Business owners in California often overlook critical steps in estate planning. These mistakes can lead to costly delays, conflicts, and lost opportunities for their families and businesses. Mistake 1: Not Having a Formal Succession Plan. Without a formal business succession plan in place, ownership and management responsibilities may become unclear after the owner’s death, retirement,...Read More

California business owners face complex tax considerations when planning for succession. Without careful planning, taxes can significantly erode the value of your business and the wealth you intend to leave your heirs. Key Tax Considerations Federal Estate Taxes: Estates over $13.6 million (2026) may be taxed California Income Taxes: Sale or transfer of business interests...Read More

Succession planning is critical for any California business owner who wants their company to thrive beyond their involvement. Careful planning ensures continuity, protects employees, and preserves your legacy. Step 1: Identify Successors. Decide who will take over management and ownership of your business—family, partners, or outside professionals. Step 2: Establish a Buy-Sell Agreement. This legally...Read More

The internet has been a game changer for small businesses, allowing them to reach new markets, hire nonlocal talent, and compete with larger companies. Not having an online presence where customers can discover and interact with your business is now almost unthinkable. You may also have remote team members and vendor partners that are vital...Read More

Transitioning from being an employee to being self-employed is a goal of many American workers, and a growing number of workers have realized their goal in the wake of pandemic-related economic disruptions. Individuals often cite taking control of their career as a top motivating factor for being self-employed. Self-employment frequently starts as a side hustle...Read More

Small business owners will have one more item on their compliance to-do list when the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA) takes effect next year. The CTA, enacted as part of the Anti-Money Laundering Act of 2020 (AMLA), places new reporting requirements on many business entities in an effort to expose illegal activities, including the use of...Read More