Have you ever searched for information online and felt frustrated about where to look or what to search for? Numerous reference blogs and sites on the Web can be overwhelming for a small business owner like yourself. Lucky for you, here are my favorite reference websites.
Tax Knowledge
Below are tax-related agencies and services that will help your business.
IRS.gov for updated information on tax and payroll information. Yes, I know, you may think the IRS site is too complicated to use. It has gotten a lot better. Check it out and see for yourself.
Local and state websites for tax information on updated tax laws and payroll information. – They add a comment on newly passed regulations and what is required on the sign-in page so that you can see it right away.
TurboTax.com or your favorite tax preparer’s newsletter or website.
CNETMoney.com – Although their website lacks a dedicated section for small businesses, many of their tips can still help you manage your personal finances.
Bookkeeping software – It is essential to utilize bookkeeping software, rather than relying solely on a spreadsheet. While spreadsheets are great, they are limited when you want to expand your business. Using an app like FreshBooks (affiliate) or QuickBooks Online, which offer payroll services as well as managing your expenses and income, will help you immensely.
General Business Knowledge
This section is for small businesses that need general startup information.
Inc.com – I particularly like this magazine to help me look beyond what I am doing and seeing other business possibilities.
SmallBusinessTrends.com – I enjoy the social media articles on this site. But, they also have management, finance, and technology sections as well.
Entrepreneur – While they don’t have a big section on tax tips, they do have several administrative tips to help you in your business.
U.S. Small Business Administration – Visit this site to get extensive information on getting started with your business.
Pennsylvania has a Small business Assistance website – It is your one-stop shop for planning, registering, operating and growing your business in PA.
Reference Sites Sheet
While these sites are great, you may find that you also visit others on occasion. Feel free to print this reference site list to track the different websites until you become accustomed to visiting them regularly.
In the spreadsheet below, you can add the website URL in the “Blog Name” column. Then, indicate what information you would like to find on that site.
Some sites aren’t updated more than once a week or even once a month, so I added the next column. By visiting these sites frequently, you will be able to determine when they are updated. In this column, indicate what their update schedule is.
Then, add your login information and password to the spreadsheet as well. If you don’t feel comfortable adding your password, write a hint about what it is to remind you.
After creating this list on paper, add it to your browser’s bookmarks. You can also display them in the Bookmark bar. To do this, you can click through and get instructions for Google Chrome, Edge, and Firefox.
The internet is vast, making it overwhelming to find small business information. Creating a list of reference sites will give you direction on where to go and help you focus and zoom in on what you are looking for.
Please share with other small business owners. Now, it’s your turn. What is your favorite reference sites? What do you often look for? Please share it below.
Please note that the links above are affiliate links through Amazon. At no additional cost to you, I will receive affiliate fees if you click through and decide to make a purchase.
Need help with your startup business? Visit my suite of Small Business admin and support services.
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I like small business trends too, I would also recommend smartpassiveincome.com.
Great blog. Thanks for sharing.