Mike Thrift
Marketing Manager
Double-Entry Accounting: The Complete Guide for Small Business Owners
Learn how double-entry accounting works, why every transaction needs two entries, and how this 500-year-old system helps small businesses maintain accurate financial records. Includes practical examples, common mistakes, and tips for getting started.
EBITDA: What It Is, How to Calculate It, and Why Your Business Needs It
Learn what EBITDA is, how to calculate it with step-by-step examples, and why this key financial metric matters for business valuation, investor comparisons, and operational performance analysis.
Estate Planning for Small Business Owners: Protect Your Legacy and Your Business
A complete guide to estate planning for small business owners. Covers trusts, buy-sell agreements, the 2026 estate tax exemption changes, tax-smart transfer strategies, succession planning, and a practical estate planning checklist.
How AI Is Transforming Small Business Accounting in 2026
The AI accounting market has hit $10.87 billion in 2026 and 68% of U.S. small businesses are already using AI. Learn how automated categorization, intelligent reconciliation, cash flow forecasting, and agentic AI are saving business owners 5+ hours a week — plus a practical 5-step roadmap to get started.
How to Choose the Right CPA or Accountant for Your Small Business
Learn how to choose the right CPA, accountant, or bookkeeper for your small business. Compare credentials, costs ($150-$450/hr for CPAs), fee structures, and get interview questions to find the perfect financial professional.
How to Pay Yourself as a Small Business Owner: Salary vs. Owner's Draw
Learn the difference between owner's draw and salary, which method to use based on your business structure, IRS rules for reasonable compensation, and tax optimization strategies to pay yourself the right way.
Inventory Accounting Methods: FIFO, LIFO, and Weighted Average Explained
Learn the three main inventory accounting methods—FIFO, LIFO, and Weighted Average—with real examples, side-by-side comparisons, tax implications, and guidance on choosing the right method for your small business.
How to Manage Your Business Finances Through Seasonal Fluctuations
Up to 70% of businesses face seasonal revenue swings. Learn practical strategies for building cash reserves, diversifying revenue, negotiating payment terms, and creating a 12-month forecast to keep your business financially healthy year-round.
Mid-Year Financial Checkup: A Complete Guide for Small Business Owners
A step-by-step mid-year financial checkup guide for small business owners. Learn how to review financial statements, compare budget vs. actual performance, assess cash reserves, optimize taxes, and plan for a stronger second half.
Protecting Your Business Intellectual Property: A Complete Guide to Trademarks, Patents, and Copyrights
Your intangible assets may be worth more than all your physical equipment combined. Learn how to protect your business with trademarks, patents, copyrights, and trade secrets—including 2025-2026 USPTO filing costs, step-by-step strategies, and the 10 most common IP mistakes to avoid.
Small Business Retirement Plans: 401(k) vs. SEP IRA vs. SIMPLE IRA
Compare the three most popular small business retirement plans—401(k), SEP IRA, and SIMPLE IRA—with 2026 contribution limits, pros and cons, and a decision framework to find the best fit for your business.
Understanding Loan Amortization: How to Calculate and Track Your Business Loan Payments
Learn how loan amortization works, how to calculate your monthly payments, read an amortization schedule, and choose the right loan structure for your small business. Includes current 2026 rates and practical examples.