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IN MANY organizations, productivity is flat while stress and burnout are climbing. While many blame the unmanageable workload, the problem is really the overwhelming thoughtload. Thoughtload is the invisible tax on performance and productivity that comes from a treacherous triad of rising cognitive demands, escalating emotional burdens, and declining energy reserves. As thoughtload increases, it’s less likely that team members will be productive, creative, or collaborative. Managers need to support their teams in reducing each component of thoughtload, but first, they need to address their own chaotic experience. It’s impossible to manage the madness if you’re creating it. Focus Your Distracted Attention While the endgame is for you to reduce your team’s thoughtload, you cannot manage the madness if you’re caught up in it. Just think of all the ways your thoughtload impacts your team members. If your attention is diluted across a vast range of issues and initiatives, your team won’t know what to prioritize. If you’re nervous, impatient, demoralized, or hostile, you’ll pass that emotionality on to your people. If you’re run down, exhausted, and uninspired, how do you expect your direct reports to have pep in their step? You need to tackle your thoughtload first. But where to start, given that your attention, emotions, and energy are so intimately intertwined? I always tackle attention first, because you have no hope of taming emotions or restoring energy if you don’t manage your attention. The Achievable Ambition: Focused and Flowing Before we talk about how to effectively focus your attention, let’s agree on what “good focus” would look like. I’m not promising you that you can achieve Zen master status, but I’m promising you that you can create a world where you experience periods of deep concentration, leading to productive work and a sense of accomplishment. What if you could experience this: Delivering multiple high-quality pieces of work you're proud of each week Feeling the satisfaction of accomplishing something worthwhile Creating enough slack to accommodate urgent issues and disruptions to your plans Strengthening connections and engaging fully in conversations at work and home Falling asleep quickly because the intrusive thoughts have simmered down Science Synopsis What’s going on in your body and mind when your attention is distracted? To put it simply, your brain is a mono-tasker, not a multi-tasker. For the most part, you can pay attention to only one thing at a time. Sure, you can walk and chew gum, but that’s because you don’t need to pay conscious attention to do either. If you switch out gum chewing for walking and texting, you’ll get a different result. Your attention goes to texting, not walking, and you’re okay until there’s a bump on the sidewalk. While you feel like you’re multitasking, what you’re actually doing is toggling—switching your attention from one thing to the other. It turns out that toggling is inefficient: Your productivity decreases It takes longer to complete both tasks The quality of your task suffers as well And multitasking doesn’t just slow you down; it gets you down. Attempts to multitask are associated with increased stress, heightened anxiety, and even temporary depressive symptoms. When it comes to thoughtload, multitasking is part of a vicious cycle. When you’re anxious about how much you have to do, you tend to multitask to alleviate anxiety. Ironically, instead of helping you plough through more work, multi-tasking can make you less productive, leaving you with more to do, which in turn makes you even more stressed. Brutal! If multitasking doesn’t work, why do we keep attempting it? That’s another aspect of the vicious cycle. The more tired and overwhelmed you are (the energy component of thoughtload), the poorer your brain is at calibrating what you should attend to and what you should ignore. Instead of focusing on the most important thing, you prioritize based on more primal criteria like recency (What was the latest notification to ping?), fear (Who’s the scariest person breathing down your neck?), or comfort (What’s the easiest or most fun thing you could strike off your to-do list?) When you make one of these suboptimal prioritization decisions, you dig yourself into a deeper hole. Bad attention choices lead to poor outcomes for your emotions and your energy. A Better Alternative What does science tell us about a better alternative? Most of us work more effectively when we focus on one thing at a time and work uninterrupted for 30 to 45 minutes. Between blocks, we need a 5- or 10-minute rest to reset, and then we’re able to do another sprint. After two or three blocks, we need a longer break. One series of studies showed a range in the most productive durations with sprints ranging from 52 to 112 minutes with the accompanying rests of between 17 and 26 minutes. Working this way, in a series of sprints and rests, we get more done, with higher quality, and less stress. But before you start hacking productivity like a tech bro and thinking that your goal should be eight (or eighteen) hours a day of uninterrupted, heads-down focused productivity, note that you’re probably built for at most four hours a day of this quality of work. Your brain doesn’t stay at peak performance for longer than that. Another thing to understand about your brain is that different tasks require different brain processes. Task batching, that is grouping similar activities, reduces the cost of switching and decreases errors. When speed is the goal, put like with like. In contrast, to increase creativity or provide some mental relief, deliberately switch tasks to something with an entirely different vibe. Armed with that understanding of the value of focus, let’s talk about what you can do to reduce your thoughtload by managing your attention. Here’s what I’ve seen when it comes to your focal point: Focus on activity, become a busy person. Focus on outputs, become a productive person. Focus on outcomes, become an effective person. Sure, being productive is better than being busy, but if your productivity isn’t leading to changes in your outcomes, what’s it worth? Being effective is what it’s all about. When you pay attention to being effective, you don’t need to be as productive because all those things you were churning out that weren’t making a dent aren’t required anymore. When you don’t need to be as productive, you can be less busy because fewer outputs mean fewer tasks. That’s the first step in managing your thoughtload—choosing your quest and aligning your attention to accomplish it. Once it’s clear, find a way to keep your quest top of mind. The work to confront how your environment and even your own delusions direct your attention to all the wrong things can be intense and excruciating. And it’s not lost on me that your boss, who is slagging you for not making more progress, is the person most likely to be swamping you with low-value activities. (If that’s the case, your boss needs this process as much as you do. Work through it together.) You have things to accomplish. Real things. Meaningful things. The better defined they are, the easier it is to see what’s essential versus what’s trivial and wasteful. When you do more of the former and less of the latter, your team will benefit and both you and your boss will get kudos. * * * Liane Davey has spent more than 25 years researching and advising teams on how to perform at their best. Known as the “teamwork doctor,” she works with teams from the frontlines to the boardroom, across industries and around the world, from Boston to Bangkok. Through her work with hundreds of teams, including 26 Global Fortune 500 companies (and counting), she has developed a practical, research-backed approach to solving the challenges that prevent teams from working effectively together. Her new book, Thoughtload: Manage the Madness and Free Your Team to Do Great Work, tackles today’s most pressing management challenges: over-burdened systems, burned-out teams, and plateauing results. * * * Follow us on Instagram and X for additional leadership and personal development ideas. * * * View the full article

British officials acknowledge the legislation had run out of time to proceed to the statute book View the full article

We may earn a commission from links on this page. Google has packed its flagship Pixel phones with a long list of useful features for everything from privacy to productivity, and rolls out more with its frequent Pixel Drop updates. It can be hard to keep up with all that's available—plus, many of the best features are disabled by default. If you have one of Google's smartphones, here are 10 ways to maximize everything your Pixel has to offer. Google Pixel 10a (128GB) $499.00 at Amazon Shop Now Shop Now $499.00 at Amazon Use App Pinning to keep people from snooping on your phoneBefore you hand your Pixel over to someone else—whether you're letting a stranger make a call or showing photos to a friend—enable app pinning to prevent that person from navigating around your device. This privacy feature keeps users in the pinned app so they can't open your messages, snoop your search history, or find other personal information. The only way to escape a pinned app is with your PIN, pattern, or password. To pin an app, go to Settings > Security or Security & location > Advanced > App pinning and toggle on Use app pinning and Ask for PIN before unpinning. Then, open the app you want to pin, swipe and hold to open your Overview, tap the app's icon, and tap "Pin." Use "Private Space" to hide sensitive dataAnother way to keep your personal information away from prying eyes is by placing it in a Private Space—a hidden section of your Pixel that requires separate authentication to open. Private Space holds sensitive apps (akin to having a separate phone within your phone) and hides them from quick search, launcher, and recent views. Private Space also disables foreground and background activities, including notifications. To set up Private Space, go to Settings > Security & privacy > Private space and either authenticate with your device screen lock PIN or set up a new PIN if you don't have one. Tap Set up > Got it and follow the prompts to set up a new lock for the space. You can either add apps when Private Space is open (tap Install) or touch and hold an app then tap Install app in Private space. Use Circle to Search for live translation while you scrollAndroid's AI-powered Circle to Search tool lets you search within an app simply by circling, highlighting, or tapping an image, text, or video. It can also translate text on websites and social media posts continuously as you scroll down a page or between posts without any additional input or having to relaunch the feature. To activate translation, long press the home button or navigation bar to launch Circle to Search, then tap the Translate icon > Scroll and translate. Use Hold for Me for customer service callsDon't waste hours of your life on hold with customer service when your Pixel can do it for you. With Hold for Me, Call Assist will hang out with the elevator music, detect when a representative is on the line, and alert you that it's time to pick up the call. To enable Hold for Me, open your Phone app and go to More > Settings > Hold for Me. You'll also have to turn the feature on for each call—when you're placed on hold, tap Hold for me > Start. When the "Someone's waiting to talk to you" prompt appears, tap Return to call. Note that Hold for Me is available for users in Australia, Canada, Japan, the UK, and the U.S. Use "Take a Message" for real-time missed call transcriptsYour Pixel can also help manage your missed and declined calls with Take a Message, a voicemail alternative that shows you a real-time transcript on your home screen. This allows you to screen the call and decide whether to pick up before the message is complete—you can join the call in progress at any time. The feature also creates AI-generated call notes and next steps (such as reminders or a single click to return the call). According to Android Authority, custom Take a Message greetings for individual callers may also be in the works. To enable this feature, open your Phone app and tap More > Settings > Take a Message and toggle the setting on. Take a Message is supported on Pixel 6 and higher in Australia, Canada, Ireland, the UK, and the U.S. Use Quick Tap to turn the back of your Pixel into a buttonThere is a whole host of gestures you can set up on your Pixel to check notifications, find and open apps, or activate Google Assistant. Quick Tap is one such option that turns the back of your phone into a "button" that can be customized to run a number of different actions with a double tap. Taking a screenshot and activating the flashlight are common ones, but people also use Quick Tap to launch things like Google Lens, Wallet, or Snapchat. Connect your Pixel to an external monitor with desktop modeGoogle recently rolled out a feature for all users on Pixel 8 and newer that allows you to connect your device to an external monitor, essentially turning it into a desktop PC. Simply plug your phone in via USB-C, and you'll get apps in moveable windows plus an onscreen dock. You'll likely want to add a few PC peripherals (Bluetooth keyboard and mouse) to your arsenal if you don't already have them to maximize the desktop experience. Use your Pixel as a webcamWhen plugged into your computer (or TV, tablet, or laptop with USB Video Class support), your Pixel also doubles as a webcam. All you need is a data-supported USB cable. Tap the notification labeled Charging this device through USB and select "Webcam" under the Use USB for menu. You can still use your phone as normal when in webcam mode, though the stream will pause if you get a video call or open an app that uses the camera. Note that Pixels cannot be used as webcams for other Pixels. Enable advanced voice typing for seamless voice-to-textStandard voice-to-text features get the job done when you need to talk instead of type, but Pixel's on-device AI takes voice typing up a notch, capturing speech (including grammar and punctuation) quickly and accurately. Gboard on Pixel is "context aware," meaning it can understand voice commands and corrections, place punctuation based on natural speech patterns, and even insert emojis. You must enable advanced voice typing (available on Pixel 6 and up) in any app you can type with. Tap where you enter text, then select Settings > Voice typing at the top of the keyboard. Then, toggle Advanced voice typing features on. Optimize battery life with adaptive preferencesGetting your phone's battery to last as long as possible requires some adjustments. Pixel has a handful of adaptive settings that use AI to identify your usage patterns and minimize power requirements accordingly. Adaptive Battery (under Settings > Battery > Battery Saver) reduces background power to apps you use less, while Adaptive Brightness (Settings > Display > Adaptive Brightness) automatically adjusts screen brightness based on context. Finally, Adaptive Connectivity will switch between 5G networks, which require more power, and 4G LTE depending on whether you're streaming or just enough speed for basic functions. View the full article

If you’re looking for the best accounting software sales right now, there are several options customized for small businesses. FreshBooks and Xero offer competitive pricing, starting at around $21 and $20 per month, respectively. If you prefer a free option, Wave Accounting provides crucial features without any cost. Each software has its unique strengths and weaknesses, so comprehending their offerings can help you make an informed decision. What’s right for your business might surprise you. Key Takeaways FreshBooks offers a starting price of $21/month, with additional users at $11, perfect for service-based businesses. Xero’s competitive starter plan is available at $20/month, providing essential features for small businesses. Wave Accounting provides free basic invoicing and expense tools, ideal for freelancers and very small businesses. Zoho Books starts at $15/month and frequently runs promotions, making it affordable for small to medium-sized businesses. QuickBooks Online begins at $38.20/month after a free trial, featuring extensive tools for various business sizes. Current Deals on Popular Accounting Software When you’re looking for accounting software, it’s vital to evaluate current deals that can save you money during providing the features your business needs. FreshBooks starts at $21 per month, with an additional $11 for each added user, making it ideal for service-based businesses. Xero offers a competitive starter plan at around $20 monthly, ensuring fundamental accounting features for small businesses. If you’re a freelancer or very small business, Wave Accounting‘s free basic features allow you to manage invoicing and expenses without any financial commitment. Zoho Books begins at $15 per month, frequently running promotions, making it a thorough option for small to medium-sized businesses. Finally, QuickBooks Online, rated highly for its capabilities, starts at $38.20 after a free trial, catering to various business sizes. Exploring these accounting software sales will help integrate automated accounting systems into your operations efficiently. Top Features to Look for in Accounting Software When choosing accounting software, a user-friendly interface is crucial, as it guarantees you can navigate the system with ease and efficiency. Automation capabilities furthermore play a significant role, helping you reduce manual tasks like invoicing and reconciliation, which saves time and minimizes errors. User-Friendly Interface A user-friendly interface in accounting software is vital for efficiently managing your finances, as it allows you to navigate features intuitively without extensive training. Look for software that provides clear organization and easy navigation, helping you manage your finances with minimal hassle. Customizable dashboards are fundamental; they display key financial metrics at a glance, enabling you to focus on what’s relevant for your business. Streamlined invoicing and expense tracking tools boost efficiency by reducing time spent on manual data entry. Furthermore, robust customer support options, including tutorials and responsive assistance, guarantee that you can quickly resolve any issues, maximizing the software’s capabilities. Prioritizing these features can greatly improve your overall user experience. Automation Capabilities Automation capabilities in accounting software play a crucial role in enhancing efficiency and accuracy in financial management. By streamlining routine tasks like invoicing, accounts payable, and reconciliation, these features reduce manual errors and save you valuable time. For instance, Intuit QuickBooks Online offers automated bank feeds that sync your transactions in real-time, making financial management smoother. Similarly, Xero utilizes AI-driven tools to simplify bookkeeping and automate workflows, providing insights through real-time data analytics. If you’re focused on accounts payable, Tipalti‘s automation features allow for efficient vendor payment management with automated invoice handling and approval workflows. Comparison of Pricing Plans When comparing pricing plans for accounting software, it’s important to contemplate both the initial costs and any additional fees for extra users or features. For example, FreshBooks starts at $21 per month, with an extra $11 for each added user. Whereas Wave Accounting offers free tools, though it may not meet the needs of larger businesses. Pricing Structures Overview Grasping the pricing structures of various accounting software options can help you make an informed decision that aligns with your business needs. Here’s a quick overview of some popular choices: FreshBooks: Starts at $21/month, plus $11 for each additional user, ideal for small businesses. Xero: Pricing ranges from $20/month for the Starter plan to $47/month for premium features. Wave Accounting: Offers free accounting and invoicing tools, perfect for freelancers and very small businesses. Additionally, QuickBooks Online starts at $38.20/month after a free trial, whereas Zoho Books begins at $15/month, providing crucial features for small to medium-sized businesses. Grasping these pricing structures can guide you toward the best software for your requirements. Value for Money Analysis Evaluating the value for money in accounting software is crucial for ensuring you choose a plan that meets your budgeting needs during still offering fundamental features. FreshBooks starts at $21 monthly, charging an additional $11 for each extra user, making it ideal for service-based businesses needing simple invoicing. Intuit QuickBooks Online, starting at $38.20 after a free trial, provides extensive tools suitable for various business sizes. Xero’s starter plan begins at $20, offering crucial bookkeeping and multi-currency support. Wave Accounting stands out with free tools, perfect for freelancers, but lacks advanced features. Zoho Books, priced from $15, integrates well with other applications, balancing affordability with functionality for small to medium-sized businesses, making it a strong contender. Recommendations for Small Business Needs Selecting the right accounting software is crucial for small businesses looking to streamline their financial processes and improve efficiency. Here are a few customized recommendations based on varying needs: FreshBooks: Ideal for service-based businesses, it starts at $21/month and boasts a user-friendly interface, rated 4.9 for ease of use. Intuit QuickBooks Online: Perfect for SMBs with complex accounting requirements, starting at $38.20/month and rated 4.5 for outstanding performance. Wave Accounting: A free option suitable for freelancers and very small businesses, it’s rated 4.0 for its approachable design and invoicing capabilities. Each of these options caters to different business needs, ensuring you can find the right fit for your specific circumstances, whether you require all-encompassing tools or a straightforward invoicing solution. Pros and Cons of Each Software When you’re considering accounting software for your small business, grasping the pros and cons of each option can help you make an informed choice. Xero offers excellent user experience and advanced features, but you’ll face added costs for team members and limited inventory tracking. FreshBooks has a great dashboard and detailed invoicing forms, yet it’s only available on Windows and features some outdated UI elements. Sage 50 Accounting is user-friendly and suitable for small businesses, even though it lacks time tracking and project management options. Wave provides flexibility across various accounting needs, but it can be complex for smaller businesses and restricts time tracking to project-based work. Finally, Patriot Software Accounting features an excellent interface and ease of use, but it has minimal reporting capabilities and lacks vendor or bill management features. Weigh these pros and cons to find the best fit for your business. Tips for Choosing the Right Accounting Solution Choosing the right accounting solution can greatly impact your business’s financial health and operational efficiency. To make an informed decision, consider these key factors: Assess your business size and complexity to determine if you need basic or extensive solutions. Identify the specific features you need, such as invoicing, expense tracking, or inventory management. Evaluate pricing structures, noting free plans or those starting at $15-$38 per month. Make sure the software integrates smoothly with your existing tools, like payment processors or e-commerce platforms, to improve workflow. Furthermore, read user reviews and ratings to gauge the software’s reliability and support quality. For instance, QuickBooks Online boasts a 4.5 rating, while FreshBooks shines with a 4.9 for ease of use. Taking the time to analyze these aspects will help you select the best accounting solution customized to your business needs. Frequently Asked Questions What Is the Most Widely Used Accounting Software? The most widely used accounting software is Intuit QuickBooks Online, particularly favored by small to medium-sized businesses. Its thorough features and customizability make it a strong choice. FreshBooks is popular among service-based businesses for its user-friendly interface. Xero has gained traction for its multi-user access and AI integrations. Wave Accounting appeals to freelancers and very small businesses with its free features, whereas Sage 50 Accounting offers robust desktop capabilities for advanced needs. What Software Do Big 4 Accounting Firms Use? The Deloitte, PwC, EY, and KPMG utilize specialized software to improve their operations. Deloitte uses “Audit Command Language” for data analysis, whereas PwC‘s “Halo” automates audit processes with advanced analytics. EY relies on the “EY Canvas” platform, which integrates project management tools for smoother workflows. KPMG employs “KPMG Clara,” a cloud-based solution that leverages data analytics and AI to boost audit efficiency. Each firm’s software is customized to meet their unique auditing and consulting needs. Is Xero or Quickbooks Better? When deciding between Xero and QuickBooks, consider your specific needs. QuickBooks Online, rated 4.5, offers extensive reporting and deep customizability, ideal for complex SMB accounting. Conversely, Xero, rated 4.0, shines in user experience with its multiuser access and AI features, perfect for collaborative small businesses. Pricing likewise differs; QuickBooks starts at $38.20/month post-trial, whereas Xero’s starter plan is more budget-friendly at $20/month, making it a better option for cost-conscious users. What Is the Best Accounting Software in 2025? In 2025, the best accounting software varies based on your needs. QuickBooks Online performs exceptionally for complex accounting tasks, whereas FreshBooks shines for service-oriented businesses because of its user-friendly design. Xero is great for teams, offering automated tools that boost efficiency. If you need robust desktop solutions, Sage 50 is solid for inventory management. For freelancers, Wave Accounting provides crucial services for free, even if some features come with charges. Choose based on your specific requirements. Conclusion In conclusion, choosing the right accounting software involves examining current deals, features, and pricing plans customized to your business needs. Whether you lean in the direction of affordable options like Wave Accounting or require more extensive tools from QuickBooks Online, comprehending the pros and cons of each can help you make an informed decision. By evaluating your specific requirements and budget, you can select the accounting solution that best supports your financial management goals, ensuring efficiency and accuracy in your operations. Image via Google Gemini and ArtSmart This article, "Best Accounting Software Sales Right Now?" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

We may earn a commission from links on this page. Apple Maps may not be everyone's top choice for navigation—even those committed to the Apple ecosystem—but the app has come a long way since it's initial rocky rollout, and has plenty of features that make it worth using. Beyond the basics, you'll also want to consider some of its lesser-known settings to get the most out of Apple Maps on both mobile and desktop. Enable "Visited Places" to save locations (even if you didn't use Maps to get there) "Visited Places" is a new feature with iOS 26 that passively tracks your location and stores places you go—even if you don't use Maps to get there. If you want to keep tabs on your previous pit stops, you can view them later in the "Places" menu (tap Places > Visited Places when you open Maps). The data is stored on your synced devices and is encrypted end to end, so even though your device is technically tracking you, you're the only one who can access the information. If you prefer that it didn't, you can toggle the feature off and on under Settings > Apps > Maps > Location. You can also delete locations by tapping Clear History in the Visited Places list. Download offline maps for when you’re out of serviceOffline maps are critical for navigation when you don't have a cellular or wifi connection. Apple introduced support for offline maps with iOS 17, which lets you download a map section complete with place cards, turn-by-turn directions for multiple transit types, and estimated time of arrival. To save a map for offline use, touch and hold on the map until a pin marker appears, then tap "Download." Select the area, then tap "Download again." To access it later, tap your profile photo or initials and open the Offline Maps menu. You can also edit the name and area or delete saved maps. Add and organize places of interest in a shareable guideApple Maps has a built-in planning feature that allows you to save locations to a collection for future reference. You can share these guides with others, too. For example, you could put together lists of favorite places or sightseeing itineraries for a group trip. To start a guide, open "Your Guides" (there will already be a "Favorites" collection) and tap the "plus" sign to create a new collection. You can add locations from place cards by tapping the three horizontal dots > Add to Guides and share using the Share icon. Save your parking location so you never lose your carIf you tend to forget where you leave your car in big and busy parking lots, Apple Maps can save the location for you. The app drops a pin when you disconnect your device from your car's Bluetooth or CarPlay, but you'll have to set it up first. You'll need to have Location Services and Significant Locations turned on (under Privacy & Security > Location Services > System Services) and enable "Show Parked Location" under Settings > Apps > Maps. When you need to get back to your vehicle, choose "Parked Car" below Siri Suggestions in Maps. Plan hikes in parks and on trailsMaps isn't the best app out there for outdoor adventuring, but it does have topographical maps and detailed hiking routes for U.S. national parks, and you can even download them for offline use. Simply search a national park and scroll down to the "Hikes" section on the info card to browse, or type “hikes in [national park name]” to bring up a list you can filter by length, route type, and elevation gain. When you select a hike, tap "Add to Routes" and toggle "Download Route" on. Create custom walking and hiking routesYou can also make your own routes on roads, paths, and trails and save them to Apple Maps to return to later. To start a custom route, such as a city tour or road run, drop a pin on the map, then tap the three horizontal dots followed by "Create a Custom Route." Tap other points on the map to connect them, then select whether to complete your trip by going in reverse or closing the loop. Finally, tap "Save Route," and you'll have a custom path to follow whenever you'd like. Send directions from your Mac to your iPhoneSome things are easier to do on desktop, like creating a multi-stop route and selecting the best turn-by-turn directions. But what happens when you want to use those directions on your iPhone? Maps actually has two options for sending directions from your Mac to your iPhone. The first is to share directly; the other is to use Continuity, which allows you to start on one device and pick up on the other. Either way, you'll need to search a location and click "Directions," then choose your preferred route from the suggestions. You can adjust your mode of transportation and starting and ending points as needed. Click the "Info" icon, then tap "Share" below the turn-by-turn list. Now, select "Send to iPhone," which will deliver a notification to your device. Tap this, and Apple Maps will launch on your iPhone with the directions loaded. Note that you'll need to have time-sensitive notifications and badge alerts on your Lock Screen enabled for this to work. With Continuity, you can load directions on Maps on your Mac, then open the app switcher on your iPhone and tap the Apple Maps link at the bottom. To make sure this works for you, both your Mac and iPhone should be signed into iCloud with the same Apple Account, wifi and Bluetooth should be enabled on both, and "Handoff" should be turned on—though Apple says it is by default. MacBook Neo (256 GB) $599.00 at Amazon Shop Now Shop Now $599.00 at Amazon Use this setting to change your preferred mode of transportationIf you always use Apple Maps for one transportation type, you can change your preferences so the app will show routes and estimated travel times for that method first. For example, if you don't own a car, you probably don't need to see driving directions by default—you can choose walking, cycling, or public transit as alternatives. Change this under Settings > Maps > Preferred Type of Travel. Use this setting to avoid highways, hills, and stairsMaps may give you the turn-by-turn directions it deems the best, but that doesn't mean it's the best route for you. You can tell the app to avoid certain types of roads or obstacles along your route, such as highways, toll roads, and busy streets. For cycling directions, you can try to avoid hills, and for walking, stairs. On the Directions pane, tap "Avoid" and toggle these features on or off. Compare ride-share pricing from Lyft and Uber without leaving the appMaps has integrations with ride-sharing apps like Lyft and Uber, so you can check for available rides to your destination and compare prices without leaving the app. (You can't book in Maps, though. You'll be redirected to the ride-share app once you select your ride.) After searching for a location, tap Directions and select the ride-share icon on the far right. Note that you must be logged into ride-share services on your device for the integration to work. View the full article

Amazon Prime members in the US can regularly save on gas, but many might not even know it. Now might be the best time to jump on it—for a limited time only, fuel savings can double. The savings perk dates back to October 2024, when Amazon partnered with, BP’s rewards and fueling app earnify, allowing Prime members save 10 cents a gallon. Now, from April 3 to May 29, members can double the savings once a week on Fuel-Up Fridays. To start saving, Amazon Prime members need to activate the perk and must link their accounts to earnify. Then, members can find the 7,500 participating BP, Amoco, Thorntons, and AM/PM gas stations and fuel up there. “You can then apply the discount at any participating station by simply entering your phone number at the pump or using the earnify app,” the Amazon Prime website explains. Prime members registered with earnify are always eligible for savings. When registered to earnify, which is free, members receive a baseline saving of 5 cents, which is then stacked with 5 cents for being a Prime member, totaling 10 cents in savings for every gallon of gas purchased at participating gas stations. According to the company, members using the perk can save up to $70 a year on fuel costs thanks to the promotion. During the promotional period, Prime members will be able to stack an additional 10 cents per gallon, totaling 20 cents off per gallon. While the promotional offer only applies to one purchase on Fridays, the gas discount can be shared with an additional person over 18 by setting up an Amazon Family account. This allows up to two cars to be filled up at a discount during the promotional period. “That means that households can save a combined $0.40 per gallon across two fuel transactions made each Friday, helping families stretch their budgets even further,” Vice President of Amazon Prime Jamil Ghani said in a blogpost about the offer. Fuel-Up Friday is not Amazon’s first promotional fuel savings event. Last year, Amazon rolled out another 20 cent per gallon promotion for a limited time in June. View the full article

The best project management tool isn't the same for every PM — but the debate reveals something deeper than software preferences. From Asana loyalists to tool agnostics, seasoned PMs share what actually keeps their projects on track. The post The One Project Management Tool I Would Never Give Up appeared first on The Digital Project Manager. View the full article

Mythos model was able to detect critical software vulnerabilities that were missed by legacy systemsView the full article

We may earn a commission from links on this page. If you’re grossed out by the idea that you might be bitten by a tick this year (chances are good, to be honest), now is the time to get yourself a bottle of permethrin spray. Permethrin-treating your shoes and pants is one of the simplest ways to set up a barrier between hungry ticks and your delicious, blood-filled flesh. Repel Permethrin Clothing & Gear Insect Repellent, 6.5 fl oz $4.97 at Amazon $5.99 Save $1.02 Shop Now Shop Now $4.97 at Amazon $5.99 Save $1.02 Ticks need to spend time in dirt or leaf litter to avoid drying out, so they hang out close to the ground. They find us by climbing a stalk of grass and reaching out with their little legs when we walk by. (They'll settle for a deer, rabbit, or mouse instead of a person—they're not picky.) Once they find a warm body, they crawl upwards. So if you want to avoid tick bites, the most important places to protect yourself are roughly from the knees down. You probably only have one or two pairs of shoes that you tend to wear in tall grass (hiking boots, sneakers, maybe work boots), so applying a long-lasting layer of permethrin to your shoes will go a long way toward protecting you all summer. You can add to that protection by using permethrin on your socks, pants, and other clothing and gear—like tents and backpacks, if you go camping. Bug spray for your skin (containing an effective active ingredient like DEET) is a separate item, but it’s a good defense, too. Bonus: Permethrin and DEET also protect against mosquitoes. What is permethrin and how does it work?Permethrin is an insecticide that was originally derived from the chrysanthemum flower, but the stuff you can buy today is a synthetic version. It’s safe for people and pets unless you somehow manage to ingest, inhale, or absorb a large amount of it. Please note that permethrin spray is intended for use on clothing and objects, and not on skin. It can irritate skin, and our skin can actually break down the chemicals in the repellent, rendering it useless. But on shoes and clothing, permethrin is great. When ticks are exposed to it, even for a very short time, they have difficulty walking and moving, and are probably unable to bite. Lab tests show that ticks, normally good climbers, tend to fall off of permethrin-treated clothing. Mosquitoes, similarly, can be killed or incapacitated by permethrin on clothing. Permethrin shouldn’t be your only defense against ticks (or mosquitoes); a repellent spray on your skin is an important second layer of protection. But it’s a huge help, especially for those times you’re just stepping out into the backyard, or when you forget the bug spray until you’re already deep in the woods. How to apply permethrin to your shoes, clothes, and camping gearOne of permethrin’s most convenient features is that it can stick to clothing for weeks or even months, despite multiple washings. You can also buy clothes that are already treated with permethrin; just check camping gear suppliers. But you can also do it yourself. Buy a bottle of permethrin spray that contains 0.5% permethrin. This is an EPA-registered pesticide, and it will come with detailed instructions on the label. Here are a few options: If you just need to treat a pair or two of shoes: Repel permethrin clothing & gear spray, 6.5 ounce aerosol spray can If you’ve got a ton of camping gear to treat: Sawyer Premium permethrin insect repellent, 24 ounces with a trigger spray To save you some spraying: BugsAway permethrin-treated hiking socks (the protection lasts for 70 washes) Basically, you’ll want to go outdoors (or into a well-ventilated area) and lay your clothing out flat. For shoes, remove the laces and open the shoes up as much as possible. Then spray enough of the permethrin to get the fabric visibly wet, and allow it to fully dry before you wear it. Besides shoes and clothes, you can also treat tents, backpacks, hats, and other items. Pay attention to how long the protection will last. The label may say something like six weeks or six washings, whichever comes first. Don’t forget to reapply when time is up. View the full article

Like many parents, I know well the pain of my Roblox-addicted child asking me to trade my real money for fake money he can use to buy pretend items in a digital video game. So when Roblox announced the April 30 launch of Roblox Plus, a monthly subscription service with perks that could net us a 20% discount on all the digital items, my interest was piqued. But is Roblox Plus actually worth it? Let's do some math. What do you get with Roblox Plus?As noted in today's announcement on the Roblox website, once it launches at the end of this month, the primary benefit of Roblox Plus will be a discount on items purchased with Robux, the platform's in-game currency. Your monthly subscription won't actually come with any Robux (yet, anyway—more on that in a bit), but it does come with the promise that you'll spend less real cash on Robux going forward. Immediately upon enrolling, Roblox Plus members will receive an immediate 10% Robux discount on all in-game purchases. Once you've been a member for three consecutive months, that discount will increase to 20%. You'll also get some other, less tangible benefits: Free private servers. No longer will you need mingle with the Roblox rabble: a membership will net you a free private server for every game. (My son informs me that most games have free private servers already, so the benefit here is questionable.) Transfer Robux without paying a fee. Apparently right now you have to pay a transaction fee if you want to give Robux in your account to another player. Roblux Plus will eliminate that fee. (Robux says there are safeguards in place requiring parental approval for child accounts to send Robux or receive Robux from others.) Trade or resell avatar items. Avatar upgrades are usually one-time purchases, but Roblox Plus members will be able to trade or resell them (probably at a steep loss, I'm guessing). Publish and sell avatar items. Roblox Plus members will also be able to design and sell their own avatar items on Roblox Marketplace, potentially earning commissions up to 70%. (This was possible before, so I assume the benefit is bypassing the typical 300 Robux upload fee.) A "distinct profile badge." Oh big wow. How much does Roblox Plus cost?Roblox Plus will cost you $4.99 per month, the same price as the entry-level tier of Roblox Premium, which nets you 450 Robux per month. a 10% bonus when you buy additional Robux, and some other perks like item trading. A basic Roblox Plus membership doesn't include any Robux. However, the announcement indicates that in the future, Roblox will launch Roblox Plus bundles that will roll in Robux as well—in tiers of 500, 1,000, or 2,000—but pricing for those has yet to be announced. It's "convenient way to pay once for both Roblox Plus and monthly Robux," the platform says. Very exciting! Is Roblox Plus worth it?While Roblox Plus could add new benefits in the future, as it stands, the easiest way to judge whether it's worth it is to do some basic math: In order to recoup the $5 a month membership cost, you'll need to regularly spend at least $25 worth of Robux per month on in-game purchases just to break even—and that's after you've already been a member for three months, doubling your discount from 10% to 20%. (Those first two months, you'll need to spend $50 worth of Robux if you want to net to zero.) Of course, the math gets much more complicated if you pair a Roblox Premium membership (which gets you a 10% bonus when you buy Robux) and a Roblox Plus membership, but that equation will probably become moot with the launch of the aforementioned Roblox Plus bundles. Personally, I won't be signing my kid up anytime soon. He doesn't care about free servers or trading avatar items, and thankfully we aren't spending anywhere near $25 per month on Robux. Most months, anyway. View the full article

Frugal founders are often praised for trying to stay within budget. But when the founder happens to be the daughter of one of the world’s richest people, the expectations seem to be different. In a viral post on Thursday that has sparked a debate over fair pay for creators and the power dynamics of negotiations, a lifestyle influencer posted on X what appeared to be a screenshot of a conversation with Phoebe Gates, cofounder of AI shopping agent startup Phia, and the youngest daughter of billionaires Bill Gates and Melinda French Gates. “When a billionaire’s daughter says you’re ‘out of budget’ Girl, pls,” the post read. The conversation allegedly showed Gates declining the content creator’s user-generated-content rate of $4,000, saying it was “just super out of budget for us right now,” given that Phia is an early-stage startup. Instead, Gates allegedly offered $400. Fast Company reached out to Phia for comment. But while the original post was meant to call out Gates, users flocked to defend the young founder instead. “The fact she’s not wasting investor capital and actually hustling for UGC [user-generated content] herself is actually a good thing. Not sure what your post is trying to prove,” Nikita Bier, head of product at X, said via X. “You don’t get wealthy by going over budget just because you have it to spend,” another commenter added. In fact, many users echoed the sentiment, questioning whether Gates’s business decisions should be judged through the size of her father’s wallet. The 23-year-old and her cofounder, her Stanford University roommate Sophia Kianni, recently raised $35 million in Series A funding for the AI company now valued at around $180 million. Despite her billionaire lineage, Gates’s parents have not invested in the company. “She respectfully declined,” one X user wrote. “Just because her dad’s rich doesn’t mean she shouldn’t run a business properly.” But another influencer who was also allegedly contacted by Gates argued that the issue is not about the 23-year-old, but rather about a “broader pattern: wealthy founders leveraging power and proximity to wealth to secure free or discounted labor,” she argued on Threads. The Threads user wrote that she had been contacted by Gates over a year ago, and was offered a low rate for UGC since Phia was “still a scrappy startup,” read the message she shared. “Framing this as isolated misses the systemic reality creators face every day,” she added. “I just want people in positions of privilege to value creators.” View the full article

While ChatGPT may have kicked off the generative AI era we now live in, it is far from alone these days. There is steep competition from multiple companies in this space, including Google, Anthropic, and even Microsoft—which has a huge financial stake in OpenAI. To compete, it seems OpenAI is trying to make its paid subscription plans more attractive to users, as the company just cut the price of ChatGPT Pro in half. ChatGPT Pro now starts at $100As reported by TechCrunch, OpenAI's new pricing model now offers a Pro plan at $100 per month, down from $200 per month. That now gives users a choice between the following: a free plan, which comes with ads; a Go plan offering more usage limits for $8 per month (still with ads); a Plus plan with extra models and exclusive features for $20 per month; and, now, the Pro plan, with the most usage limits across all of the company's models and features, for $100 per month. OpenAI doesn't list a $200 plan anymore, but it confirmed to TechCrunch that option is still available. If you use ChatGPT to answer your everyday questions, you might balk at the idea of spending $100 a month on the chatbot, let alone $200. But Pro plans aren't targeted at the everyday user; instead, the idea is for coders who rely on AI to help with programs to subscribe. In this case, that's through Codex, OpenAI's coding tool. OpenAI told TechCrunch that its Pro plan now offers five times more Codex access than the Plus plan, which might appeal to power users. (The hidden $200 plan offers limits that are 20 times higher than Plus, or four times higher than the $100 Pro plan.) Power users are who OpenAI is going after, too—especially those who may be tempted by Anthropic's Claude Code tool, which also offers a $100-per-month plan. This isn't speculation, either: An OpenAI spokesperson directly acknowledged how they believe Codex offers more for the money than Claude Code: “The new $100 Pro Tier is designed to give developers more practical coding capacity for the money, especially during high-intensity work sessions where limits matter most. Compared with Claude Code, Codex delivers more coding capacity per dollar across paid tiers, with the difference showing up most clearly during active coding use." The AI race continues to heat upOpenAI still has the majority of the generative AI user base. Back in February, the company announced it had broken 900 million weekly active users, with more than 50 million consumer subscribers. Anthropic doesn't disclose its total users, but some analyses put its consumers at anywhere from 18 or 30 million, while a spokesperson told TechCrunch that paid subscription have more than doubled this year. At the high end, that's 30 millions users against 900 million. But Anthropic appears to be making more money than OpenAI. The former announced on Monday that its run-rate revenue had exceeded $30 billion, up from $9 billion at the end of 2025. OpenAI says it is generating $2 billion per month, which would put it at roughly $24 billion for the year—at this point, anyway. Anecdotally, I have seen a lot of coders talk about using Claude Code, and far fewer discussing using ChatGPT Codex. While there are many AI companies out there, the fact that OpenAI called out Anthropic directly in this price cut shows they view them as a direct rival. It will be interesting to see how other things change as the race continues to heat up. Will OpenAI make more cuts, like it did when it killed Sora and dropped its AI video models? Only time will tell. Disclosure: Lifehacker’s parent company, Ziff Davis, filed a lawsuit against OpenAI in April 2025, alleging it infringed on Ziff Davis copyrights in training and operating its AI systems. View the full article

The setback pared a weekly gain for US government bonds sparked by an April 8 ceasefire agreement, which caused oil prices to tumble from near multiyear highs. View the full article

When it first launched back in 2007, it would have seemed laughable to suggest paying a monthly subscription for YouTube. But fast forward nearly two decades, and YouTube Premium is actually a solid deal. With it, you get a mostly ad-free experience, with exclusive features and perks like YouTube Music. Of course, those benefits may only be worth it for the right price. On Friday, YouTube started informing subscribers that it will be raising Premium prices for all account types. Going forward, individual YouTube Premium plans will go from $13.99 to $15.99 per month; annual plans will rise from $139.99 to $159.99 per year; family plans will go from $22.99 to $26.99 per month; and student plans will increase from $7.99 to $8.99 per month. That's only taking into account YouTube's pricing itself. If you subscribe to Premium through the YouTube app on iOS, YouTube applies an extra fee to compensate for Apple's 30% cut. That's why this Redditor's individual plan is going to $20.99 per month. For its part, YouTube does inform the user that they can sign up directly through YouTube for the new $15.99 per month price. Interestingly, YouTube hasn't actually made an official announcement regarding the press increase. Instead, this change has been spread entirely word of mouth, as users shared their emails from the company in frustration. Users are already on edge this week, accusing the company of rolling out unskippable 90-second long ad breaks. YouTube is adamant that it does not have unskippable ad breaks this long, and says that the examples of it in the wild are actually bugs. But whether or not that's the case, the situation isn't really selling the company's price increase announcement. To that point, users are not happy with this news. Scrolling through Reddit threads, I see nothing but frustration and dissatisfaction, with many threatening to cancel, or confirming they've ended their subscriptions then and there. One user called YouTube "greedy [bastards]," while others extol the virtues of ad blockers—which defeats one of the main perks of the subscription. As such, in recent years, Google started a war against ad blockers, making it much more difficult to use them with YouTube. $15.99 isn't the most expensive streaming subscription out there, and YouTube Premium still comes with all the same benefits as before. But I'm not convinced YouTube can continue squeezing subscribers for more and more money before they start to see a subscriber exodus. View the full article

It probably goes without saying at this point, but your conversations with AI chatbots aren't private—everything you type or upload to Gemini, ChatGPT, and other models might be read and used in a variety of ways. If you wouldn't send a document or repeat information to someone you don't know, you shouldn't include it in a chatbot prompt either. Researchers at Stanford reviewed the privacy policies of the six U.S. companies that developed the most popular AI chatbots, including Claude, Gemini, and ChatGPT, and found that all of them use chat data by default for training purposes. Some retain said data indefinitely, and most merge it with other information collected from consumers, such as search queries and purchases. In most cases, you can opt out of having your data used to train LLMs, but chats can also be read by human reviewers, and long-term retention policies increase the risk of your stored information being leaked in a breach. If you're going to use an AI chatbot, these are the things you should avoid sharing: Login credentials: Obviously, you should never paste prompts with usernames and passwords into a chatbot, including documents that contain login credentials. AI is also abysmal at generating secure passwords—use the tools in your password manager instead, or better yet, opt for a passkey if available. Financial data: AI chatbots aren't financial experts, and you shouldn't upload documents or use data related to your specific finances in prompts. This includes bank statements, credit card numbers, investment information, account numbers and balances, etc. Sharing financial details anywhere that isn't secure increases the risk of theft, fraud, and targeting by scammers. Medical records: AI chatbots also aren't medical professionals and shouldn't be relied upon for medical advice. You probably don't want your medical records to be used to train LLMs—plus, uploading them exposes them to potential data breaches. Personally identifiable information (PII): AI prompts should never include information like your name, address, email, phone number, birth date, Social Security number, passport number, or any other data that could be used to steal your identity. (Financial information and medical records are also considered sensitive PII.) General health information: In addition to keeping your sensitive medical records private, you should avoid giving chatbots seemingly benign information about your health that could be used to profile you. For example, the Stanford report notes that it's possible for AI chatbots to infer health status from a request for heart-friendly dinner recipes, which could eventually be accessible to insurance companies. This also includes information related to topics like sexual health, medication use, and gender-affirming care. Mental health concerns: Another thing your chatbot isn't is a therapist. AI has been unhelpful at best and harmful at worst when it comes to mental health. Even with updates intended to protect users in crisis, chatbots aren't a replacement for real, human support. Photos: AI image editing is popular, but that doesn't mean it's without risk. You may not want your personal photos used for training purposes, and image metadata contains information like your GPS location. At the very least, avoid uploading images of people (especially minors), and consider stripping EXIF data before sharing. Company documents: AI may be useful for summarizing documents, creating presentations, drafting emails, and completing other work-related tasks more quickly, but you should use caution when uploading files containing sensitive company information to a chatbot. Your employer may even have a policy prohibiting it. The bottom line is that you should be cautious what you share with AI chatbots—assume everything in your prompts is stored and could be read by someone else. Avoid anything that is personal or identifiable, and enable all available privacy settings (such as data sharing and training opt-outs). View the full article

Suspect arrested outside AI start-up’s San Francisco headquarters after threatening to burn it downView the full article

If Melania The President wanted people not to put her and Jeffery Epstein’s names in the same sentence, she’s failing miserably. The first lady surprised the nation—and reportedly, much of the White House—when she delivered a surprise statement about her relationship with convicted sex offender Epstein on Thursday, April 9. “The lies linking me with the disgraceful Jeffrey Epstein need to end today,” The President said. “I never had a relationship with Epstein or his accomplice [Ghislaine] Maxwell.” “The individuals lying about me are devoid of ethical standards, humility, and respect,” she continued, though who she was referring to remained unclear. “I do not object to their ignorance, but rather, I reject their mean-spirited attempts to defame my reputation.” If The President’s associations with Epstein had recently reentered the headlines, her speech would at least be more warranted. But instead, her statement left America scratching its head, and pointing at her and her husband’s proven connections to Epstein, particularly President Donald The President and Epstein’s friendship in the 1990s. It also brought renewed attention to the infamous birthday message and lewd drawing allegedly left for Epstein by President The President in 2003, which read, “A pal is a wonderful thing. Happy Birthday—and may every day be another wonderful secret.” President The President denied writing the message and sued The Wall Street Journal’s parent companies for defamation after the outlet reported on the letter. “I have never been friends with Epstein,” Melania The President said. “Donald and I were invited to the same parties as Epstein from time to time, since overlapping in social circles is common in New York City and Palm Beach.” Whether having mutual friends in the largest city in America is as “common” as The President claims, her speech brought a new degree of scrutiny to her history with Epstein and his associates. Google Trends shows that searches for “Melania The President Jeffrey Epstein” spiked after her speech, reaching a new all-time peak. The speech was reportedly a rogue move by the first lady. In a brief phone call with MS NOW, President The President revealed he didn’t know about his wife’s statement ahead of time, adding that “she didn’t know [Epstein].” Another White House official added that many staffers were also surprised by her speech. Emails with Ghislaine Maxwell In her statement, Melania The President gave special attention to her relationship with Epstein’s former partner and convicted child sex offender Ghislaine Maxwell, apparently referencing emails she and Maxwell exchanged between 2002 and 2003. “My email reply to Maxwell cannot be categorized as anything more than casual correspondence,” The President said. “My polite reply to her email doesn’t amount to anything more than a trivial note.” Though The President referred to her own message to Maxwell as a “reply” multiple times, the exchange appears to have been initiated by The President based on her greeting. “Dear G! How are you?” The President’s email began. “I know you are very busy flying all over the world. How was Palm Beach? I cannot wait to go down. Give me a call when you are back in NY. Have a great time! Love, Melania,” she concluded. Maxwell replied, calling The President “sweet pea” and writing, “I still do not think I have time to see you sadly. I will try and call though.” Maxwell signed her email, “Gx.” A call to action In a rare reach across the aisle, The President closed her speech with a request for Congress that Democrats have long been advocating for. “Now is the time for Congress to act,” Melania said, asking for a public Congressional hearing for Epstein’s victims. “Each and every woman should have her day to tell her story in public, if she wishes, and then her testimony should be permanently entered into the Congressional Record,” she said. “Then, and only then, will we have the truth.” View the full article

Creating a successful referral program involves several key steps. First, you need to define clear incentives for both referrers and referees, ensuring these rewards are appealing. Next, streamlining the referral process is essential, as it should be easy for participants to share links and understand instructions. Implementing a reliable tracking system will help monitor referrals effectively. Consistent communication keeps participants engaged. Finally, evaluating and optimizing the program can greatly improve its effectiveness. What’s next in the process? Key Takeaways Define clear incentives for both referrers and referees to encourage participation and build trust. Streamline the referral process with easy-to-share custom links and step-by-step instructions. Implement a reliable tracking system to monitor referrals and automate rewards distribution. Maintain consistent communication through updates and success stories to keep participants engaged. Regularly evaluate and optimize the program based on conversion rates and participant feedback. Define Clear Incentives for Participants When you launch a referral program, it’s crucial to define clear incentives for participants to encourage their engagement. Start by offering double-sided rewards in your membership referral program; both the referrer and referee should benefit. This nurtures community and boosts participation rates. Research shows that non-cash rewards convert about 25% better than cash payouts, so consider appealing options like discounts or exclusive products. Make sure to set transparent terms on how incentives are earned and distributed. This builds trust and satisfaction among participants. Finally, regularly evaluate and refresh your incentive offerings to maintain interest; stale rewards can decrease engagement. Comprehending how to create a referral program effectively hinges on these clear incentives. Streamline the Referral Process Creating clear incentives is just the beginning of a successful referral program; streamlining the referral process is equally important for maximizing participation. To improve engagement, follow these crucial steps: Provide Custom Referral Links: Make it easy for customers to share their unique links across social networks and via email. Include Step-by-Step Instructions: Offer clear guidance on how to participate, ensuring that customers understand the process without any confusion. Design a User-Friendly Interface: Create a platform where customers can easily track their referrals and rewards, making participation more appealing. Implement a Reliable Tracking System A reliable tracking system is vital for any successful referral program, as it guarantees accurate monitoring of referrals and rewards. You should utilize referral software to automate the assignment of unique referral links or codes, ensuring each customer’s referrals are tracked correctly. Employ analytics tools to gauge conversion rates, helping you assess your program’s effectiveness and make necessary adjustments. Regularly review metrics like the number of referrals made and successful conversions to measure overall success. Make sure your tracking system integrates seamlessly with your existing CRM platforms for efficient data management. Finally, set up automated notifications to inform referrers about their referral status and reward eligibility, which boosts engagement and motivates them to participate actively in your program. Maintain Consistent Communication Maintaining consistent communication is crucial for the success of your referral program, as it keeps participants engaged and informed. To maximize the effectiveness of your communication, consider the following strategies: Regular Updates: Share progress and success stories, as 92% of customers trust referrals from people they know, which can motivate referrers to participate actively. Utilize Multiple Channels: Use email and social media to reach a broader audience, increasing participation rates and ensuring everyone stays informed about the program. Clarify Rewards: Clearly outline the rewards and benefits of the program. Participants are 30% more likely to join when they understand the value proposition, which sets proper expectations and encourages involvement. Regularly Evaluate and Optimize the Program To guarantee your referral program remains effective, regularly evaluating and optimizing its structure is critical. Start by analyzing conversion rates to measure effectiveness; referred customers often exhibit a 37% higher retention rate. This data can help you adjust incentives and strategies based on customer feedback. Monitor your referral sources to focus marketing efforts on the most effective channels, assuring better results. Setting specific KPIs allows for measurable assessments, helping you identify areas needing improvement. Moreover, implement regular check-ins with referrers for valuable insights, which can bolster program engagement and overall customer satisfaction. Frequently Asked Questions How to Create an Effective Referral Program? To create an effective referral program, start by defining specific goals, like increasing customer acquisition by 20% in six months. Choose appealing incentives for both referrers and referees, as attractive offers encourage participation. Simplify the referral process with user-friendly links and clear instructions. Actively promote your program through channels like email and social media. Finally, regularly track performance data to refine your strategies, ensuring the program remains effective and meets your objectives. What Are Examples of Good Referral Programs? Good referral programs include Dropbox, which boosted sign-ups by 3900% through a tiered storage reward system. T-Mobile offers up to $650 in prepaid rewards for customer referrals, enhancing engagement. Stitch Fix rewards both referrers and new customers with credits, promoting acquisition and retention. Quip provides purchase credits to referrers, encouraging growth through existing networks. Google Workspace’s cash rewards and discounts effectively increase referral activity, attracting more users to the platform. What Is the KPI of Referral Program? The key performance indicators (KPIs) of a referral program include referral conversion rate, customer acquisition cost (CAC), and lifetime value (LTV) of referred customers. You should monitor the referral conversion rate to see how many referrals result in purchases. Ideally, CAC for referred customers should be lower than for others. Moreover, track the retention rate of referred customers, as they tend to remain loyal longer, showcasing the program’s effectiveness in building lasting relationships. Why Do Most Employee Referral Programs Fail? Most employee referral programs fail because of unclear communication about goals and benefits, which can lead to low participation rates. Without appealing incentives, employees might lack motivation to refer candidates. Complicated submission processes can frustrate them, causing many to abandon their efforts. Moreover, insufficient tracking hinders monitoring success, whereas neglecting regular program evaluations based on employee feedback can stifle improvement, ultimately resulting in stagnation and decreased engagement in the referral process. Conclusion By following these five steps, you can create a successful referral program that benefits both referrers and referees. Start by defining clear incentives, such as discounts or exclusive offers, to motivate participants. Streamline the referral process with easy-to-share links and clear instructions. Implement a reliable tracking system to monitor progress and keep everyone informed. Finally, regularly evaluate your program to identify areas for improvement, ensuring ongoing engagement and satisfaction among participants. Image via Google Gemini and ArtSmart This article, "5 Simple Steps to Create a Successful Referral Program" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Creating a successful referral program involves several key steps. First, you need to define clear incentives for both referrers and referees, ensuring these rewards are appealing. Next, streamlining the referral process is essential, as it should be easy for participants to share links and understand instructions. Implementing a reliable tracking system will help monitor referrals effectively. Consistent communication keeps participants engaged. Finally, evaluating and optimizing the program can greatly improve its effectiveness. What’s next in the process? Key Takeaways Define clear incentives for both referrers and referees to encourage participation and build trust. Streamline the referral process with easy-to-share custom links and step-by-step instructions. Implement a reliable tracking system to monitor referrals and automate rewards distribution. Maintain consistent communication through updates and success stories to keep participants engaged. Regularly evaluate and optimize the program based on conversion rates and participant feedback. Define Clear Incentives for Participants When you launch a referral program, it’s crucial to define clear incentives for participants to encourage their engagement. Start by offering double-sided rewards in your membership referral program; both the referrer and referee should benefit. This nurtures community and boosts participation rates. Research shows that non-cash rewards convert about 25% better than cash payouts, so consider appealing options like discounts or exclusive products. Make sure to set transparent terms on how incentives are earned and distributed. This builds trust and satisfaction among participants. Finally, regularly evaluate and refresh your incentive offerings to maintain interest; stale rewards can decrease engagement. Comprehending how to create a referral program effectively hinges on these clear incentives. Streamline the Referral Process Creating clear incentives is just the beginning of a successful referral program; streamlining the referral process is equally important for maximizing participation. To improve engagement, follow these crucial steps: Provide Custom Referral Links: Make it easy for customers to share their unique links across social networks and via email. Include Step-by-Step Instructions: Offer clear guidance on how to participate, ensuring that customers understand the process without any confusion. Design a User-Friendly Interface: Create a platform where customers can easily track their referrals and rewards, making participation more appealing. Implement a Reliable Tracking System A reliable tracking system is vital for any successful referral program, as it guarantees accurate monitoring of referrals and rewards. You should utilize referral software to automate the assignment of unique referral links or codes, ensuring each customer’s referrals are tracked correctly. Employ analytics tools to gauge conversion rates, helping you assess your program’s effectiveness and make necessary adjustments. Regularly review metrics like the number of referrals made and successful conversions to measure overall success. Make sure your tracking system integrates seamlessly with your existing CRM platforms for efficient data management. Finally, set up automated notifications to inform referrers about their referral status and reward eligibility, which boosts engagement and motivates them to participate actively in your program. Maintain Consistent Communication Maintaining consistent communication is crucial for the success of your referral program, as it keeps participants engaged and informed. To maximize the effectiveness of your communication, consider the following strategies: Regular Updates: Share progress and success stories, as 92% of customers trust referrals from people they know, which can motivate referrers to participate actively. Utilize Multiple Channels: Use email and social media to reach a broader audience, increasing participation rates and ensuring everyone stays informed about the program. Clarify Rewards: Clearly outline the rewards and benefits of the program. Participants are 30% more likely to join when they understand the value proposition, which sets proper expectations and encourages involvement. Regularly Evaluate and Optimize the Program To guarantee your referral program remains effective, regularly evaluating and optimizing its structure is critical. Start by analyzing conversion rates to measure effectiveness; referred customers often exhibit a 37% higher retention rate. This data can help you adjust incentives and strategies based on customer feedback. Monitor your referral sources to focus marketing efforts on the most effective channels, assuring better results. Setting specific KPIs allows for measurable assessments, helping you identify areas needing improvement. Moreover, implement regular check-ins with referrers for valuable insights, which can bolster program engagement and overall customer satisfaction. Frequently Asked Questions How to Create an Effective Referral Program? To create an effective referral program, start by defining specific goals, like increasing customer acquisition by 20% in six months. Choose appealing incentives for both referrers and referees, as attractive offers encourage participation. Simplify the referral process with user-friendly links and clear instructions. Actively promote your program through channels like email and social media. Finally, regularly track performance data to refine your strategies, ensuring the program remains effective and meets your objectives. What Are Examples of Good Referral Programs? Good referral programs include Dropbox, which boosted sign-ups by 3900% through a tiered storage reward system. T-Mobile offers up to $650 in prepaid rewards for customer referrals, enhancing engagement. Stitch Fix rewards both referrers and new customers with credits, promoting acquisition and retention. Quip provides purchase credits to referrers, encouraging growth through existing networks. Google Workspace’s cash rewards and discounts effectively increase referral activity, attracting more users to the platform. What Is the KPI of Referral Program? The key performance indicators (KPIs) of a referral program include referral conversion rate, customer acquisition cost (CAC), and lifetime value (LTV) of referred customers. You should monitor the referral conversion rate to see how many referrals result in purchases. Ideally, CAC for referred customers should be lower than for others. Moreover, track the retention rate of referred customers, as they tend to remain loyal longer, showcasing the program’s effectiveness in building lasting relationships. Why Do Most Employee Referral Programs Fail? Most employee referral programs fail because of unclear communication about goals and benefits, which can lead to low participation rates. Without appealing incentives, employees might lack motivation to refer candidates. Complicated submission processes can frustrate them, causing many to abandon their efforts. Moreover, insufficient tracking hinders monitoring success, whereas neglecting regular program evaluations based on employee feedback can stifle improvement, ultimately resulting in stagnation and decreased engagement in the referral process. Conclusion By following these five steps, you can create a successful referral program that benefits both referrers and referees. Start by defining clear incentives, such as discounts or exclusive offers, to motivate participants. Streamline the referral process with easy-to-share links and clear instructions. Implement a reliable tracking system to monitor progress and keep everyone informed. Finally, regularly evaluate your program to identify areas for improvement, ensuring ongoing engagement and satisfaction among participants. Image via Google Gemini and ArtSmart This article, "5 Simple Steps to Create a Successful Referral Program" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Britain’s largest provider of vehicle loans wants to draw a line under scandal that rocked the sectorView the full article

Gmail is one of—if not the—most popular email platform in the world. But it's not the favorite for users who care about their privacy. Google doesn't offer end-to-end encryption (E2EE) for basic Gmail users, instead opting for "Transport Layer Security" (TLS). This provides security in transit, but doesn't help once the message reaches its destination. While TLS is better than nothing, it doesn't offer the same level of security as E2EE, which scrambles messages for everyone other than the sender, recipients, and whoever else has the decryption key. As such, privacy-minded users often look elsewhere for their email needs, like Proton Mail. But Google does offer more advanced encryption for some users—namely, work or school Workspace accounts. There's Secure/Multipurpose Internet Mail Extensions (S/MIME), which, like E2EE, encrypts emails in transit and in the sender's and recipients' inboxes. But it comes with the drawback of Google having a decryption key as well. In theory, Google could decrypt your emails—or, if Google was successfully hacked, an attacker could use the key to decrypt your emails. That's where client-side encryption (CSE) comes in: Here, the organizer of a Google Workspace plan has that decryption key, not Google, which means decryption is only possible within the organization. If your company has a Workspace plan, this is the encryption to use if you want your email as secure as possible. But the main issue up to this point is that CSE has only been available on desktop. When at your computer, you could take advantage of encrypted Gmail, but when on the go, the mobile Gmail app didn't support it. According to Google, the only way to access CSE emails on mobile was to rely on extra apps and email portals. Gmail on iOS and Android now supports E2EE through CSEThat's all changing now. On Thursday, Google announced it is now rolling out CSE support for the iOS and Android Gmail apps. Going forward, you can write and read E2EE emails directly within Gmail, no matter how you access the app. Plus, you'll be able to send E2EE emails to anyone, even if they don't have Gmail. Google says that if your recipient has Gmail, they'll simply be able to open the message in their inbox. If they have a different email address (e.g. Outlook, Yahoo, iCloud, Proton, etc.), they'll still be able to read the email, but they'll need to open it in their device's browser. However, be careful when sending messages with CSE, as not everything you send is encrypted end-to-end. According to Google's help page on CSE, the body of the email will have total encryption, but the header, subject, timestamps, and recipients, will not have additional encryption. How to send E2EE messages in Gmail The admin of your organization will need to enable CSE for iOS and Android on their end before you see the option in your app. Once that happens, choose "Compose," then select "Message security," which has a lock icon. Under "Additional encryption," choose "Turn on." Then, craft your email as you normally would. View the full article

Determining your LLC’s tax filing date is vital for compliance and can vary based on your entity type. If you’re a single-member LLC, you’ll report income on Schedule C of Form 1040, due April 15. For multi-member LLCs, the deadline is March 15 with Form 1065. It’s important to understand these differences and any potential extensions that may apply. Knowing these details can help you avoid penalties, but there are more factors to take into account. Key Takeaways Identify your LLC’s structure: single-member, multi-member, S corporation, or C corporation, as this affects your tax filing date. For multi-member LLCs, file Form 1065 by March 15, 2026, for the 2025 tax year. Single-member LLCs report income on Schedule C, due April 15, 2026, as part of your personal tax return. S corporations must file Form 1120S by March 15, 2026, and provide Schedule K-1 to shareholders by the same date. Consider requesting an extension using Form 7004 for partnerships and S corporations, extending the deadline to September 15, 2026. Understanding LLC Tax Structures When you’re starting an LLC, it’s essential to grasp the different tax structures available, as they can greatly affect your business’s financial obligations. An LLC can be treated as a sole proprietorship if it has a single member, requiring you to report income on Schedule C of Form 1040. If your LLC has multiple members, it’s typically classified as a partnership and needs to file Form 1065 by the LLC tax deadline, which is March 15. Furthermore, you can elect to be taxed as an S corporation or C corporation by filing IRS Forms 2553 or 8832, respectively. These choices influence your LLC tax return due date and the overall tax obligations. So, when are LLC taxes due? For partnerships and S corporations, it’s March 15 each year, whereas C corporations have until April 15. Grasping these structures will help you meet your tax responsibilities efficiently. Key Tax Filing Dates for LLCs Grasping the key tax filing dates for your LLC is essential for maintaining compliance and avoiding penalties. For multi-owner LLCs, the llc tax filing date is March 15, 2026, when you’ll need to file Form 1065 to report income and losses. If you’re a single-owner LLC, report your income on Schedule C of Form 1040, due by April 15, 2026. Should your LLC elect to be treated as an S corporation, file Form 1120S by March 15, 2026, and provide Schedule K-1 to shareholders by the same date. Remember, you can request a six-month extension by submitting Form 7004, extending your due date to September 15, 2026, for partnerships and S corporations, and to October 15, 2026, for sole proprietorships. Moreover, estimated tax payments are due quarterly on April 15, June 15, September 15, and January 15 of the following year if taxes owed exceed $1,000. Tax Filing Deadlines for C Corporations Though comprehending tax obligations for LLCs is important, C corporations likewise have specific deadlines they need to meet to stay compliant with federal tax regulations. C corporations must file their federal income tax return, Form 1120, by April 15 if they operate on a calendar year. If they follow a fiscal year, the tax return is due on the 15th day of the fourth month after the fiscal year ends. Additionally, if a C corporation expects to owe $500 or more in taxes, it’s required to make estimated tax payments due on April 15, June 15, September 15, and December 15. Filing Form 7004 can grant an extension of six months, moving the filing deadline to October 15. Remember, if the due date falls on a weekend or federal holiday, the deadline shifts to the next business day, so keep that in mind when planning your filings. Tax Filing Deadlines for S Corporations In regard to S Corporations, you need to file Form 1120-S by March 15 each year to meet your tax obligations. If you require more time, you can file for an extension using Form 7004, which grants you until September 15 to submit your return. Filing Form 1120S Filing Form 1120S is vital for S corporations, as it determines your tax responsibilities for the year. For calendar year taxpayers, the deadline is March 15, 2025, without an extension. If you need more time, you can file Form 7004 for an automatic six-month extension, which pushes the due date to September 15, 2025. It’s important to guarantee that shareholders receive their Schedule K-1 by March 16, 2025, as it details their share of income, deductions, and credits. Furthermore, if you want to elect S corporation status for the 2025 tax year, you’ll need to file IRS Form 2553 by March 17, 2025. Missing the filing deadline may result in penalties or loss of S corporation status. Extension Application Process For S corporations facing a tight deadline for filing Form 1120-S, the extension application process offers a valuable option to gain extra time. If your S corporation follows a calendar year, the original due date is March 15, 2025. To apply for an extension, you must file IRS Form 7004 before this deadline. This grants you an automatic six-month extension, pushing your filing deadline to September 15, 2025. Remember, you also need to provide Schedule K-1 to your shareholders by the same March 15 deadline, detailing their share of income, deductions, and credits. Be mindful that failing to file on time, even with an extension, can result in penalties, so it’s essential to meet these deadlines. Tax Filing Deadlines for Partnerships When you’re managing a partnership, it’s essential to know that you must file Form 1065 by March 15, 2026, for the 2025 tax year without requesting an extension. Each partner will receive a Schedule K-1 by March 16, 2026, outlining their share of the partnership’s income, deductions, and credits. If you need extra time, remember you can file Form 7004 to request a six-month extension, but you’ll still have to pay any taxes owed by the original due date to avoid penalties. Filing Form 1065 Grasping the deadlines for filing Form 1065 is essential for partnerships, as it directly impacts their compliance and potential penalties. For calendar year partnerships, this form is due by March 15. You must likewise distribute Schedule K-1 to each partner by the same date, which details their share of income, deductions, and credits. If you need more time, you can request an extension using IRS Form 7004, extending the deadline to September 15. For partnerships on a fiscal year, remember to file Form 1065 by the 15th day of the third month after your fiscal year ends. Timely filing is critical to avoid accruing penalties for late submissions, so keep these dates in mind. Extension Application Process Comprehending the extension application process is crucial for partnerships aiming to meet their tax obligations without incurring penalties. Partnerships must file Form 1065 by March 15, 2025, except they apply for an extension. To secure this, submit IRS Form 7004 by the original due date. This grants an automatic six-month extension, moving your deadline to September 15, 2025. Nevertheless, keep in mind that even with an extension, you must pay any estimated taxes owed by the original deadline to avoid penalties and interest. Moreover, Schedule K-1 needs to be distributed to partners by March 16, 2025, ensuring they report their shares of income, deductions, and credits accurately. Extensions only apply to filing, not payments. Tax Filing Deadlines for Sole Proprietorships Comprehending the tax filing deadlines for sole proprietorships is critical for managing your business finances effectively. Sole proprietors report business income on Schedule C, which is filed with Form 1040. This form is typically due by April 15 of the following year. For the 2025 tax year, you’ll need to submit it by April 15, 2026, except that date falls on a weekend or holiday, in which case it extends to the next business day. If you expect to owe $1,000 or more in taxes, you must make quarterly estimated tax payments by April 15, June 15, September 15, and January 15 of the next year. Should you need more time, you can request a six-month extension using IRS Form 4868, moving your filing deadline to October 15. Importance of Estimated Tax Payments When running your LLC, grasping the importance of estimated tax payments can’t be overlooked. You’ll need to meet specific deadlines—April 15, June 15, September 15, and December 15—if you expect to owe more than $1,000. Missing these deadlines could lead to penalties and interest from the IRS, making it essential to stay on top of your payments. Payment Deadlines Overview Comprehending the importance of estimated tax payments is crucial for LLC owners, especially since failing to meet these obligations can result in penalties and interest charges. If you expect to owe more than $1,000 in taxes, you must make quarterly estimated payments. For 2025, the due dates are April 15, June 17, September 16, and January 15, 2026. Sole proprietors and owners of pass-through entities follow the same schedule. C corporations, meanwhile, need to make payments if they anticipate owing $500 or more, with deadlines on April 15, June 15, September 15, and December 15, 2026. Utilizing IRS Form 1040-ES and the Estimated Tax Worksheet in Publication 542 can help you accurately calculate these payments. Consequences of Late Payments Missing your estimated tax payment deadlines can have significant consequences for your LLC. If you fail to make timely payments, you could face penalties and interest that accrue on unpaid amounts from the due date until you settle your balance. For C corporations, estimated payments are necessary if your expected tax liability exceeds $500, whereas sole proprietorships, partnerships, and S corporations must pay if it exceeds $1,000. The quarterly due dates for 2025 are April 15, June 17, September 16, and January 15, 2026. Missing these deadlines can lead to additional charges. The IRS encourages prompt payments to avoid underpayment penalties, highlighting the importance of staying current with your obligations to protect your business’s financial health. How to Apply for a Tax Extension Applying for a tax extension is a straightforward process that can provide you with extra time to file your tax return. For partnerships and S corporations, you’ll need to file IRS Form 7004 by March 17, 2025. Sole proprietors and C corporations must submit Form 4868 by April 15, 2025. These extensions grant you an additional six months, shifting due dates to September 15, 2025, for partnerships and S corporations, and October 15, 2025, for sole proprietors and C corporations. Keep in mind that although extensions extend your filing deadline, they don’t change the payment due date; you must still pay estimated taxes on time to avoid penalties. Applications for extensions can be submitted online, so make sure your forms are filled out accurately to avoid complications with the IRS. Some individuals might automatically qualify for extensions, but all business types should be mindful of their specific deadlines and requirements. Selecting the Right Tax Designation for Your LLC When determining the right tax designation for your LLC, it’s essential to understand the various options available and how they impact your business’s tax obligations. LLCs can choose to be taxed as a sole proprietorship, partnership, S corporation, or C corporation. Each option has different implications for income reporting and tax liabilities. Tax Designation Description Sole Proprietorship Single-owner LLCs report income on Schedule C. Partnership Multi-owner LLCs file Form 1065 by March 15. S Corporation Must file IRS Form 2553; deadline for 2025 is March 17, 2025. To elect taxation as a corporation or disregarded entity, you must file IRS Form 8832 within 75 days of formation or the start of the fiscal year. Consulting a CPA or tax professional can help you choose the best option for your LLC. Special Considerations for First-Year LLCs First-year LLCs face unique challenges regarding their tax obligations and filing requirements. Depending on their chosen tax classification, they must file federal income tax returns accordingly. For instance, if your LLC is treated as a partnership, you’ll need to file Form 1065 by March 15. If it’s a single-member LLC, you’ll report income on Schedule C of Form 1040, due by April 15. If you expect to owe more than $1,000 in taxes, don’t forget to start making quarterly estimated tax payments, with the first due on April 15 of the following tax year. Furthermore, if you want to elect corporate taxation, you must file IRS Form 8832 within 75 days of formation, which impacts your filing deadlines. It’s crucial to consult a tax professional to navigate these specific requirements and deadlines effectively, ensuring compliance and avoiding penalties. State-Specific Tax Filing Requirements Grasping state-specific tax filing requirements is essential for LLC owners, as these regulations can differ greatly from one state to another. Some states require LLCs to file annual reports alongside their tax returns, whereas others don’t mandate such filings. Furthermore, many states set their own deadlines for tax filings, which often don’t align with federal deadlines, making it critical to check local regulations. Moreover, certain states impose a minimum franchise tax or annual fee that all LLCs must pay, regardless of income, with specific due dates. You may likewise need to submit supplementary forms or documentation depending on your business type, highlighting the significance of grasping local laws. Staying informed about these state-specific requirements helps you avoid penalties and guarantees compliance with both state and federal regulations. Make it a priority to research your state’s rules to keep your LLC in good standing. Tips for Staying Compliant With Tax Deadlines Staying compliant with tax deadlines is crucial for keeping your LLC in good standing and avoiding unnecessary penalties. For multi-owner LLCs, make sure you file Form 1065 by March 15. If you’re a single-owner LLC, attach Schedule C to your Form 1040 by April 15. Don’t forget to make timely quarterly estimated tax payments on April 15, June 17, September 16, and January 15, especially if your tax liability exceeds $1,000. If you need more time, use IRS Form 7004 to apply for a six-month extension, but submit it by the original due date. Keep in mind that state tax deadlines may vary, so check your state’s requirements. To stay organized, mark all relevant tax deadlines in your calendar, including payroll tax due dates and the January 31 deadline for providing 1099 forms to recipients. This proactive approach can help you avoid compliance issues. Resources for LLC Tax Filing Assistance Comprehending your tax obligations is a key part of running an IRS website, which offers detailed guidelines on tax filing deadlines and forms customized to your business structure. Partnering with a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) can likewise be invaluable, as they help navigate complex tax regulations and guarantee compliance with critical filing dates. Furthermore, the IRS provides various resources, such as publications and forms, designed to clarify your tax responsibilities. You might also consider using online tax preparation services that streamline the filing process, making it easier to meet deadlines and avoid penalties. Finally, local small business development centers often host workshops and provide one-on-one consultations for LLC owners seeking tax filing guidance. Utilizing these resources can meaningfully ease the burden of tax compliance for your LLC. Frequently Asked Questions What Is the IRS Filing Date for LLC? The IRS filing date for your LLC depends on its classification. If it’s a single-owner LLC, you’ll file by April 15, reporting income on Schedule C with your Form 1040. For multi-owner LLCs, the deadline is March 15, requiring Form 1065. If your LLC has elected S corporation status, you’ll likewise file by March 15 using Form 1120S. What Is My LLC Start Date? Your LLC start date is vital, as it marks when your business officially exists. Typically, this date is when you file your Articles of Organization with your state. It’s important to document this date, as it affects your tax filing deadlines and compliance with regulations. If you choose to file as a corporation, this date likewise influences your taxable year. Always keep records of your start date for future reference. How Do I Know My LLC Tax Year? To know your LLC’s tax year, check its default classification. Most LLCs use a calendar year, ending December 31, except you’ve elected a fiscal year by filing IRS Form 8832. If you’ve chosen a fiscal year, your year ends on a date other than December 31. Comprehending your LLC’s tax year is crucial for meeting filing deadlines and ensuring compliance with IRS regulations, helping you avoid potential penalties. What Is the Filing Date for Business Taxes? The filing date for business taxes varies based on your LLC’s tax classification. If you have a single-owner LLC, you’ll file using Schedule C with Form 1040 by April 15. For multi-owner LLCs, the deadline is March 15 with Form 1065. If your LLC is taxed as an S Corporation, you’ll likewise file by March 15 using Form 1120S. C Corporations must file Form 1120 by April 15, with extensions available. Conclusion In summary, comprehending your LLC’s tax structure is essential for meeting filing deadlines correctly. Whether you’re a single-member LLC or a multi-member partnership, each structure has specific requirements and due dates. Remember to check for any extensions and state-specific regulations that may apply. Staying organized and aware of these deadlines will help guarantee compliance and avoid penalties. For further assistance, consider seeking professional tax advice customized to your LLC’s unique situation. Image via Google Gemini This article, "How to Determine Your LLC Tax File Date" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Determining your LLC’s tax filing date is vital for compliance and can vary based on your entity type. If you’re a single-member LLC, you’ll report income on Schedule C of Form 1040, due April 15. For multi-member LLCs, the deadline is March 15 with Form 1065. It’s important to understand these differences and any potential extensions that may apply. Knowing these details can help you avoid penalties, but there are more factors to take into account. Key Takeaways Identify your LLC’s structure: single-member, multi-member, S corporation, or C corporation, as this affects your tax filing date. For multi-member LLCs, file Form 1065 by March 15, 2026, for the 2025 tax year. Single-member LLCs report income on Schedule C, due April 15, 2026, as part of your personal tax return. S corporations must file Form 1120S by March 15, 2026, and provide Schedule K-1 to shareholders by the same date. Consider requesting an extension using Form 7004 for partnerships and S corporations, extending the deadline to September 15, 2026. Understanding LLC Tax Structures When you’re starting an LLC, it’s essential to grasp the different tax structures available, as they can greatly affect your business’s financial obligations. An LLC can be treated as a sole proprietorship if it has a single member, requiring you to report income on Schedule C of Form 1040. If your LLC has multiple members, it’s typically classified as a partnership and needs to file Form 1065 by the LLC tax deadline, which is March 15. Furthermore, you can elect to be taxed as an S corporation or C corporation by filing IRS Forms 2553 or 8832, respectively. These choices influence your LLC tax return due date and the overall tax obligations. So, when are LLC taxes due? For partnerships and S corporations, it’s March 15 each year, whereas C corporations have until April 15. Grasping these structures will help you meet your tax responsibilities efficiently. Key Tax Filing Dates for LLCs Grasping the key tax filing dates for your LLC is essential for maintaining compliance and avoiding penalties. For multi-owner LLCs, the llc tax filing date is March 15, 2026, when you’ll need to file Form 1065 to report income and losses. If you’re a single-owner LLC, report your income on Schedule C of Form 1040, due by April 15, 2026. Should your LLC elect to be treated as an S corporation, file Form 1120S by March 15, 2026, and provide Schedule K-1 to shareholders by the same date. Remember, you can request a six-month extension by submitting Form 7004, extending your due date to September 15, 2026, for partnerships and S corporations, and to October 15, 2026, for sole proprietorships. Moreover, estimated tax payments are due quarterly on April 15, June 15, September 15, and January 15 of the following year if taxes owed exceed $1,000. Tax Filing Deadlines for C Corporations Though comprehending tax obligations for LLCs is important, C corporations likewise have specific deadlines they need to meet to stay compliant with federal tax regulations. C corporations must file their federal income tax return, Form 1120, by April 15 if they operate on a calendar year. If they follow a fiscal year, the tax return is due on the 15th day of the fourth month after the fiscal year ends. Additionally, if a C corporation expects to owe $500 or more in taxes, it’s required to make estimated tax payments due on April 15, June 15, September 15, and December 15. Filing Form 7004 can grant an extension of six months, moving the filing deadline to October 15. Remember, if the due date falls on a weekend or federal holiday, the deadline shifts to the next business day, so keep that in mind when planning your filings. Tax Filing Deadlines for S Corporations In regard to S Corporations, you need to file Form 1120-S by March 15 each year to meet your tax obligations. If you require more time, you can file for an extension using Form 7004, which grants you until September 15 to submit your return. Filing Form 1120S Filing Form 1120S is vital for S corporations, as it determines your tax responsibilities for the year. For calendar year taxpayers, the deadline is March 15, 2025, without an extension. If you need more time, you can file Form 7004 for an automatic six-month extension, which pushes the due date to September 15, 2025. It’s important to guarantee that shareholders receive their Schedule K-1 by March 16, 2025, as it details their share of income, deductions, and credits. Furthermore, if you want to elect S corporation status for the 2025 tax year, you’ll need to file IRS Form 2553 by March 17, 2025. Missing the filing deadline may result in penalties or loss of S corporation status. Extension Application Process For S corporations facing a tight deadline for filing Form 1120-S, the extension application process offers a valuable option to gain extra time. If your S corporation follows a calendar year, the original due date is March 15, 2025. To apply for an extension, you must file IRS Form 7004 before this deadline. This grants you an automatic six-month extension, pushing your filing deadline to September 15, 2025. Remember, you also need to provide Schedule K-1 to your shareholders by the same March 15 deadline, detailing their share of income, deductions, and credits. Be mindful that failing to file on time, even with an extension, can result in penalties, so it’s essential to meet these deadlines. Tax Filing Deadlines for Partnerships When you’re managing a partnership, it’s essential to know that you must file Form 1065 by March 15, 2026, for the 2025 tax year without requesting an extension. Each partner will receive a Schedule K-1 by March 16, 2026, outlining their share of the partnership’s income, deductions, and credits. If you need extra time, remember you can file Form 7004 to request a six-month extension, but you’ll still have to pay any taxes owed by the original due date to avoid penalties. Filing Form 1065 Grasping the deadlines for filing Form 1065 is essential for partnerships, as it directly impacts their compliance and potential penalties. For calendar year partnerships, this form is due by March 15. You must likewise distribute Schedule K-1 to each partner by the same date, which details their share of income, deductions, and credits. If you need more time, you can request an extension using IRS Form 7004, extending the deadline to September 15. For partnerships on a fiscal year, remember to file Form 1065 by the 15th day of the third month after your fiscal year ends. Timely filing is critical to avoid accruing penalties for late submissions, so keep these dates in mind. Extension Application Process Comprehending the extension application process is crucial for partnerships aiming to meet their tax obligations without incurring penalties. Partnerships must file Form 1065 by March 15, 2025, except they apply for an extension. To secure this, submit IRS Form 7004 by the original due date. This grants an automatic six-month extension, moving your deadline to September 15, 2025. Nevertheless, keep in mind that even with an extension, you must pay any estimated taxes owed by the original deadline to avoid penalties and interest. Moreover, Schedule K-1 needs to be distributed to partners by March 16, 2025, ensuring they report their shares of income, deductions, and credits accurately. Extensions only apply to filing, not payments. Tax Filing Deadlines for Sole Proprietorships Comprehending the tax filing deadlines for sole proprietorships is critical for managing your business finances effectively. Sole proprietors report business income on Schedule C, which is filed with Form 1040. This form is typically due by April 15 of the following year. For the 2025 tax year, you’ll need to submit it by April 15, 2026, except that date falls on a weekend or holiday, in which case it extends to the next business day. If you expect to owe $1,000 or more in taxes, you must make quarterly estimated tax payments by April 15, June 15, September 15, and January 15 of the next year. Should you need more time, you can request a six-month extension using IRS Form 4868, moving your filing deadline to October 15. Importance of Estimated Tax Payments When running your LLC, grasping the importance of estimated tax payments can’t be overlooked. You’ll need to meet specific deadlines—April 15, June 15, September 15, and December 15—if you expect to owe more than $1,000. Missing these deadlines could lead to penalties and interest from the IRS, making it essential to stay on top of your payments. Payment Deadlines Overview Comprehending the importance of estimated tax payments is crucial for LLC owners, especially since failing to meet these obligations can result in penalties and interest charges. If you expect to owe more than $1,000 in taxes, you must make quarterly estimated payments. For 2025, the due dates are April 15, June 17, September 16, and January 15, 2026. Sole proprietors and owners of pass-through entities follow the same schedule. C corporations, meanwhile, need to make payments if they anticipate owing $500 or more, with deadlines on April 15, June 15, September 15, and December 15, 2026. Utilizing IRS Form 1040-ES and the Estimated Tax Worksheet in Publication 542 can help you accurately calculate these payments. Consequences of Late Payments Missing your estimated tax payment deadlines can have significant consequences for your LLC. If you fail to make timely payments, you could face penalties and interest that accrue on unpaid amounts from the due date until you settle your balance. For C corporations, estimated payments are necessary if your expected tax liability exceeds $500, whereas sole proprietorships, partnerships, and S corporations must pay if it exceeds $1,000. The quarterly due dates for 2025 are April 15, June 17, September 16, and January 15, 2026. Missing these deadlines can lead to additional charges. The IRS encourages prompt payments to avoid underpayment penalties, highlighting the importance of staying current with your obligations to protect your business’s financial health. How to Apply for a Tax Extension Applying for a tax extension is a straightforward process that can provide you with extra time to file your tax return. For partnerships and S corporations, you’ll need to file IRS Form 7004 by March 17, 2025. Sole proprietors and C corporations must submit Form 4868 by April 15, 2025. These extensions grant you an additional six months, shifting due dates to September 15, 2025, for partnerships and S corporations, and October 15, 2025, for sole proprietors and C corporations. Keep in mind that although extensions extend your filing deadline, they don’t change the payment due date; you must still pay estimated taxes on time to avoid penalties. Applications for extensions can be submitted online, so make sure your forms are filled out accurately to avoid complications with the IRS. Some individuals might automatically qualify for extensions, but all business types should be mindful of their specific deadlines and requirements. Selecting the Right Tax Designation for Your LLC When determining the right tax designation for your LLC, it’s essential to understand the various options available and how they impact your business’s tax obligations. LLCs can choose to be taxed as a sole proprietorship, partnership, S corporation, or C corporation. Each option has different implications for income reporting and tax liabilities. Tax Designation Description Sole Proprietorship Single-owner LLCs report income on Schedule C. Partnership Multi-owner LLCs file Form 1065 by March 15. S Corporation Must file IRS Form 2553; deadline for 2025 is March 17, 2025. To elect taxation as a corporation or disregarded entity, you must file IRS Form 8832 within 75 days of formation or the start of the fiscal year. Consulting a CPA or tax professional can help you choose the best option for your LLC. Special Considerations for First-Year LLCs First-year LLCs face unique challenges regarding their tax obligations and filing requirements. Depending on their chosen tax classification, they must file federal income tax returns accordingly. For instance, if your LLC is treated as a partnership, you’ll need to file Form 1065 by March 15. If it’s a single-member LLC, you’ll report income on Schedule C of Form 1040, due by April 15. If you expect to owe more than $1,000 in taxes, don’t forget to start making quarterly estimated tax payments, with the first due on April 15 of the following tax year. Furthermore, if you want to elect corporate taxation, you must file IRS Form 8832 within 75 days of formation, which impacts your filing deadlines. It’s crucial to consult a tax professional to navigate these specific requirements and deadlines effectively, ensuring compliance and avoiding penalties. State-Specific Tax Filing Requirements Grasping state-specific tax filing requirements is essential for LLC owners, as these regulations can differ greatly from one state to another. Some states require LLCs to file annual reports alongside their tax returns, whereas others don’t mandate such filings. Furthermore, many states set their own deadlines for tax filings, which often don’t align with federal deadlines, making it critical to check local regulations. Moreover, certain states impose a minimum franchise tax or annual fee that all LLCs must pay, regardless of income, with specific due dates. You may likewise need to submit supplementary forms or documentation depending on your business type, highlighting the significance of grasping local laws. Staying informed about these state-specific requirements helps you avoid penalties and guarantees compliance with both state and federal regulations. Make it a priority to research your state’s rules to keep your LLC in good standing. Tips for Staying Compliant With Tax Deadlines Staying compliant with tax deadlines is crucial for keeping your LLC in good standing and avoiding unnecessary penalties. For multi-owner LLCs, make sure you file Form 1065 by March 15. If you’re a single-owner LLC, attach Schedule C to your Form 1040 by April 15. Don’t forget to make timely quarterly estimated tax payments on April 15, June 17, September 16, and January 15, especially if your tax liability exceeds $1,000. If you need more time, use IRS Form 7004 to apply for a six-month extension, but submit it by the original due date. Keep in mind that state tax deadlines may vary, so check your state’s requirements. To stay organized, mark all relevant tax deadlines in your calendar, including payroll tax due dates and the January 31 deadline for providing 1099 forms to recipients. This proactive approach can help you avoid compliance issues. Resources for LLC Tax Filing Assistance Comprehending your tax obligations is a key part of running an IRS website, which offers detailed guidelines on tax filing deadlines and forms customized to your business structure. Partnering with a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) can likewise be invaluable, as they help navigate complex tax regulations and guarantee compliance with critical filing dates. Furthermore, the IRS provides various resources, such as publications and forms, designed to clarify your tax responsibilities. You might also consider using online tax preparation services that streamline the filing process, making it easier to meet deadlines and avoid penalties. Finally, local small business development centers often host workshops and provide one-on-one consultations for LLC owners seeking tax filing guidance. Utilizing these resources can meaningfully ease the burden of tax compliance for your LLC. Frequently Asked Questions What Is the IRS Filing Date for LLC? The IRS filing date for your LLC depends on its classification. If it’s a single-owner LLC, you’ll file by April 15, reporting income on Schedule C with your Form 1040. For multi-owner LLCs, the deadline is March 15, requiring Form 1065. If your LLC has elected S corporation status, you’ll likewise file by March 15 using Form 1120S. What Is My LLC Start Date? Your LLC start date is vital, as it marks when your business officially exists. Typically, this date is when you file your Articles of Organization with your state. It’s important to document this date, as it affects your tax filing deadlines and compliance with regulations. If you choose to file as a corporation, this date likewise influences your taxable year. Always keep records of your start date for future reference. How Do I Know My LLC Tax Year? To know your LLC’s tax year, check its default classification. Most LLCs use a calendar year, ending December 31, except you’ve elected a fiscal year by filing IRS Form 8832. If you’ve chosen a fiscal year, your year ends on a date other than December 31. Comprehending your LLC’s tax year is crucial for meeting filing deadlines and ensuring compliance with IRS regulations, helping you avoid potential penalties. What Is the Filing Date for Business Taxes? The filing date for business taxes varies based on your LLC’s tax classification. If you have a single-owner LLC, you’ll file using Schedule C with Form 1040 by April 15. For multi-owner LLCs, the deadline is March 15 with Form 1065. If your LLC is taxed as an S Corporation, you’ll likewise file by March 15 using Form 1120S. C Corporations must file Form 1120 by April 15, with extensions available. Conclusion In summary, comprehending your LLC’s tax structure is essential for meeting filing deadlines correctly. Whether you’re a single-member LLC or a multi-member partnership, each structure has specific requirements and due dates. Remember to check for any extensions and state-specific regulations that may apply. Staying organized and aware of these deadlines will help guarantee compliance and avoid penalties. For further assistance, consider seeking professional tax advice customized to your LLC’s unique situation. Image via Google Gemini This article, "How to Determine Your LLC Tax File Date" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

The industry reported $275 million in losses from internet crimes last year, a 59% annual increase as losses nationwide surpassed $20 billion. View the full article

Want more housing market stories from Lance Lambert’s ResiClub in your inbox? Subscribe to the ResiClub newsletter. KB Home announced on Thursday that it will relocate its corporate headquarters from Los Angeles to Tempe, Arizona, beginning in spring 2027. The builder, which has a $3 billion market capitalization, said the new headquarters in the Phoenix metro area will bring executive leadership and key corporate functions into a more centralized, lower-cost operating environment. While the giant homebuilder—ranked No. 526 on the Fortune 1000—emphasized that it will maintain a significant presence in California (in particular in San Bernardino County, CA)—a state where it currently operates six divisions and more than 100 active communities—the move reflects a broader shift in where large homebuilders are increasingly doing business. On one hand, the cost-saving move reflects how homebuilders are tightening operations after several years of margin compression during this softer post-boom period. On the other hand, it underscores how the geographic center of U.S. homebuilding has shifted over the past decade—and where it may continue to shift in the years ahead. KB Home’s own construction footprint illustrates the trend. Back in 2012, KB Home built nearly four times as many homes in Los Angeles County as it did in Maricopa County, Arizona. Today, that dynamic has flipped dramatically: KB Home’s annual home closings in Maricopa County are now nearly eight times higher than its closings in Los Angeles County, according to data pulled from the ResiClub Terminal. “This move brings our teams together in a more collaborative environment, and Phoenix is the right place to do it . . . It positions KB Home to operate more effectively and supports the next phase of our growth,” wrote Robert McGibney, CEO of KB Home, in a press release published on Thursday. KB Home’s steady shift in production from a market like L.A. to Phoenix also reflects the broader migration of homebuilding activity toward high population growth areas in Arizona, Alabama, Florida, Idaho, Texas, South Carolina, North Carolina, Utah, and Tennessee. Metro areas like Phoenix have seen stronger population growth, more available land, and fewer regulatory constraints compared to coastal California markets where land costs, permitting timelines, and development regulations are often far more restrictive. For national homebuilders, those structural differences increasingly influence where capital gets deployed. To see where America’s core homebuilding markets are concentrated, look at the ResiClub map below. When you look at the map above, you might notice the similarity it has with the map we share frequently showing how active inventory across the nation compares to pre-pandemic 2019 levels. In ResiClub’s view, during this post-Pandemic Housing Boom period—where there’s some downward pressure on home prices—markets with an abundance of new home supply have experienced additional softening pressures. When they have the margins to do so, builders are often willing to offer larger affordability incentives (sometimes even lowering net effective prices) to maintain sales in a shifted market. That’s exactly what we’ve seen in many pockets of the country during this period, and when it happens, it puts additional cooling pressure on the resale market. Some buyers who would have previously considered existing homes are now opting for new homes with more favorable deals, adding further upward pressure on resale inventory. That alone doesn’t fully explain the current housing market bifurcation, but it’s a piece of the puzzle. According to ResiClub statistical analysis in July 2025, there’s a modest or moderate correlation (R² = 0.31) between recent single-family permitting levels and active inventory climbing above pre-pandemic 2019 levels. View the full article