Business

TIN Matching: A Critical Compliance Step Before Filing Forms 1099

🗞️TIN Matching: A Critical Compliance Step Before Filing Forms 1099

A taxpayer identification number—or TIN—is the number the IRS uses to associate income with the correct taxpayer.  Depending on the payee, it may be:– Social Security number (SSN)– Employer identification number (EIN)– Individual taxpayer identification number (ITIN) The IRS TIN Matching program allows eligible payers to confirm that a payee’s legal name and TIN combination matches IRS records

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September Is the Right Time for a Year-End Business Review

🗞️September Is the Right Time for a Year-End Business Review

The final quarter of 2026 begins in October, but effective year-end planning should start now. Waiting until December can eliminate valuable opportunities to adjust taxes, cash flow, payroll, and business decisions. Business owners should review:– Year-to-date revenue and profitability– Accounts receivable and outstanding obligations– Estimated federal tax payments– Washington B&O and sales-tax reporting– Owner compensation

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Wildfire Preparedness: Resources for Washington Families and Businesses

⚠️Wildfire Preparedness: Resources for Washington Families and Businesses

Wildfire season has had a significant impact across Washington this summer, with several communities experiencing evacuations, property damage, and poor air quality. While we hope our clients and their families remain safe, these events serve as an important reminder to prepare before disaster strikes and to know what resources are available if you are affected.

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Featured Business Opportunity: Get Your Products into Sea-Tac Airport

Featured Business Opportunity: Get Your Products into Sea-Tac Airport 

If your business produces packaged food or beverages, here’s an exciting opportunity to showcase your products at one of the nation’s busiest airports. The Port of Seattle’s SEA Sparks program is a business incubator opportunity designed for small businesses that offer pre-packaged foods and beverages not intended for immediate consumption. Selected businesses will have the opportunity

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WA DOR Penalty Relief Program for Service-Based Businesses

WA DOR Penalty Relief Program for Service-Based Businesses

The Washington State Department of Revenue (DOR) recently announced a temporary penalty relief program for businesses affected by the expansion of retail sales tax to certain services under ESSB 5814. The sales tax changes, which became effective October 1, 2025, introduced new tax obligations for many service providers. Recognizing that these changes have created confusion for some

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Have You Received a U.S. Census Bureau Annual Survey Notice?

Have You Received a U.S. Census Bureau Annual Survey Notice?

Many business owners are surprised to receive letters or emails from the U.S. Census Bureau requesting participation in the Annual Business Survey (ABS) or other economic surveys. Because these notices often arrive unexpectedly, they are sometimes mistaken for marketing solicitations or scams. In many cases, however, the request is legitimate and participation may be required. What

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Beware of "Official-Looking" Business Compliance Solicitations

Beware of “Official-Looking” Business Compliance Solicitations

As business owners, many of you receive emails, postcards, and letters regarding annual filings, corporate compliance, labor law posters, beneficial ownership reporting, business licenses, and other filing requirements. While some of these notices may advertise legitimate services, many are sent by private companies—not government agencies—and can easily be mistaken for official notices. Common Examples Business

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Reminder: Q2 2026 Estimated Tax Payments Due June 15

Reminder: Q2 2026 Estimated Tax Payments Due June 15

The second quarter estimated tax payment for tax year 2026 is due on June 15, 2026. Estimated tax payments are generally required for individuals who expect to owe at least $1,000 in federal income tax after withholding and credits. This commonly includes: – Self-employed individuals– Independent contractors– Gig workers– Rental property owners– Investors with significant income not subject to

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What Business Owners Should Know About Owner Compensation

What Business Owners Should Know About Owner Compensation

One of the most common questions business owners ask is: “What’s the best way to pay myself?”. The answer depends largely on your business structure, profitability, tax situation, and long-term financial goals. Paying yourself incorrectly can lead to tax problems, cash flow issues, or compliance concerns — especially as your business grows. Different Business Structures Handle

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