According to the tax law, you are allowed to take a tax deduction for ordinary and necessary business expenses if you are engaged in a trade or business.  The tax law calls these expenses "start-up costs". Click here for more info.

The Internal Revenue Service has many resources for business owners.  Click here for details.

Center for Non-Profit Management

www.cnm.org

Take 5 Steps to Cut your 2006 Tax Bill.

Tax & business letter from Rayburn, Betts & Bates, P.C.

Now's the time to act if you want to reduce your 2006 tax bill.  Here are five suggestions.

1.  Sell loser stocks to offset gains.

2.  Make full use of retirement plans.

3.  Give stocks to kids or grandkids.

4.  Plan year-end equipment purchases.

5.  Postpone income and speed up deductions.

These are only a few steps you can take to reduce your tax bill.  To discuss the best moves in your situation, contact Rayburn, Betts & Bates, P.C. at (615)661-7878.

As one of our newest members, introduces the Business Partnership Grant to area businesses.  The grant program is available to help local businesses that grant tuition assistance to their employees.  National will contribute up to $1 for every $3 invested by businesses towards tuition and fees incurred by their employees while enrolled at National.  Please contact Mike Gasz, at (615) 365-9657 to discuss the program with you at your business and at your convenience. 

Logo Sign Program

The State of Tennessee Department of Transportation would like to introduce their Logo Sign Program.  Applicants must meet all criteria expressed in rules governing participation in the TDOT Interstate Sign Advertisement Program.  Note:  For business to be eligible for participation, the attraction claimed must be the business's primary purpose (51% or greater) and must be of particular interest to tourists.  Inquiries concerning the eligibility requirements and general administration of the Tennessee's Tourist Oriented Directional Sign Program may be directed to:  Tennessee Department of Transportation - Maintenance Division - Suite 400 - James K. Polk Building - 505 Deaderick Street - Nashville, TN  37243-0333, Phone 615-741-2877 or Fax:  615-741-3169.

Click the sign for more information.

The website at www.tennessee.gov offers valuable information including forms needed and filing instructions on starting a business in Tennessee.  Click here to go directly to the Business Information.

The Small Business Administration  is also a good resource:  www.sba.gov