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In terms of improving customer satisfaction, selecting the right survey company is crucial. The top companies specialize in scientifically sound methodologies and customizable options, which can provide you with actionable insights. You’ll find that firms like Interaction Metrics and Beyond Feedback stand out for their advanced analytics and real-time feedback capabilities. Exploring the benefits of these partnerships can lead to meaningful improvements in your customer experience strategy, setting the stage for long-term loyalty. Key Takeaways Interaction Metrics leads with scientific survey methodologies ensuring reliable results and real-time data access for timely strategy adjustments. Beyond Feedback offers customizable survey programs with options for real-time monitoring and national benchmarking across various deployment channels. Satrix Solutions specializes in personalized reports and unbiased market research tailored for B2B experiences, enhancing customer insights. Confero excels in mystery shopping and customer surveys, providing custom dashboard views for effective data interpretation. Amplitude Research employs Ph.D. statisticians for thorough analysis, delivering scientifically valid insights for informed decision-making. How We Picked the Best Companies When evaluating the best customer satisfaction survey companies, we focused on a thorough analysis of their service offerings to guarantee they meet industry standards for data integrity and validity. Our selection process prioritized firms that provide actionable customer feedback on companies, enabling businesses to improve their customer experiences. We examined each company’s ability to deliver scientifically valid insights, which is vital for making informed decisions. Additionally, we emphasized advanced analytics capabilities and customizable survey options, assuring these Qualtrics survey companies could cater to diverse needs. Customer reviews and satisfaction ratings played a significant role in our evaluations, highlighting the effectiveness and reliability of the services provided. The final list reflects a broad range of expertise and specialization in customer experience surveys across various industries, showcasing both top picks and honorable mentions. This careful selection assures that you have access to the best tools for comprehending and enhancing your business’s customer satisfaction. Winner: Interaction Metrics When it pertains to comprehending customer satisfaction, Interaction Metrics stands out with its scientific survey methodology that guarantees reliable results. You’ll appreciate the real-time data access, which allows you to track trends and make timely adjustments to your strategies. Plus, their commitment to bias mitigation techniques means you can trust the insights you receive, helping you improve the customer experience effectively. Scientific Survey Methodology Grasping scientific survey methodology is crucial for businesses aiming to gather reliable customer feedback, as it directly impacts the quality of insights derived from surveys. Interaction Metrics, a leader among customer satisfaction research companies, employs a rigorous approach by screening survey questions for over 20 types of bias. This not only improves the reliability of results but likewise guarantees data integrity. As one of the top survey companies, they offer full-service survey design and implementation starting at $850, allowing businesses to focus on actionable insights. Real-Time Data Access Accessing real-time data is increasingly vital for businesses seeking to improve customer satisfaction. Interaction Metrics stands out among companies that conduct surveys because of its instant access to survey results. Here’s how their service can benefit your business: Real-Time Dashboards: Get actionable insights immediately after collecting feedback, allowing you to optimize customer experiences quickly. Timely Interventions: Respond swiftly to customer feedback, enhancing satisfaction and loyalty. Comprehensive Services: With full-service survey design starting at $850, you’ll receive data collection, text analysis, and real-time reporting, ensuring reliability and validity. Bias Mitigation Techniques To guarantee that customer feedback accurately reflects true sentiments, businesses must prioritize bias mitigation techniques in their survey designs. Interaction Metrics shines in this area by screening survey questions for over 20 types of bias, ensuring data integrity. They use scientifically valid methodologies that minimize response bias, providing trustworthy insights. Their transparent pricing and full-service survey design make it easier for businesses to access reliable information. With real-time dashboards, you can quickly track survey results and identify potential biases. This thorough approach allows for action-oriented feedback, leading to better decision-making. Bias Type Mitigation Technique Social Desirability Anonymity in responses Acquiescence Balanced question phrasing Order Effects Randomized answer options Sampling Bias Diverse participant selection Confirmation Bias Neutral question framing Runner Up: Beyond Feedback In terms of gathering customer insights, Beyond Feedback offers customized survey programs that meet your specific business needs. With options for real-time monitoring and national benchmarking, you can easily compare your performance against competitors as you adapt your approach based on immediate feedback. This level of customization and flexibility guarantees that you gain valuable insights to improve customer experiences. Custom Survey Programs Custom survey programs play a crucial role in helping businesses gather meaningful customer feedback customized to their specific needs. Beyond Feedback stands out by offering customized customer experience survey programs that guarantee relevant insights. Here are three key features that can benefit your business: Multiple Deployment Channels: You can collect feedback via email, SMS, or phone, allowing for diverse responses. National Benchmarking Services: Compare your results against competitors to improve your market comprehension. Expert Guidance: Receive assistance with survey design and program development, confirming your surveys resonate with your target audience. Real-time Insight Monitoring Real-time insight monitoring has become essential for businesses aiming to stay responsive to customer feedback. With Beyond Feedback’s platform, you can access fully customized customer experience surveys deployed through email, SMS, or phone, ensuring you reach customers on their preferred channels. This flexibility improves the likelihood of receiving valuable feedback. The real-time reporting features allow you to monitor insights as they come in, enabling timely adjustments based on customer responses. Additionally, the platform supports both online and offline reporting, so you can access insights anytime and anywhere. National Benchmarking Comparison National benchmarking comparison is a critical tool for businesses looking to gauge their customer satisfaction levels against industry standards and competitors. With Beyond Feedback, you can access customized survey programs that fit your specific needs. Here are three key features of their national benchmarking services: Custom Surveys: Design your surveys to target particular aspects of customer experience, ensuring relevance to your goals. Flexible Deployment: Reach your customers effectively through various channels, including email, SMS, and phone, based on their preferences. Comprehensive Reporting: Utilize both online and offline reporting capabilities for real-time insights, enabling informed decision-making. Honorable Mentions In the domain of customer satisfaction surveys, several companies stand out for their exceptional services and commitment to enhancing the customer experience. Satrix Solutions, for instance, offers personalized reports and unbiased market research, focusing on B2B customer experiences to provide customized solutions that meet specific business needs. Meanwhile, Confero thrives in mystery shopping and customer surveys, providing unlimited custom dashboard views that facilitate detailed performance analysis and business intelligence. Amplitude Research employs Ph.D. statisticians to guarantee thorough analysis across diverse survey types, enhancing the validity and reliability of customer feedback insights. Even though Drive Research collaborates with major brands to deliver actionable insights, it does face criticism for its lack of transparent pricing, which may complicate decision-making for potential clients. Each of these J.D. Power companies prioritizes actionable insights, making them worthy of honorable mentions in the customer satisfaction survey sector. Benefits of Partnering With Survey Companies Partnering with SurveyMonkey can considerably improve your business’s decision-making processes by providing actionable insights directly from your customers. These insights allow you to identify trends and understand specific customer needs, paving the way for informed strategies that drive growth. Additionally, the ability to customize surveys guarantees that you gather relevant data, finally enhancing your overall customer satisfaction. Actionable Insights Generation When businesses collaborate with customer survey companies, they gain access to a wealth of actionable insights that can markedly influence product development and service improvements. These insights can lead to increased customer satisfaction and loyalty. Here are three key benefits: Reliable Data: Survey companies use scientifically valid methodologies to minimize bias, ensuring the data you receive is trustworthy. Trend Analysis: Advanced analytics capabilities can uncover patterns in customer behavior, helping you align your offerings with consumer needs. Real-Time Feedback: Collecting feedback through web, mobile, and SMS allows you to respond quickly to customer sentiments and make continuous improvements. Enhanced Decision-Making Processes Effective decision-making in business hinges on having access to accurate and relevant information, and working with customer survey companies can greatly improve this process. These companies provide scientifically valid insights, ensuring data integrity and actionable feedback that drives informed decisions. With real-time dashboards and analytics, you can track customer satisfaction trends and quickly adapt to changing consumer preferences. Advanced analytics capabilities reveal deep trends within customer feedback, enabling you to refine your products and services effectively. By automating feedback collection through multiple channels, you can reach a broader audience, enhancing your comprehension of customer needs. In addition, access to national benchmarking helps you compare your performance against competitors, facilitating strategic planning and targeted improvement efforts for your business. Criteria for Selecting Survey Companies Selecting the right survey company requires careful consideration of several key criteria to guarantee you gather meaningful insights from your customers. Here are three crucial factors to keep in mind: Diverse Feedback Channels: Choose a company that offers multiple ways to collect responses, such as web, mobile, SMS, email, and in-app formats. This variety helps you reach more customers. Advanced Analytics: Look for a platform that provides robust analytics capabilities. It’s important that they go beyond basic statistics to uncover actionable insights and trends, allowing you to make informed decisions. Customization and Integration: Confirm the platform allows you to tailor surveys to fit your audience and business objectives. Furthermore, consider how well the survey data can integrate with your existing systems for better collaboration. Range of Feedback Channels How can businesses effectively gather insights from their customers? Utilizing a range of feedback channels is crucial. Effective customer survey companies employ various platforms, including web, mobile, SMS, email, and in-app surveys, guaranteeing you connect with customers in their preferred environments. These platforms often support offline feedback options, capturing insights from customers without internet access. By offering diverse channels, you can maximize engagement and response rates, leading to a more thorough comprehension of customer sentiment. Advanced survey tools allow smooth integration of feedback collection across these platforms, enabling you to consolidate data for better analysis. The flexibility in feedback channels not only broadens your audience reach but likewise provides richer qualitative insights into customer experiences and preferences. This multi-channel approach guarantees you receive valuable feedback that can drive improvements and improve customer satisfaction, eventually benefiting your business. Analytics Capabilities With a solid foundation in gathering feedback through various channels, businesses can leverage analytics capabilities to turn that data into actionable insights. Advanced analytics allow you to identify trends and improve decision-making processes. Here are some key features to evaluate: Multi-dimensional analysis: Dissect customer feedback into various segments for targeted improvements. AI-powered tools: Automate the processing of large volumes of survey data, greatly reducing the time needed to glean insights. Real-time dashboards: Access immediate survey results, facilitating quick adjustments in strategy based on customer feedback. Additionally, integrating survey data with other analytical tools provides a more all-encompassing grasp of customer experiences across multiple touchpoints. This integration enriches the insights you gain, enabling your business to adapt effectively to customer needs and expectations. Embracing these analytics capabilities can greatly improve your company’s performance and customer satisfaction. Customization Options Customization options in customer satisfaction surveys play a crucial role in improving the relevance and effectiveness of the feedback collected. By customizing questions and formats, you can align surveys with your specific objectives and audience needs. Companies like Interaction Metrics and Beyond Feedback provide fully personalized survey programs, allowing you to design unique questions and reports based on your goals. Advanced platforms often include pre-built templates that can be adjusted quickly, making survey creation easier. Additionally, adaptive questioning enables follow-up questions based on previous responses, offering deeper insights into customer satisfaction. Segmenting survey responses by demographics or behavior patterns further improves effectiveness, revealing targeted insights that can inform your business strategies. Customization Feature Benefit Customized Questions Aligns with specific objectives Pre-built Templates Speeds up survey creation Adaptive Questioning Provides deeper insights Response Segmentation Delivers targeted insights Pricing Considerations When evaluating customer satisfaction survey services, it’s crucial to take into account pricing alongside the value offered. Grasping pricing can help you choose the right service without overspending. Here are three key considerations: Service Type: Full-service survey design and implementation can start at around $850, as seen with companies like Interaction Metrics, whereas platforms like Zonka Feedback offer competitive rates at $20 per user per month. Customization: Many companies, such as Beyond Feedback, provide flexible pricing options that allow for personalized reporting and multi-channel deployment, which can add value to your investment. Quality of Features: More advanced platforms, like SurveyMonkey, may have higher costs but often justify them with superior analytics and support, making them more suitable for startups and small businesses seeking extensive insights. Assess these factors carefully to guarantee you get the best value for your investment. Frequently Asked Questions What Company Has the Best Customer Satisfaction? When determining which company has the best customer satisfaction, Chick-fil-A often stands out, consistently achieving high scores, like their ACSI score of 83 in 2024. Publix Super Markets likewise ranks highly in grocery service, reflecting their commitment to customer value. Companies like Costco and Zappos excel by offering exceptional service and strong return policies, nurturing loyalty. These businesses prioritize customer experience, leading to high satisfaction ratings across various surveys. What Are the Top Survey Companies? When looking for top survey companies, consider options like Interaction Metrics, known for scientifically valid surveys and transparent pricing. Beyond Feedback offers customized programs and national benchmarking. Satrix Solutions specializes in B2B research, providing personalized insights. Confero focuses on mystery shopping and customer surveys, enabling detailed analysis through custom dashboards. Finally, Amplitude Research employs Ph.D. statisticians for rigorous survey administration and personalized insights, ensuring you get thorough data to inform your decisions. What Are the 3 C’s of Customer Satisfaction? The 3 C’s of customer satisfaction are Communication, Consistency, and Customer Service. Effective Communication means you listen to feedback and respond quickly, improving customer experience. Consistency guarantees customers receive the same quality service every time, which builds trust. High-quality Customer Service involves knowledgeable staff who resolve issues efficiently, leading to greater customer retention. Companies excelling in these areas often enjoy higher loyalty and sales growth, reflecting their commitment to satisfying their customers. What Are the Best Customer Satisfaction Survey Questions? To create effective customer satisfaction surveys, include a mix of quantitative and qualitative questions. Use metrics like Net Promoter Score (NPS) and Customer Satisfaction Score (CSAT) to measure overall satisfaction. Incorporate open-ended questions, such as “What can we do to improve your experience?” for specific feedback. Moreover, implement a scale for ratings on service aspects and demographic questions to identify trends. Regularly review your questions to guarantee they capture customer expectations accurately. Conclusion Choosing the right company for customer satisfaction surveys can greatly impact your business’s success. By partnering with leaders like Interaction Metrics and Beyond Feedback, you gain access to advanced methodologies, customizable options, and real-time analytics. These tools provide you with actionable insights that help you understand customer needs and improve satisfaction. As you explore your options, consider factors like feedback channels, analytics capabilities, and pricing to make certain you select a partner that aligns with your goals. Image via Google Gemini and ArtSmart This article, "Top 10 Companies for Customer Satisfaction Surveys to Boost Your Business" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

In relation to managing payroll for your small business, choosing the right solution is essential for efficiency and compliance. Various providers like Gusto, ADP, and OnPay offer features that can simplify your payroll process, such as automated tax calculations and seamless integrations with accounting software. Comprehending these options will help you select a service that aligns with your business needs, but what specific features should you prioritize for peak performance? Key Takeaways Gusto is highly rated for its integrated payroll and HR solutions, featuring unlimited payroll runs and automatic tax management. ADP RUN is recognized for its robust reporting and compliance management, ideal for businesses of all sizes. QuickBooks Payroll seamlessly combines accounting and payroll functions, offering automated tax calculations and unlimited payroll runs. OnPay provides a cost-effective solution with a flat monthly rate and user-friendly features, including free initial data entry assistance. Payroll software can save businesses an average of four hours each month through automation and streamlined processes. Top Payroll Services for Small Businesses in 2025 In 2025, numerous payroll services are available to help small businesses manage their payroll needs efficiently. Gusto stands out as the best payroll software for small business, rated 4.6 by over 4,139 users, thanks to features like unlimited payroll runs and automatic tax filing. If you’re looking for detailed financial insights, ADP RUN, rated 4.2, offers robust reporting and compliance management, making it a strong choice. QuickBooks Payroll, in addition rated 4.2, integrates seamlessly with existing accounting software, appealing to those already using QuickBooks. OnPay, rated 4.5, proves to be a cost-effective option at a flat rate of $36 plus $4 per employee, perfect for small businesses on a budget. Finally, Justworks combines payroll outsourcing with HR analytics, rated 4.2, and starts at $50 plus $6 per person, making it ideal for businesses seeking extensive services. ADP Review: Best Overall Payroll Provider When considering payroll solutions, ADP stands out as the best overall provider due to its thorough full-service payroll offerings that cater to businesses of all sizes. Known as one of the best payroll services, ADP provides automated payroll processing and tax calculations, ensuring accuracy and compliance with federal, state, and local regulations. Its RUN service utilizes AI-powered error detection to reduce payroll mistakes, whereas one-on-one support from HR professionals improves your experience. ADP’s platform includes advanced HR tools and is scalable, making it the best payroll company for small business in addition to larger enterprises. The mobile app allows you and your employees to manage payroll tasks conveniently from your devices, adding to its accessibility. Moreover, ADP’s commitment to compliance management helps you avoid IRS and state tax agency penalties, reducing the inherent risks associated with payroll processing. Gusto Review: Integrated Payroll and HR Solutions Gusto shines as a top choice for integrated payroll and HR solutions, particularly for small to medium-sized businesses. With a 4.5 rating, it’s recognized as the best payroll for small business, processing millions in payroll monthly for over 400,000 clients. Gusto offers unlimited payroll runs and next-day direct deposit, ensuring timely employee payments. Feature Details Benefits Pricing Starts at $49/month + $6/employee Affordable with no hidden fees Payroll Tax Management Automatic calculation and filing Minimizes compliance risks Integration Seamless with 20+ accounting platforms Saves an average of 4 hours/month As one of the top rated payroll services, Gusto’s transparent pricing and flexible subscriptions make it one of the best payroll solutions available. It streamlines payroll data management, making it easier for you to focus on your business. QuickBooks Review: Accounting and Payroll Integration For businesses seeking a robust solution that combines accounting and payroll functions, QuickBooks Payroll stands out as an efficient choice. This software integrates seamlessly with QuickBooks Online, allowing you to manage payroll alongside your accounting needs. Here are some key features that make it one of the best payroll solutions: Automated tax calculations and compliance support minimize penalties from payroll errors. Unlimited payroll runs let you process payroll as often as needed without extra charges. Time tracking integrations streamline payroll preparation by importing hours worked directly into payroll calculations. Customer support is available via phone during business hours. You furthermore get 24/7 chat support from payroll experts for any inquiries. OnPay Review: Affordable and User-Friendly Payroll If you’re looking for an affordable payroll solution, OnPay stands out with its flat rate of $36 per month plus $4 per employee. The platform’s user-friendly features, like automated tax calculations and employee self-service options, simplify the payroll process for small businesses. Plus, with excellent customer support available during weekdays, you’ll have the assistance you need to manage your payroll effectively. Pricing and Plans OnPay stands out with its simple pricing model, charging a flat rate of $36 per month plus $4 for each employee, making it an affordable choice for small businesses. This transparent structure helps you manage payroll costs effectively without surprises. Here are some key aspects of OnPay‘s pricing: No hidden fees: You won’t encounter unexpected charges. Unlimited payroll runs: Process payroll as often as you need without extra costs. User-friendly setup: Experts handle the setup at no additional charge. Automated tax calculations: Stay compliant with ease. Multi-state payroll support: Manage payroll across different states seamlessly. With no long-term contracts required, you can adjust your plan monthly as your business needs change. User-Friendly Features Managing payroll doesn’t have to be a complicated process, especially with the user-friendly features OnPay offers. You’ll appreciate the intuitive dashboard that gives you a clear overview of your payroll status, making management straightforward. With electronic storage for employee documents, record-keeping becomes hassle-free, allowing easy access for both you and your employees. OnPay’s pricing structure is similarly appealing, featuring a flat rate of just $36 per month plus $4 for each employee. Additionally, their experts handle the initial data entry at no extra cost, simplifying your setup. Should you need assistance, customer support is available via phone and chat during weekdays, ensuring you can resolve any issues quickly and efficiently. SurePayroll Review: Customizable Payroll Solutions SurePayroll stands out in the domain of payroll solutions by offering customizable payroll reports that cater to the unique needs of businesses. This flexibility allows you to tailor your payroll data particularly for your organization, making it easier to manage. Key features of SurePayroll include: Support for various employee types, including full-time, part-time, and contractors Integrated benefits management, allowing seamless handling of employee benefits alongside payroll Access to customer support via phone, email, and chat during weekdays Affordable payroll processing and tax handling, designed particularly for small businesses User-friendly interface that simplifies payroll management With SurePayroll, you can efficiently adapt your payroll processes to fit your company’s structure and needs. This service, a part of Paychex, guarantees that even small businesses can manage payroll effectively without overspending. Importance of Payroll Services for Small Businesses For small businesses, grasping the importance of payroll services is crucial, especially since accurate and timely employee payments directly impact employee satisfaction. Miscalculating payroll can lead to costly penalties from tax agencies, making it imperative to manage this complex process correctly. Payroll services offer a cost-effective solution, often costing less than $100 per month for businesses with five employees, allowing you to streamline operations. By utilizing these services, you can reduce the risk of human error, guarantee timely tax payments and filings, and avoid potential legal issues. Highly rated options like Gusto and ADP Run automate tax calculations, markedly cutting down the time spent on payroll tasks. On average, the right payroll solution can save you about four hours each month, freeing you to focus on growth and enhancing operational efficiency instead of getting bogged down by administrative burdens. Pricing Structure of Payroll Services Comprehending the pricing structure of payroll services is crucial for small businesses looking to manage their finances effectively. Each service has its unique pricing model, which can impact your budget. Here’s a breakdown of some popular options: OnPay: $36 per month plus $4 per employee, with free initial data entry assistance. Gusto: Starts at $55 per month with no hidden fees, plus $6 per employee for unlimited payroll runs. QuickBooks Payroll: Base price of $50 per month, plus $6 per employee, with extra costs for bundled services. Square Payroll: Affordable at $35 per month plus $6 per employee, including unlimited payroll runs and next-day direct deposit. Remote: Charges $29 per employee per month, with costs increasing for multinational operations. User Experience and Support Features When selecting a payroll service, user experience and support features play an essential role in ensuring smooth operations for your business. Gusto stands out with its intuitive tools and flexibility, making it easy for both novice and experienced payroll managers. OnPay offers a user-friendly dashboard that provides a clear overview of payroll status, plus electronic storage for employee documents and comprehensive support for insurance benefits. ADP Run features a simple interface that excels in pay type management and integrates seamlessly with QuickBooks Online. Patriot Software emphasizes custom report generation and outstanding scheduling tools, supported by a helpful setup guide for new users. Finally, Square Payroll simplifies the process with automatic payroll runs and employee self-onboarding, which is particularly beneficial for businesses managing multistate tax filings. Selecting a service with strong user experience and support features can greatly improve your payroll management efficiency. Key Features to Look for in Payroll Software When choosing payroll software, you should focus on features that improve automation and accuracy, such as automated tax calculations and unlimited payroll runs. Integration with HR tools can further simplify your processes by managing benefits and time tracking in one platform. Moreover, robust customer support is essential, as it guarantees you have help available whenever payroll issues arise. Automation and Accuracy Effective payroll software is vital for any business aiming to streamline its payroll process, as automation and accuracy play pivotal roles in this function. By eliminating manual calculations, automated systems considerably reduce human error, ensuring timely payments to employees. Many platforms integrate AI-powered error detection to catch discrepancies before payroll is finalized, enhancing compliance with tax regulations. Key features to look for include: Automated tax calculations and filings to avoid penalties Unlimited payroll runs for flexible scheduling without extra costs Advanced reporting capabilities for tracking payroll liabilities Support for compliance requirements in real-time Integration with other financial tools for streamlined operations Choosing software with these features can greatly improve your payroll management and overall financial health. Integration and Support Integrating payroll software with existing accounting platforms can greatly streamline your payroll process, reducing manual entry and the potential for errors. Look for solutions that seamlessly connect with tools like QuickBooks or Xero. Automated tax calculations and filings are crucial, helping you stay compliant with federal and state regulations. A user-friendly dashboard improves your experience, giving you a clear view of payroll status and employee documents. Evaluate customer support options, including phone, email, and chat, along with dedicated onboarding assistance for new users. Finally, consider the level of automation in tasks like tax rate updates and compliance changes, which saves time and mitigates the risk of human error in payroll calculations. Setting Up Payroll Services: What to Expect Setting up payroll services can seem intimidating, but grasping the process makes it much more manageable. Typically, you’ll follow a streamlined five-step wizard that helps you input company information, set pay schedules, and create employee profiles. Many payroll services, like Gusto and OnPay, offer free initial data entry assistance to guarantee a smooth onboarding experience. Here’s what to expect during the setup: Easy access to a user-friendly interface. Transparent pricing, often starting below $100/month for small businesses. Features like automated tax calculations and compliance management. Options for direct deposit to streamline payments. Ongoing support through phone, chat, or email. Once your payroll setup is complete, you’ll have the tools you need to manage employee payments effectively. Comprehending these steps will help you navigate the process with confidence. Benefits of Using Payroll Software Using payroll software can greatly improve your business operations by saving you time and increasing accuracy. With automated calculations and compliance features, you’ll reduce the risk of costly errors and legal issues. Plus, at under $100 a month for small businesses, it’s a cost-effective solution that allows you to focus on what really matters—growing your business. Time Savings and Efficiency Payroll software can save small businesses an average of four hours each month by automating essential payroll tasks such as calculations, tax filings, and data entries. By streamlining these processes, you can focus on more important business activities. Here are some key benefits of using payroll software: Automatic tax updates keep you compliant and help avoid costly penalties. Unlimited payroll runs let you manage payroll without incurring extra costs. Integrated time tracking simplifies administrative duties for your HR team. Benefits management allows for smoother employee onboarding and tracking. Dedicated customer support guarantees you can quickly resolve any issues. Enhanced Accuracy and Compliance Accurate payroll processing is crucial for any business, as even minor mistakes can lead to significant financial repercussions. By using payroll software, you minimize human error in calculations, which helps you avoid costly corrections and potential lawsuits. Many services, like Gusto and ADP, automatically update tax rates and compliance information, reducing the risk of underpayment penalties. Automated tax calculations guarantee timely payments and accurate filings, critical for compliance with federal and state laws. Furthermore, payroll solutions often track minimum wage, pay date schedules, and tax withholding rates, helping you stay aligned with changing regulations. Implementing payroll software can save you an average of four hours per month, allowing you to focus on core operations as you maintain accuracy and compliance. Cost-Effective Payroll Management Businesses often find that effective payroll management isn’t just a necessity but likewise a pathway to significant cost savings. By using payroll software, you can streamline processes and reduce costs associated with manual payroll handling. Here are some key benefits: Typically costs less than $100 per month for small businesses with five employees. Automated tax calculations help avoid IRS penalties, minimizing financial liabilities. Saves an average of 4 hours per month on payroll tasks, allowing you to focus on growth. Offers unlimited payroll runs at no extra charge, giving you flexibility. Features like AI error detection reduce human mistakes, ensuring accurate payments and compliance. Adopting payroll software can transform your payroll management into a more efficient and cost-effective solution. Comparing the Best Payroll Providers for Your Business Choosing the right payroll provider can greatly impact how efficiently you manage employee compensation and compliance. Each option has unique features customized to various business needs. Here’s a comparison to help you decide: Payroll Provider Key Features ADP RUN Rated 4.2; detailed reports, compliance Gusto Rated 4.5; integrated HR, next-day deposits QuickBooks Payroll Rated 4.2; integrates with payment systems OnPay Rated 4.5; flat rate, multi-state payroll Square Payroll Most affordable; unlimited runs, self-onboarding ADP RUN is ideal for growth-focused companies, whereas Gusto shines in payroll and HR integration. QuickBooks Payroll is best for existing QuickBooks users, and OnPay offers great value with automated tax calculations. Square Payroll is perfect for budget-conscious businesses looking for crucial features. Frequently Asked Questions Which Payroll System Is the Best? Choosing the best payroll system depends on your specific business needs. If you prioritize ease of use and HR integration, Gusto might be your best bet. For extensive reporting and compliance, consider ADP RUN. If you need strong expense management, QuickBooks Payroll is a solid choice. OnPay offers competitive flat-rate pricing, whereas Remote surpasses in global payroll capabilities. Evaluate features, pricing, and your business size to determine which system aligns best with your requirements. Who Is Better Than Paychex? When comparing payroll services, several options surpass Paychex. ADP RUN excels with its extensive HR tools and compliance management, ideal for growing businesses. Gusto offers a user-friendly experience, integrating seamlessly with over 100 apps, making it appealing for small to medium-sized enterprises. OnPay provides competitive pricing with multi-state payroll support, whereas QuickBooks Payroll integrates effectively with QuickBooks Online, enhancing convenience for existing users. Each of these alternatives presents distinct advantages over Paychex. How Much Is ADP per Month? ADP’s monthly pricing usually starts around $80, plus about $4 for each employee under their Full Service Payroll plan. The total cost varies based on the number of employees and any additional services you might need, such as HR tools or benefits management. Since ADP offers customizable options, it’s wise to request a personalized quote to guarantee you get an accurate estimate customized to your specific payroll requirements. Who Is Adp’s Biggest Competitor? ADP’s biggest competitor is Gusto, which offers an integrated payroll and HR platform customized for small and medium-sized businesses. With a strong rating of 4.5, Gusto provides transparent pricing starting at $49 per month, plus $6 per employee. Other notable competitors include QuickBooks Payroll and Paychex, both of which likewise deliver extensive payroll solutions with various features and pricing structures, catering to the diverse needs of businesses in the market. Conclusion Choosing the right payroll solution is essential for small businesses aiming to streamline operations and guarantee compliance. In 2025, platforms like ADP, Gusto, QuickBooks, and OnPay offer a range of features customized to different needs and budgets. By comprehending the unique offerings of each provider and considering key factors such as integration and cost, you can make an informed decision. In the end, investing in efficient payroll software can save you time and reduce administrative burdens, allowing you to focus on growth. Image via Google Gemini This article, "The Best Payroll Solutions" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

SurveyMonkey has recently unveiled significant enhancements to its survey platform, aiming to streamline the survey experience for users. This overhaul arrives at a pivotal time when small businesses seek efficient tools to gather customer feedback and adjust strategies rapidly. By refining the survey launch process and workflow, SurveyMonkey is positioning itself as an essential tool for small business owners who rely on customer insights to drive their operations. The new features cater to the need for speed, focus, and minimal hindrances, allowing users to prioritize what truly matters: effective data collection. Business owners can expect faster survey setup and deployment, which reduces wait times and increases the likelihood of obtaining timely feedback. This immediacy can lead to quicker decision-making—a crucial advantage for small businesses that may not have the resources to waste on lengthy survey processes. The updated platform introduces an intuitive interface that allows users to create surveys efficiently. According to SurveyMonkey’s Chief Product Officer, “Our goal is to eliminate friction in the survey process, making it easier for businesses to gather the insights they need when they need them.” This feature can be particularly beneficial for small businesses that may struggle with limited staff and time constraints. Furthermore, the enhancements also focus on targeted questions that stay relevant to the business context. Small business owners can customize their surveys to fit their specific needs, asking questions that deliver actionable insights tailored to their particular customer base. In practical terms, these improvements allow small businesses to develop customized surveys that can inform marketing strategies, product development, and customer service enhancements. Imagine a local café using the updated platform to survey customer preferences on new menu items or a boutique shop gauging customer satisfaction. The ability to launch surveys quickly and adapt to the feedback can create a more responsive business model. However, while the benefits are apparent, small business owners should also consider some potential challenges associated with the transition to this new system. For example, business owners will need to invest a bit of time training staff on the updated platform. Although the new interface is user-friendly, ensuring that employees are familiar with it will maximize its effectiveness. Furthermore, while quick feedback can be instrumental, relying solely on fast responses may lead to overlooking long-term trends. SurveyMonkey emphasizes the importance of balancing rapid insights with deeper analysis. Small business owners should consider how to interpret and act on survey results in a way that aligns with their long-term objectives. As technology continues to evolve, small business owners must also remain vigilant about adapting to new tools and workflows. While automation and streamlined processes can save time, they also require a level of diligence to ensure customer interactions remain personal and engaging. The enhancements to SurveyMonkey’s platform reflect a broader trend in the industry where data-driven decision-making is becoming more accessible to small businesses. The ongoing need for customer feedback in an increasingly competitive landscape underlines the necessity of agile survey platforms. As small business owners explore the possibilities of these new features, they can look forward to not just improved workflows, but also a renewed capacity to engage with their customers on a deeper level. Effective use of these capabilities could lead to enhanced customer satisfaction and loyalty, ultimately driving business growth. For more insights on the updates and how they can benefit your business, visit the original post at SurveyMonkey. Image via Google Gemini This article, "SurveyMonkey Unveils Enhanced, Streamlined Survey Experience for Users" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Sunday’s Grammys mark a return to normalcy after the 2025 show was altered to focus on Los Angeles-area wildfire relief efforts. “I think we will see some history-making moments,” Recording Academy CEO and President Harvey Mason jr. told The Associated Press. “With artists being nominated in categories they haven’t been previously nominated in, and a new crop of talent coming through the system this year — I think we’re going to see some really exciting results.” Here’s what you need to know about the 2026 Grammys, including how to stream and where you can see music’s biggest stars walking the red carpet. How do I watch the Grammys? The main show will air live from LA’s Crypto.com Arena on CBS beginning at 8 p.m. Eastern. Paramount+ premium plan subscribers will be able to stream the telecast live, too. (Paramount+ essential subscribers will have on-demand access the next day.) The Grammys can also be watched through live TV streaming services that include CBS in their lineup, like Hulu + Live TV, YouTube TV, and FuboTV. The Premiere Ceremony will take place ahead of the Grammys telecast, at 3:30 p.m. Eastern from the Peacock Theater. It can be streamed at the Recording Academy’s YouTube channel and on live.GRAMMY.com. Who is performing at the Grammys? The show will feature a special segment in which all eight of this year’s best new artist nominees will perform. That means Leon Thomas, Olivia Dean, global girl group Katseye, The Marías, Addison Rae, sombr, Alex Warren, and Lola Young will all share the stage before going head-to-head for one of the night’s biggest prizes. Lady Gaga, Sabrina Carpenter, Justin Bieber, Clipse, and Pharrell Williams will also perform. Reba McEntire, Brandy Clark and Lukas Nelson will take the stage for the in memoriam. Ms. Lauryn Hill will pay tribute to D’Angelo and Roberta Flack. Post Malone, Andrew Watt, Chad Smith, Duff McKagan and Slash will honor Ozzy Osbourne. Who is presenting at the Grammys? Doechii and Harry Styles are the first confirmed presenters. Who is hosting the Grammys? Comedian Trevor Noah will host the show for the sixth consecutive time — and it will be his last. “I am beyond thrilled to welcome Trevor Noah back to host the Grammys for his sixth, and sadly, final time,” Grammys’ executive producer Ben Winston said in a statement. “He’s been the most phenomenal host of the show. He’s so smart, so funny, and such a true fan of the artists and music. His impact on the show has been truly spectacular, and we can’t wait to do it together one last time.” The only other people to host six or more Grammy telecasts were musical artists: Andy Williams hosted seven shows, followed by John Denver with six. Noah previously tied LL Cool J, with five. Noah himself is a four-time Grammy nominee and is up this year in the audio book, narration, and storytelling recording category for “Into The Uncut Grass,” a children’s story. “He’s a special host. He really finds the right balance between being funny and smart and knowledgeable but also being a fan of music. And I love that. It’s so hard to find that combination,” Mason jr. said. As for his departure? “Every person at some point in their career, they decide they want to do something else,” Mason jr. said. “And we’re so appreciative of the years that we got from Trevor. He’s really helped define the show and make the show what it’s become over the last six years.” How can I watch the red carpet? The Associated Press will stream a four-hour red carpet show with interviews and fashion footage. It will be streamed on YouTube and APNews.com. Who is nominated for the Grammys? Kendrick Lamar leads the nominations with nine total. He’s up for record, song and album of the year — marking the third time he’s had simultaneous nominations in those big categories — as well as pop duo/group performance, melodic rap performance, rap song and rap album. He’s also nominated twice in the rap performance category. Lady Gaga, Jack Antonoff and Canadian record producer/songwriter Cirkut follow Lamar with seven nominations each. Thomas, Bad Bunny, Serban Ghenea and the aforementioned Carpenter all boast six nominations. Andrew Watt, Clipse, Doechii, Sounwave, SZA, Turnstile and Tyler, the Creator have five each. There are a number of first-time nominees as well this year, including Tate McRae, Zara Larsson, PinkPantheress, JID and … Timothée Chalamet. You read that correctly. ___ For more coverage of this year’s Grammy Awards, visit: www.apnews.com/hub/grammy-awards —Maria Sherman, AP music writer View the full article

A reader writes: I’m a (decently) new manager, and I’m struggling with one of my employees. They come from a freelance background but wanted stability so they applied for this job, which is a salaried role. Let’s say the hours are 9-5. We can be flexible with start times as long as it’s reasonable and we’re communicated with, but employees must work their full hours. For some reason, this employee seems to think that when their immediate work is done, it is done and they can go home. That’s not the case, and especially not so because in this line of work, work is really never done. They have many colleagues who could use a hand, and there are other things they could proactively be working on. They also seem to think it’s okay to just up and leave mid-workday without saying anything, as well as lying on timesheets. Somehow, they think it’s the done thing across the team (it is not). I brought this up with them, but they were very defensive and basically said, “Well, my output is good, so I don’t know why you have a problem.” I reiterated the importance of communication and fairness, but I really wasn’t convinced they understood and I will be having a follow-up meeting with them. I think a big problem is that they are still very much in a freelance mindset when this job is very much far from that. What do you think I should do? It sounds like you’re falling into a common new manager trap where you feel like you have to convince this employee to see things your way, but you actually don’t. You just need to be very clear about what the requirements of the job are. It’s preferable if they end up understanding your perspective and you can reach a shared understanding, but ultimately it doesn’t matter if they agree with you that these policies are reasonable because they still need to follow them. So, for example, your next conversation with them about this should sound similar to this: You: This job requires you to work a full eight hours per day. Even when your most pressing tasks for the day are done, you’re expected to stay and continue working on other projects. If you’re finished with your most urgent items, you should work on things like X, Y, or Z, or check with me for additional things you can help with. Employee: My output is good so I don’t see why this is a problem. You: This is the expectation for everyone on our team and company-wide. It’s a requirement of the job that isn’t going to change, and I do need you to adhere to it. Employee: I just don’t see why this matters. You: The role requires working full-time hours. If that’s not something you want to do, this job won’t be a good match. Do you want to think about it and let me know if the job still makes sense for you, knowing this is a requirement that isn’t going to change? That framing — think about whether it makes sense for you to stay — can make this less adversarial and push the situation toward whatever the resolution is going to end up being. You’re saying, essentially, “Here’s what the job requires, it’s absolutely fine if you decide that’s not for you, but let’s figure out if our needs are compatible or not because they may not be.” And then, after that conversation, the person person continues not to work full days, you reiterate that it’s a job requirement, explain that you won’t be able to keep them on if they don’t follow it, and tell them this is their final warning. (Before this point, you should be coordinating with your own boss or HR so that they’re looped in and you’re following whatever policies your company has about firing people.) But also, they’re lying on timesheets? That’s a fireable offense on its own, and you need to make it very clear that there’s zero tolerance for that. As in, “It’s a non-negotiable requirement of your job that your timesheets truthfully reflect the actual hours you worked each day; you cannot misrepresent them. If this happens again, I would need to let you go. Are we in agreement that you will accurately report your hours going forward?” There are many, many times — most times, really — where as a manager where it makes sense to be collaborative with people, rather than taking a top-down “this is the way it will be” approach … but this is not one of those times. This is a black and white situation that calls for you clearly stating the requirements of the job and the consequences for not meeting them, and then sticking to that. The post my employee isn’t working full-time hours, leaves mid-day, and is lying on their timesheets appeared first on Ask a Manager. View the full article

The legendary $4.99 rotisserie chickens from Costco are under fire this week as a proposed class action lawsuit claims the big box retailer has been misleading customers. Two California shoppers noticed something that might seem obvious in retrospect: To sell an entire, slow-roasted chicken in a plastic bag, Costco added two preservatives. Problem is, the Issaquah, Washington-based company had promised on the packaging, in-store displays, and online that the chicken contained “no preservatives.” The lawsuit filed last week with the Southern District claims that Costco’s promise that its rotisserie chickens contain no preservatives signals to “reasonable consumers“—like the two women who are plaintiffs in the case—that nothing was added to preserve the taste, flavor, texture, or shelflife of the product. But two preservatives—sodium phosphate and carrageenan—are listed on the ingredient list. “Costco Wholesale Corporation has systemically cheated customers out of tens—if not hundreds—of millions of dollars by falsely advertising its Kirkland Signature Seasoned Rotisserie Chicken as containing ‘no preservatives,’” the lawsuit reads, in part. “Consumers reasonably rely on clear, prominent claims like ‘No Preservatives,’ especially when deciding what they and their families will eat,” Wesley M. Griffith, the California managing partner with Almeida Law Group, which represents the plaintiffs in this lawsuit, said in a statement. “Costco’s own ingredient list contradicts its marketing. That’s unlawful, and it’s unfair.” INGREDIENTS IN FOCUS Costco has already taken steps to address the main concern of the lawsuit. “To maintain consistency among the labeling on our rotisserie chickens and the signs in our warehouses/on‑line presentations, we have removed statements concerning preservatives,” a company representative said in a statement to KTLA 5 News. “We use carrageenan and sodium phosphate to support moisture retention, texture, and product consistency during cooking. Both ingredients are approved by food safety authorities.” These ingredients have landed other big companies in hot water in the past: In late 2024, a judge ruled that Kraft Heinz must face a proposed nationwide class action lawsuit that similarly focused on the company’s use of sodium phosphate in its macaroni and cheese products. And the addition of carrageenan in products labeled as “natural” or organic has been the subject of several lawsuits in recent years. What’s more, Costco has faced criticism of its use of carrageenan in the past. The Cornucopia Institute, an organic food watchdog group, sent a letter to Costco in 2023 urging it to remove carrageenan from organic products. And the ingredient is one of many targeted by Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. SUIT SEEKS MONETARY DAMAGES In the latest lawsuit filed against Costco, the plaintiffs are seeking unspecified monetary damages, and if a judge approves a class action lawsuit, that might mean the retailer has to pay out anyone else who bought the chicken during a specified time period. Interestingly, the plaintiffs said they might have still opted to purchase the rotisserie chicken had they known about the two ingredients, but “would have paid significantly less” for it. It might be hard for some people to imagine paying even less, as Costco’s rotisserie chicken is considered a “loss leader,” meaning the company realizes very little or no profit selling it. Costco shares fell nearly 1% in mid-day trading on Thursday, extending a selloff of more than 3% in the past week. View the full article

Tax season is officially here, and as a freelancer, beware that this year brings meaningful changes that will affect how you file your 2025 tax return. With new IRS updates, inflation adjustments, and shifting deduction rules, it’s more important than ever to understand what applies to you as you prepare your 2025 return. Remember, the earlier you complete your return, the better, especially if you are expecting a refund. The IRS has announced Monday, January 26, 2026, as the opening of the federal tax filing season, with Tax Day (the day your personal 2025 return is due) slated for April 15, 2026. If you operate your freelance business as a limited liability company (LLC) multi-member LLC, or C-Corporation entity, your business return is due on the same day. If you file your freelance business taxes as an S-Corporation your business return filings due March 15, 2026. As you start collecting your freelance tax documentation, it’s important to keep the federal and state-level deductions you may be entitled to in mind. Here’s a checklist of the key federal tax deductions you may be entitled to on your 2025 tax return. Be sure to check your state tax regulations for further tax deductions and obligations you and your freelance business may be subject to. Increased Standard Deduction One of the biggest changes for tax year 2025 is the increase in the standard deduction. If you typically itemize, it’s worth checking whether the higher standard deduction is more advantageous from a tax perspective. Here are the standard deduction amounts you can claim on your 2025 tax return: Single Filers: $15,750Married Couples Filing Jointly: $31,500Head of Household: $23,625In addition, taxpayers aged 65 and older can now claim an additional $6,000 deduction per person through 2028. This senior deduction begins to phase out when MAGI (Modified Adjusted Gross Income) exceeds $75,000 ($150,000 in the case of a joint return). It will be in effect for the years 2025 through 2028. Tip Income Deduction If you work in a tipped profession (hospitality, beauty, wellness, etc.), you may deduct up to $25,000 in tip income from your federal income tax bill — due to the newly enacted “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” (OBBBA). This deduction begins to phase out with a modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) of $150,000 (for single filers) & of $300,000 (for filing jointly). It is completely phased out at $400,000 (for single filers) & $550,000 (for filing jointly). Please note that 2025 is considered as a transition year for these deductions, where employers are not required to report tips separately on tax forms until 2026, so employees/workers need to use reasonable methods to calculate their allowable deductions for 2025. For the first time, qualifying freelancers can deduct up to $25,000 in tips from their taxable income starting in tax year 2025, but as of right now, this deduction only qualifies until 2028. Key point on tip income: While you can deduct tips from your taxable income, they still count toward your self-employment tax—the 15.3% you pay for Social Security and Medicare (for the self-employed or half of this if you are employed). The 15.3% tax rate is consisting of the 12.4% for social security and the 2.9% for Medicare (hospital insurance).There might be an additional Medicare Tax of 0.9% for Medicare Tax if your wages, compensation, or self-employment income (together with that of your spouse if filing a joint return) exceed the threshold amounts as follows: $250,000 (Married Filing Jointly), $125,000 (Married Filing Separately), $200,000 (Single, Head of Household with qualifying person, or Qualifying surviving spouse with dependent child). Here’s the breakdown: Maximum Deduction: Up to $25,000 in qualified tips, but not more than your net income from the business where the tips were earned.Income Limits: The deduction phases out if your modified adjusted gross income exceeds $150,000 ($300,000 for joint filers).Qualifying Occupations: The Treasury Department’s preliminary list includes over 80 occupations across industries such as food service, personal care, entertainment, hospitality, home services, and transportation that qualify for the new tip income deduction. Some highlighted industries are:Food & Beverage: Bartenders, wait staff, cooks, dishwashers, and host staff.Personal Care & Wellness: Massage therapists, barbers, hairstylists, aestheticians, tattoo artists, and fitness instructors.Entertainment & Events: Musicians, dancers, DJs, ushers, and digital content creators (including streamers and podcasters).Home Services: Electricians, plumbers, HVAC installers, landscapers, and cleaners.Transportation & Delivery: Rideshare drivers, shuttle operators, valet attendants, and goods delivery workers.Currently, the law excludes certain trades and businesses—such as health care, performing arts, and athletics—from claiming the deduction. You must keep meticulous records of your tip income including when it was received, from which client and for what services. The SALT Deduction Cap is temporarily increased. The new “One Big Beautiful Bill” tax law temporarily raises the State and Local Tax (SALT) deduction cap. Here is a brief breakdown: Higher Deduction Limits (2025–2029): The maximum state and local tax (SALT) deduction is $40,000 for single filers, heads of household, and married couples filing jointly. This is a significant increase from previous year’s limit of $10,000. For married individuals filing separately, the new limit is $20,000.Phase-Out for High Earners: The benefit begins to phase out for taxpayers with Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGIof $500,000. The phaseout for those filing married filing separately starts at MAGI of $250,000. For every dollar over this threshold, the deduction is reduced by 30% of the excess MAGI. However, the cap cannot go below $10,000, no matter how high your income. So, taxpayers who fully phase out will still be able to deduct up to $10,000 for most tax payers, just like in previous year. Please note that just like the SALT cap, the MAGI phaseout threshold increases by 1% annually through tax year 2029. Thus, the phaseout will begin at $505,000 MAGI in 2026, $510,050 MAGI in 2027, and so on.Reversion in 2030: Unless further legislation is passed, the cap will return to $10,000 for joint filers and $5,000 for single filers.It is recommended to review whether itemizing deductions provides greater value than taking the standard deduction, especially if your SALT payments will approach the new cap in 2026. Eligible Taxes: The deduction applies to a combination of state and local property taxes, and either state and local income taxes or general sales taxes. Itemization Required: To claim the SALT deduction, you must itemize your deductions on IRS Schedule A instead of taking the standard deduction. For 2025, the standard deduction is $15,750 (single/married filing separately), $23,625 (head of household), and $31,500 (married filing jointly).Income Phaseouts: The benefit of the increased cap is reduced for higher-income earners. The $40,000 cap begins to phase out once your Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI) exceeds $500,000 for all filers (or $250,000 for married filing separately). If your MAGI reaches $600,000, the deduction is capped at the original $10,000 limit.Temporary Provision: This increased cap is temporary and is scheduled to last from tax years 2025 through 2029. The cap amount will see a 1% annual increase from 2026 to 2029 and is set to revert to $10,000 in 2030 unless Congress takes further action. New Personal Car Loan Interest Deduction for individuals is a new deduction that makes the interest on personal car loans a tax write-off ($10,000 maximum annual deduction limit under the Big Beautiful Bill’s No tax on car loan interest under Section 70203). To qualify for personal use car interest deduction, both the buyer and the vehicle must meet these specific criteria: Your Vehicle Must Be New: The deduction applies only to new (US assembled) vehicles, with the original use beginning with the taxpayer. Used vehicles and leases do not qualify.U.S. Assembly Required: The vehicle's final assembly must have occurred in the United States. You can verify this using the vehicle's window sticker, VIN, or the NHTSA VIN Decoder.Vehicle Type/Weight Limits: The vehicle must be a car, minivan, van, SUV, pickup truck, or motorcycle with a gross vehicle weight rating of less than 14,000 pounds.Personal Use: The vehicle must be purchased for personal, non-commercial use.Loan Requirements: The loan must be originated after December 31, 2024, secured by a lien on the vehicle, and the interest must be paid during the tax year.Income Limits: The full deduction is available for taxpayers with a Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI) of up to $100,000 (single filers) or $200,000 (married couples filing jointly). The deduction phases out gradually above these thresholds and disappears completely at $150,000 (single) and $250,000 (joint). Other Freelance Business Tax Deductions In addition to the key new or modified deductions above, the following items in 2025 for are deductible for your freelance business (make sure you have appropriate documentation): SoftwareMarketing expensesAttorney and other qualified professional servicesEquipment such as computers, printers and other hard goodsTravel for legitimate business purposes Business travel expenses such as airfare, lodging, etc., are 100% deductibleBusiness meals are generally 50% deductibleBusiness related Vehicle expenses can be done through either of the two methods: (1) Actual Expenses method by deducting the business – use portion of costs such as gas, oil, insurance, car repairs, & lease payments; or (2) Standard Mileage Rate method that allows a deduction of business related tolls and parking fees, and a 2025 standard mileage rate of 70 cents per business mile.Subcontractor servicesSelf-Employment Tax Deduction – you can deduct the employer-equivalent portion of 50% of your self-employment taxQualified Business Income (QBI) Deduction – eligible freelancers can deduct up to 20% of their qualified business income, plus 20% of their qualified real estate investment trust (REIT) dividends and qualified publicly traded partnership (PTP) income. Please note that income earned through a C corporation or through services as an employee is not eligible for the deduction. Determination on what qualifies as a trade or business is in the instructions of Form 8995-A or Form 8995. Please note that eligible taxpayers can use the QBI deduction regardless of whether they itemize on Schedule A or take the standard deduction. The deduction is limited to the lesser of the QBI component plus the REIT/PTP component or 20% of the taxpayer’s taxable income minus net capital gain. More details on the two components are: QBI component – equals 20% of QBI from a domestic business operating as a sole proprietorship or through S corporation, partnership, trust or estate. It is subject to limitations, depending on taxpayer’s taxable income that may include trade or business, W-2 wages paid by qualified trade or business, and unadjusted basis immediately after acquisition (UBIA) of qualified property held by trade or business. This may also be reduced by the patron reduction if the taxpayer is a patron of an agricultural/horticultural cooperative.REIT/PTP component – equals 20% of qualified REIT dividends and qualified PTP income. It is not limited by W-2 wages or the UBIA of qualified property. Based on the taxpayer’s taxable income, the amount of PTP income may however be limited depending on the type of the PTP’s trade or business.Health insurance premiums Health insurance premiums can be deducted up to 100% of the premiums paid for medical, dental, and qualifying long-term care insurance for yourself, your spouse and dependents, provided you are not eligible for an employer-sponsored plan such as through a spouse’s job), copays, and expenses. Retirement contributions Retirement contributions to qualifies retirement accounts are also tax deductible. If you have not already maximized your retirement contribution’s for 2025 in SEP IRA, SIMPLE IRA or other tax-advantaged retirement account, you can still make a contribution. Home office contributions The IRS also allows for a home office space deduction at $5 per square foot of your office space, up to a maximum of $1,500 using the IRS simplified home office deduction. To qualify, your office space must be used regularly and exclusively for work, meaning it cannot double as a personal area. This doesn’t have to be an entire room—it can be a defined section of a room—but it must be dedicated solely to business activities. In addition to exclusive use, the home office must serve as your principal place of business. The IRS offers the following two ways to calculate the deduction: The simplified method allows you to deduct $5 per square foot of office space, up to three hundred square feet, for a maximum deduction of $1,500.The actual expense method lets you deduct the business percentage of real home expenses such as rent or mortgage interest, utilities, insurance, repairs, and depreciation. This percentage is typically based on the square footage of your office relative to your home. The calculation is done on IRS Form 8829.It’s Time to Organize Your 2025 Freelance Tax Information The filing window for taxes is almost open so now is the time to make sure your freelance accounting and tax information is up to date. If you plan to work with a tax professional, reach out and make sure you have a relationship established to ensure your taxes can be filed in a timely manner. Spending a little time now to get your freelance tax information in order will allow you to file early and expedite any potential refund while giving you a head start on any additional tax moves you need to make in 2026 to reduce your tax burden. View the full article

Tax season is officially here, and as a freelancer, beware that this year brings meaningful changes that will affect how you file your 2025 tax return. With new IRS updates, inflation adjustments, and shifting deduction rules, it’s more important than ever to understand what applies to you as you prepare your 2025 return. Remember, the earlier you complete your return, the better, especially if you are expecting a refund. The IRS has announced Monday, January 26, 2026, as the opening of the federal tax filing season, with Tax Day (the day your personal 2025 return is due) slated for April 15, 2026. If you operate your freelance business as a limited liability company (LLC) multi-member LLC, or C-Corporation entity, your business return is due on the same day. If you file your freelance business taxes as an S-Corporation your business return filings due March 15, 2026. As you start collecting your freelance tax documentation, it’s important to keep the federal and state-level deductions you may be entitled to in mind. Here’s a checklist of the key federal tax deductions you may be entitled to on your 2025 tax return. Be sure to check your state tax regulations for further tax deductions and obligations you and your freelance business may be subject to. Increased Standard Deduction One of the biggest changes for tax year 2025 is the increase in the standard deduction. If you typically itemize, it’s worth checking whether the higher standard deduction is more advantageous from a tax perspective. Here are the standard deduction amounts you can claim on your 2025 tax return: Single Filers: $15,750Married Couples Filing Jointly: $31,500Head of Household: $23,625In addition, taxpayers aged 65 and older can now claim an additional $6,000 deduction per person through 2028. This senior deduction begins to phase out when MAGI (Modified Adjusted Gross Income) exceeds $75,000 ($150,000 in the case of a joint return). It will be in effect for the years 2025 through 2028. Tip Income Deduction If you work in a tipped profession (hospitality, beauty, wellness, etc.), you may deduct up to $25,000 in tip income from your federal income tax bill — due to the newly enacted “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” (OBBBA). This deduction begins to phase out with a modified adjusted gross income (MAGI) of $150,000 (for single filers) & of $300,000 (for filing jointly). It is completely phased out at $400,000 (for single filers) & $550,000 (for filing jointly). Please note that 2025 is considered as a transition year for these deductions, where employers are not required to report tips separately on tax forms until 2026, so employees/workers need to use reasonable methods to calculate their allowable deductions for 2025. For the first time, qualifying freelancers can deduct up to $25,000 in tips from their taxable income starting in tax year 2025, but as of right now, this deduction only qualifies until 2028. Key point on tip income: While you can deduct tips from your taxable income, they still count toward your self-employment tax—the 15.3% you pay for Social Security and Medicare (for the self-employed or half of this if you are employed). The 15.3% tax rate is consisting of the 12.4% for social security and the 2.9% for Medicare (hospital insurance).There might be an additional Medicare Tax of 0.9% for Medicare Tax if your wages, compensation, or self-employment income (together with that of your spouse if filing a joint return) exceed the threshold amounts as follows: $250,000 (Married Filing Jointly), $125,000 (Married Filing Separately), $200,000 (Single, Head of Household with qualifying person, or Qualifying surviving spouse with dependent child). Here’s the breakdown: Maximum Deduction: Up to $25,000 in qualified tips, but not more than your net income from the business where the tips were earned.Income Limits: The deduction phases out if your modified adjusted gross income exceeds $150,000 ($300,000 for joint filers).Qualifying Occupations: The Treasury Department’s preliminary list includes over 80 occupations across industries such as food service, personal care, entertainment, hospitality, home services, and transportation that qualify for the new tip income deduction. Some highlighted industries are:Food & Beverage: Bartenders, wait staff, cooks, dishwashers, and host staff.Personal Care & Wellness: Massage therapists, barbers, hairstylists, aestheticians, tattoo artists, and fitness instructors.Entertainment & Events: Musicians, dancers, DJs, ushers, and digital content creators (including streamers and podcasters).Home Services: Electricians, plumbers, HVAC installers, landscapers, and cleaners.Transportation & Delivery: Rideshare drivers, shuttle operators, valet attendants, and goods delivery workers.Currently, the law excludes certain trades and businesses—such as health care, performing arts, and athletics—from claiming the deduction. You must keep meticulous records of your tip income including when it was received, from which client and for what services. The SALT Deduction Cap is temporarily increased. The new “One Big Beautiful Bill” tax law temporarily raises the State and Local Tax (SALT) deduction cap. Here is a brief breakdown: Higher Deduction Limits (2025–2029): The maximum state and local tax (SALT) deduction is $40,000 for single filers, heads of household, and married couples filing jointly. This is a significant increase from previous year’s limit of $10,000. For married individuals filing separately, the new limit is $20,000.Phase-Out for High Earners: The benefit begins to phase out for taxpayers with Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGIof $500,000. The phaseout for those filing married filing separately starts at MAGI of $250,000. For every dollar over this threshold, the deduction is reduced by 30% of the excess MAGI. However, the cap cannot go below $10,000, no matter how high your income. So, taxpayers who fully phase out will still be able to deduct up to $10,000 for most tax payers, just like in previous year. Please note that just like the SALT cap, the MAGI phaseout threshold increases by 1% annually through tax year 2029. Thus, the phaseout will begin at $505,000 MAGI in 2026, $510,050 MAGI in 2027, and so on.Reversion in 2030: Unless further legislation is passed, the cap will return to $10,000 for joint filers and $5,000 for single filers.It is recommended to review whether itemizing deductions provides greater value than taking the standard deduction, especially if your SALT payments will approach the new cap in 2026. Eligible Taxes: The deduction applies to a combination of state and local property taxes, and either state and local income taxes or general sales taxes. Itemization Required: To claim the SALT deduction, you must itemize your deductions on IRS Schedule A instead of taking the standard deduction. For 2025, the standard deduction is $15,750 (single/married filing separately), $23,625 (head of household), and $31,500 (married filing jointly).Income Phaseouts: The benefit of the increased cap is reduced for higher-income earners. The $40,000 cap begins to phase out once your Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI) exceeds $500,000 for all filers (or $250,000 for married filing separately). If your MAGI reaches $600,000, the deduction is capped at the original $10,000 limit.Temporary Provision: This increased cap is temporary and is scheduled to last from tax years 2025 through 2029. The cap amount will see a 1% annual increase from 2026 to 2029 and is set to revert to $10,000 in 2030 unless Congress takes further action. New Personal Car Loan Interest Deduction for individuals is a new deduction that makes the interest on personal car loans a tax write-off ($10,000 maximum annual deduction limit under the Big Beautiful Bill’s No tax on car loan interest under Section 70203). To qualify for personal use car interest deduction, both the buyer and the vehicle must meet these specific criteria: Your Vehicle Must Be New: The deduction applies only to new (US assembled) vehicles, with the original use beginning with the taxpayer. Used vehicles and leases do not qualify.U.S. Assembly Required: The vehicle's final assembly must have occurred in the United States. You can verify this using the vehicle's window sticker, VIN, or the NHTSA VIN Decoder.Vehicle Type/Weight Limits: The vehicle must be a car, minivan, van, SUV, pickup truck, or motorcycle with a gross vehicle weight rating of less than 14,000 pounds.Personal Use: The vehicle must be purchased for personal, non-commercial use.Loan Requirements: The loan must be originated after December 31, 2024, secured by a lien on the vehicle, and the interest must be paid during the tax year.Income Limits: The full deduction is available for taxpayers with a Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI) of up to $100,000 (single filers) or $200,000 (married couples filing jointly). The deduction phases out gradually above these thresholds and disappears completely at $150,000 (single) and $250,000 (joint). Other Freelance Business Tax Deductions In addition to the key new or modified deductions above, the following items in 2025 for are deductible for your freelance business (make sure you have appropriate documentation): SoftwareMarketing expensesAttorney and other qualified professional servicesEquipment such as computers, printers and other hard goodsTravel for legitimate business purposes Business travel expenses such as airfare, lodging, etc., are 100% deductibleBusiness meals are generally 50% deductibleBusiness related Vehicle expenses can be done through either of the two methods: (1) Actual Expenses method by deducting the business – use portion of costs such as gas, oil, insurance, car repairs, & lease payments; or (2) Standard Mileage Rate method that allows a deduction of business related tolls and parking fees, and a 2025 standard mileage rate of 70 cents per business mile.Subcontractor servicesSelf-Employment Tax Deduction – you can deduct the employer-equivalent portion of 50% of your self-employment taxQualified Business Income (QBI) Deduction – eligible freelancers can deduct up to 20% of their qualified business income, plus 20% of their qualified real estate investment trust (REIT) dividends and qualified publicly traded partnership (PTP) income. Please note that income earned through a C corporation or through services as an employee is not eligible for the deduction. Determination on what qualifies as a trade or business is in the instructions of Form 8995-A or Form 8995. Please note that eligible taxpayers can use the QBI deduction regardless of whether they itemize on Schedule A or take the standard deduction. The deduction is limited to the lesser of the QBI component plus the REIT/PTP component or 20% of the taxpayer’s taxable income minus net capital gain. More details on the two components are: QBI component – equals 20% of QBI from a domestic business operating as a sole proprietorship or through S corporation, partnership, trust or estate. It is subject to limitations, depending on taxpayer’s taxable income that may include trade or business, W-2 wages paid by qualified trade or business, and unadjusted basis immediately after acquisition (UBIA) of qualified property held by trade or business. This may also be reduced by the patron reduction if the taxpayer is a patron of an agricultural/horticultural cooperative.REIT/PTP component – equals 20% of qualified REIT dividends and qualified PTP income. It is not limited by W-2 wages or the UBIA of qualified property. Based on the taxpayer’s taxable income, the amount of PTP income may however be limited depending on the type of the PTP’s trade or business.Health insurance premiums Health insurance premiums can be deducted up to 100% of the premiums paid for medical, dental, and qualifying long-term care insurance for yourself, your spouse and dependents, provided you are not eligible for an employer-sponsored plan such as through a spouse’s job), copays, and expenses. Retirement contributions Retirement contributions to qualifies retirement accounts are also tax deductible. If you have not already maximized your retirement contribution’s for 2025 in SEP IRA, SIMPLE IRA or other tax-advantaged retirement account, you can still make a contribution. Home office contributions The IRS also allows for a home office space deduction at $5 per square foot of your office space, up to a maximum of $1,500 using the IRS simplified home office deduction. To qualify, your office space must be used regularly and exclusively for work, meaning it cannot double as a personal area. This doesn’t have to be an entire room—it can be a defined section of a room—but it must be dedicated solely to business activities. In addition to exclusive use, the home office must serve as your principal place of business. The IRS offers the following two ways to calculate the deduction: The simplified method allows you to deduct $5 per square foot of office space, up to three hundred square feet, for a maximum deduction of $1,500.The actual expense method lets you deduct the business percentage of real home expenses such as rent or mortgage interest, utilities, insurance, repairs, and depreciation. This percentage is typically based on the square footage of your office relative to your home. The calculation is done on IRS Form 8829.It’s Time to Organize Your 2025 Freelance Tax Information The filing window for taxes is almost open so now is the time to make sure your freelance accounting and tax information is up to date. If you plan to work with a tax professional, reach out and make sure you have a relationship established to ensure your taxes can be filed in a timely manner. Spending a little time now to get your freelance tax information in order will allow you to file early and expedite any potential refund while giving you a head start on any additional tax moves you need to make in 2026 to reduce your tax burden. View the full article

One of the biggest SEO challenges right now isn’t AI. It’s the irresponsible misinformation surrounding it. SEO isn’t dying — it’s evolving. That means it’s on us to understand how the industry is changing, and to be careful about who we listen to. I’m not easily shocked, but some of the AEO (or GEO) talks I’ve seen over the past year have been genuinely eyebrow-raising — even for someone with Botox. I still remember one speaker telling a room full of marketers they were “sorry for anyone still working in SEO,” then immediately recommending outdated tactics as the “secret sauce” for LLM visibility. It’s been… painful. Thankfully, the adults have entered the room. This week, four of the industry’s most trusted voices — Lily Ray, Kevin Indig, Steve Toth, and Ross Hudgens — came together for a roundtable on the future of search. It was easily the most useful AEO session I’ve attended. Each shared specific tactics they’ve personally used to achieve LLM visibility. Here’s what they had to say. 1. Advertorials work LLMs don’t currently distinguish between paid and organic editorial. That means well-placed advertorials on reputable publishers can help brands show up in AI search, much like earned coverage. As with traditional PR, the publication’s credibility still matters most. 2. Syndication can scale visibility Paid syndication can increase reach, but quality matters more than quantity. Focus on reputable, relevant publications and use this tactic carefully. 3. Map pages to every audience and use case you serve Brands that create clearly defined pages for each audience, industry, and use case are better positioned as AI search becomes more personalized. This structure helps LLMs understand relevance and remains a strong SEO practice, with or without AI. 4. Homepage clarity Your homepage should clearly communicate who you serve and what you do. LLMs parse homepage content far more easily than navigation menus, so relying on your nav to explain your offering is a missed opportunity. 5. Optimize your footer Don’t overlook your footer. Brand and service signals placed here are being picked up by LLMs. Wil Reynolds shared a great case study showing how footer content can directly influence AI visibility. 6. Don’t prioritize llm.txt Despite the speculation, no major LLM has confirmed using llm.txt files, and Google has explicitly said it does not. Your time and effort are better spent elsewhere. 7. Go multimodal Repurpose your core content across text, video, audio, and imagery. The goal is to build brand recognition across the full range of sources an LLM may pull from. 8. Actively shape your brand narrative Actively shape your brand narrative. It’s estimated that 250 documents are needed to meaningfully influence how an LLM perceives a brand. Brands that don’t publish and promote content consistently risk letting others define that narrative for them. 9. Freshness carries disproportionate weight Recent content tends to perform especially well in AI search, reflecting LLMs’ preference for up-to-date information. That said, artificial “refreshing” without meaningful updates is a bad idea. 10. Social works fast Posts on platforms like LinkedIn—including Pulse articles—can appear in AI search within hours, sometimes minutes, especially for accounts with strong followings. Reddit, YouTube, and other high-trust platforms show similar behavior. 11. Authority accelerates inclusion Publishing on respected, niche industry sites can lead to rapid inclusion in LLM responses — sometimes within hours. 12. Don’t hide FAQs FAQs should be visible and substantial, not hidden behind accordions. Don’t hold back on content either— eight to 10 well-answered questions can clearly signal expertise, intent, and relevance to both users and LLMs. Is AEO the same as SEO? This much-debated question was addressed directly by John Mueller at Google Search Live in December. Putting the AEO cowboys in their place, he made it clear that good AEO still relies on good SEO: “AI systems rely on search. and there is no such thing as GEO or AEO without doing SEO fundamentals. Tricks will come out and they will work for a short time, companies that want to be around for the long term should focus on something that is proven with long term stability and not tricks.” The overlap makes sense when you look at how modern LLMs like GPT-5 actually work. They use Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG). Rather than relying only on frozen training data, RAG lets an LLM query search engines and trusted sources in real time before answering. Put simply: if you want LLM visibility, you need to show up in search first. Lily Ray has an excellent video explaining this process in more detail, which is well worth watching. So yes, good AEO is good SEO — but there’s nuance. The tactics above work right now, but they will inevitably evolve as LLMs continue to advance. The best AI search strategy for 2026 Forget the magic button. Keep testing. Stay skeptical of the hype. And be selective about who you let into your ear — or your LinkedIn feed. Thanks to Bernard Huang and Clearscope for hosting this excellent panel. View the full article

If you need to edit MP4 videos without spending money, several free online editors can help. Tools like Canva and Kapwing offer user-friendly interfaces and collaborative features, whereas FlexClip and Promo.com focus on simplifying video creation with templates. Microsoft Clipchamp supports high-quality exports, and Streamlabs Video Editor is perfect for longer projects. Each option has unique strengths, so let’s explore the specifics of these editors to find the best fit for your needs. Key Takeaways Promo.com offers a free plan with access to numerous templates for quick MP4 video creation focused on marketing and social media ads. Canva features a free version with basic editing tools and a vast library of templates optimized for social media platforms. FlexClip provides a free plan with essential editing tools, including timeline modes, and a selection of royalty-free media for video projects. Kapwing allows users to edit MP4 files for free and offers real-time collaboration features, making it suitable for teamwork. Microsoft Clipchamp has a free tier that supports video exports up to 1080p, including access to built-in stock video and audio libraries. Promo.com Promo.com stands out as a robust online tool particularly designed for creating marketing and social media ads. With over 27,000 templates optimized for various platforms, you can streamline the ad creation process effectively. The platform employs a simple three-step method: choose a template, customize it with text and media, and share your final product. If you want to split video online free, Promo.com serves as a top fast movie trimmer, making it easy to edit your videos. Furthermore, the mp4 online editor free feature allows you to access millions of royalty-free media options from stock libraries, enhancing your video ads. With batch processing, you can edit multiple videos simultaneously, increasing your productivity in ad creation. Canva Canva makes video editing accessible to everyone, regardless of experience, by offering an intuitive interface with drag-and-drop functionality. You can create and edit MP4 videos easily with a vast library of templates and stock assets. This platform’s support for various aspect ratios guarantees your videos are optimized for different social media platforms, enhancing visibility. With basic editing tools like trimming, merging, and adding text or music, you can make quick edits effortlessly. The free version allows exporting in standard formats, whereas a Pro subscription reveals advanced tools. Feature Free Version Pro Version Export Formats Standard Premium Templates Limited Unlimited Editing Tools Basic Advanced FlexClip If you’re looking for a versatile online video editor, FlexClip offers an appealing alternative with its user-friendly design and sturdy features. You can choose between timeline and storyboard modes, allowing for both template-based and custom project creation. The platform includes a vast library of royalty-free stock images, audio, and videos, which enriches your editing experience. With AI tools for text-to-speech and image stylization, FlexClip simplifies the process, making it ideal for marketing and promotional content. Whereas free account users can edit videos up to 720p in resolution and 10 minutes in length, paid plans provide higher resolutions and extended capabilities. Its intuitive interface and extensive templates cater to all skill levels, from beginners to experienced editors. Kapwing Kapwing stands out as a highly accessible online video editor that lets you edit MP4 files directly in your web browser, eliminating the need for software installation. This platform offers a range of editing tools, such as trimming, cropping, adding subtitles, and applying filters, making it perfect for quick edits, especially for social media content. You can collaborate with team members in real-time, sharing feedback through comments and @mentions, which improves productivity. The free version allows exports up to 720p, whereas a premium subscription reveals additional features and higher resolution options. With an extensive library of templates and stock media, Kapwing enables you to create visually appealing videos efficiently and effectively. Microsoft Clipchamp Microsoft Clipchamp stands out as a web-based video editor that’s easy to navigate, making it perfect whether you’re a beginner or have more experience. It offers vital features like unlimited exports up to 1080p and access to a stock library full of free resources, enhancing your editing process. For those looking for advanced options, subscription plans start at $11.99/month, providing additional tools like 4K support. User-Friendly Interface When you’re looking for a video editing tool that’s easy to navigate, Microsoft Clipchamp stands out with its user-friendly drag-and-drop interface. This design simplifies the video editing process, making it accessible for both beginners and non-professionals. You’ll find pre-designed templates and easy access to stock media, allowing you to create engaging videos without needing extensive editing knowledge. Clipchamp furthermore supports unlimited, watermark-free exports up to 1080p in its free version, catering to your need for quality outputs without additional costs. Its seamless integration with Windows improves the editing experience across compatible devices. With crucial tools like trimming, cropping, and text overlay, the intuitive layout guarantees you can refine your videos effortlessly. Essential Features Overview With a user-friendly interface already making video editing approachable, it’s worth examining the features that Microsoft Clipchamp brings to the table. This platform offers drag-and-drop functionality, allowing you to edit videos easily without needing extensive technical knowledge. In its free version, Clipchamp supports unlimited, watermark-free exports up to 1080p, ensuring high-quality output for various uses. You’ll also find built-in stock video and audio libraries, giving you access to a wide range of resources to improve your projects. Furthermore, AI-powered features like speech-to-text and auto-compose streamline the editing process, making it ideal for quick content creation. Integration with Microsoft products further boosts usability, enabling seamless project management and access across different devices. Subscription Plans Explained Choosing the right subscription plan for Microsoft Clipchamp can greatly improve your video editing experience, depending on your needs and level of engagement. The free plan is perfect for casual editors, allowing you to export videos up to 1080p without watermarks. If you need more features, consider the Fundamental plan at $11.99 per month, which includes 4K export support and access to premium templates. For businesses, the Business plan at $39 per month offers team collaboration tools, brand kits, and advanced editing features. Moreover, you can save by opting for annual payments, ensuring you stay updated with the latest tools. Clipchamp frequently updates its pricing structure, enhancing user experience with new capabilities. Streamlabs Video Editor Streamlabs Video Editor stands out as an accessible tool for both novice and experienced creators, offering a range of features that improve the video editing experience. It provides a multitrack timeline, allowing you to edit multiple audio and video tracks simultaneously, which is great for complex projects. The collaborative comment system enables team feedback directly within the editing interface, streamlining communication. You can export videos in 1080p resolution for free, with a maximum length of 30 minutes, making it ideal for casual creators. Furthermore, the library of templates and effects simplifies creating professional-quality videos quickly. Being web-based means you can access it from any device with an internet connection. Feature Description Benefits Multitrack Timeline Edit multiple tracks simultaneously Useful for complex projects Collaborative Comments Team feedback within the editor Streamlined communication 1080p Exports Free exports up to 30 minutes Ideal for casual creators Template Library Pre-made templates and effects Quick professional video creation Veed Veed stands out as an online video editing platform with a user-friendly interface, making it easy for anyone to edit MP4 videos without prior experience. Its advanced AI features, like automatic subtitles and audio cleanup, enrich your editing workflow and improve video quality. Plus, the web-based nature of Veed allows you to work from any device with internet access, giving you flexibility and convenience in your editing projects. User-Friendly Editing Interface When you’re looking for an easy-to-navigate video editing platform, Veed stands out with its user-friendly editing interface. You can effortlessly drag and drop your MP4 videos, trimming and arranging them without needing prior experience. The multitrack timeline allows you to layer audio, video, and effects, improving your editing capabilities. With a variety of pre-designed templates and effects, you can quickly create professional-looking videos. Automatic subtitle generation using AI further increases accessibility, letting you add text without hassle. Plus, since Veed is online, you can edit from any device with an internet connection, promoting collaboration. Feature Description Benefit Drag-and-Drop Interface Simple video arrangement No prior experience needed Multitrack Timeline Layer audio, video, and effects Complex edits made easy Pre-Designed Templates Wide range of templates and effects Quick professional results Automatic Subtitle Generation AI-generated subtitles Improves accessibility Online Editing Edit from any internet-connected device Encourages collaboration Advanced AI Features Building on the user-friendly editing experience, Veed incorporates advanced AI features that greatly improve your video production capabilities. One standout feature is automatic subtitles, which save time and boost accessibility for your viewers. In addition, AI audio cleanup tools remove background noise, ensuring your audio is clear and professional. You can likewise use AI-driven templates that simplify the editing process by offering pre-designed layouts customized for various content types, resulting in a polished look with minimal effort. Veed’s AI text-to-speech capabilities allow you to generate voiceovers in multiple languages, broadening your audience reach. Finally, AI-powered filters and effects automatically upgrade your video visuals, providing creative options without requiring extensive editing skills, making your workflow more efficient. Frequently Asked Questions What Is the Best Free MP4 Video Editor? The best free MP4 video editor varies based on your needs. PowerDirector stands out for its user-friendly interface and AI-driven tools, making it suitable for all skill levels. If you’re creating social media ads, Promeo offers a streamlined process with thousands of templates. For beginners, VideoPad provides a simple interface and multiple export options. Other decent choices include OpenShot, iMovie, and Shotcut, each with unique features customized to different editing requirements. What Is the Best Free Online Video Editor? The best free online video editor varies based on your needs. Veed performs exceptionally with its multitrack timeline and automatic subtitles, perfect for complex projects. Clipchamp integrates well with Windows, offering features like speech-to-text and unlimited 1080p exports. Adobe Express is great for template-driven social media content, whereas Canva’s intuitive interface suits promotional videos. Each platform has unique strengths, so assess your editing requirements to find the one that aligns with your goals. Is There a 100% Free Video Editor? Yes, there are several 100% free video editors available. Programs like DaVinci Resolve, OpenShot, and Shotcut offer robust features without any cost. While some editors, such as Lightworks and VideoPad, include limitations on export quality or watermarking, they still provide crucial tools for basic editing tasks. Furthermore, online editors like Clipchamp and Kapwing allow you to edit directly in your browser, though some features may require payment for full access. Always check licensing agreements. What Is the No. 1 Best Video Editor? The number one best video editor often recognized is DaVinci Resolve. You’ll find it offers professional-grade features, including advanced color correction and audio tools, all for free. It supports high-resolution editing up to 4K and provides an extensive suite of visual effects. Its collaborative workflow allows multiple users to work simultaneously, enhancing productivity. With various export formats and regular updates, it remains a top choice for both beginners and experienced editors alike. Conclusion To conclude, these seven free online MP4 editors—Promo.com, Canva, FlexClip, Kapwing, Microsoft Clipchamp, Streamlabs Video Editor, and Veed—offer a range of features suitable for various editing needs. Whether you require templates, collaboration, or high-quality exports, each platform has unique strengths to improve your video projects. By exploring these options, you’ll find the right tool to efficiently edit your videos without incurring costs, making it easier to produce professional-looking content. Image via Google Gemini This article, "Top 7 Free Online MP4 Editors You Should Try" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

We may earn a commission from links on this page. Zendaya is busy. Euphoria, which she produces in addition to starring in, is finally set to return for its third season on April 12, four years after our last visit to East Highland, and nearly seven since it premiered. As frustrating as these between-season breaks can be, they leave plenty of time to explore other tales of the wild lives of high schoolers. It's all relative, though: While growing up in never a picnic, there's drama, and then there's drama. These 15 streamalikes vary widely in tone and style, but they all make clear that being a young person in the 21st century is not f*cking easy. Stream the first two seasons of Euphoria on HBO Max. The Sex Lives of College Girls (2021 – 2025) Kimberly (Pauline Chalamet) is an endlessly naïve scholarship student; Bela (Amrit Kaur) is an aspiring comedy writer on the make for the hottest guys; Whitney (Alyah Chanelle Scott) is an overachieving athlete and senator’s daughter;and Leighton (Reneé Rapp) is a closeted sorority girl. They're all randomly assigned to room together as freshmen at the fictional Essex College in Vermont. Created by Mindy Kaling and Justin Noble, this comedy-drama isn't nearly as salacious as its title suggests. There's sex for sure, but like Sex and the City before it, the funny, queer-friendly show is more about female friendship. Stream The Sex Lives of College Girls on HBO Max. The Sex Lives of College Girls at HBO Max Learn More Learn More at HBO Max My Mad Fat Diary (2013 – 2015) Period drama is having a moment, and this one goes way, way back...to the 1990s. This British comedy-drama stars the brilliant Sharon Rooney (you might know her as Lawyer Barbie) as Rae Earl, a 16-year-old who just spent several months in a psychiatric hospital for a cocktail of mental health issues, poor body image being near the top of that list. Heading back to school, she tries to conceal the truth of her absence and ongoing challenges—with expectedly mixed results. Despite the show's comedy elements, it's about as good a narrative about growing up with serious mental health issues as you're likely to find. Rooney won a well-deserved Best Actress BAFTA for her performance. Stream My Mad Fat Diary on Prime Video, Hulu, and Tubi. My Mad Fat Diary at Prime Video Learn More Learn More at Prime Video Boarders (2024 – ) This British import feels a bit like a latter-day Skins, featuring a scholastic setting and a talented cast of young stars-in-waiting (including leads Josh Tedeku and Jodie Campbell). At the (fictional) prestigious boarding school St. Gilbert’s, five Black teens are newly attending on scholarships, but their integration into the existing cliques is less than smooth. The blend of coming-of-age drama with a willingness to take the piss when it comes to the whole "rich private school thing" makes this Tubi original a smashing good time. Stream Boarders on Tubi. Boarders (2024 – ) at Tubi Learn More Learn More at Tubi Gossip Girl (2007 – 2012) Teen drama at its finest and most bitchy, Gossip Girl follows the many scandals of a group of young Upper East Side socialites and hangers-on. The tangled teenage lives of Serena van der Woodsen (Blake Lively), her best frenemy Blair Waldorf (Leighton Meester), scholarship kid Dan Humphrey (Penn Badgley), and plenty more pretty young boys and girls are chronicled in meticulous detail by the title's mysterious, omnipresent Gossip Girl (voiced by Kristen Bell). This one shares with Emily an impeccable sense of style, as its leads never miss a fashion beat. It all seems a bit tame when help up to Euphoria, but the show carved a path nonetheless, scandalizing parents in the mid-aughts. (The two-season 2021 follow-up is also available on HBO Max.) Stream Gossip Girl on HBO Max and Netflix. Gossip Girl at HBO Max Learn More Learn More at HBO Max Prisma (2022 – 2024) Andrea and Marco are twin brothers (both played by Mattia Carrano) with a broad circle of friends living in modern day Italy. Marco has a history of self-harm that impacted his burgeoning swimming career, while Andrea has a secret social media life,messaging men while presenting as a woman. Sexual and gender exploration is the prime mover here, but the show also deals realistically with issues like drugs and bullying and any number of other coming-of-age trials. A bit of a hidden gem. Stream Prisma on Prime Video. Prisma (2022 – 2024) Learn More Learn More Elite (2018 – 2024) With a bit of Gossip Girl’s juicy style, Elite follows a group of working-class friends who wind up with scholarships to Las Encinas, a fictional private school that is, in the show’s universe, the most exclusive in Spain. What they find there is snobbery, for sure, but also mystery, murder, and lots and lots of sex (between and among characters of various sexual orientations and numerical groupings). The smart, wonderfully trashy show ran for an almost shocking (in our modern streaming era) eight seasons, with a couple of regional remakes. Stream Elite on Netflix. Elite (2018 – 2024) at Netflix Learn More Learn More at Netflix Blood & Water (2020 – ) This top-tier teen drama stars Ama Qamata as Puleng Khumalo, a teenage girl who’s lived her entire life in the shadow of a sister who was taken as a baby by human traffickers (Puleng’s parents still hold a birthday celebration for the sister each year). When invited to a party by popular Fikile Bhele (Khosi Ngema), a student at an elite school in Cape Town, Puleng can’t help noticing their similarities. Steeped in the story of her sister, Puleng transfers to the school to get to the bottom of things. There’s plenty of juicy high school drama and family secrets in the mix, but the show is elevated by its unexpected dramatic heft and a multitude of queer characters and storylines. (This is ostensibly a South Africa remake of Elite, but its flavor and sense of identity are so unique that you'd hardly notice.) Stream Blood & Water on Netflix. Blood & Water (2020 – ) at Netflix Learn More Learn More at Netflix Overcompensating (2025 – ) Comedian Benito Skinner plays himself, sort of, in this buzzy comedy that sees a former high school jock facing his freshman year in college while desperately trying to convince himself and everyone else that he's as straight as they come (relatable, except for the jock part). Much of the appeal is in its deft blending of tones: It's a frequently raunchy college comedy and simultaneously a sweet coming-of-age story about accepting yourself without worrying about what everyone else thinks. The cast includes Adam DiMarco (The White Lotus) and Rish Shah (Ms. Marvel) and while it definitely doesn't go as hard as Euphoria, there are moments of real drama and heartbreak. Stream Overcompensating on Prime Video. Overcompensating (2025 – ) at Prime Video Learn More Learn More at Prime Video Sex Education (2019 – 2023) Many of us come from families with philosophies that could be described as less than sex positive. Which is not great. This popular British series imagines the life of a teenager with a parent on the opposite end of that spectrum: Mom (Gillian Anderson) is a sex therapist who’s not particularly good at romantic relationships. As a result, Asa Butterfield’s Otis Milburn grew up with an ambivalence toward the topic—a lack of interest that held until he realized that his inside knowledge of doing the deed could earn him friends (and paying customers) at school. Alongside some classmates, he establishes his own clinic to help his fellow students with their sexual concerns. In the process, Otis, and the show, address a wide range of issues, from birth control and abortion, to masturbation, sexually transmitted diseases, and developing sexual identities. Emma Mackey and Ncuti Gatwa (Doctor Who) also star. Stream Sex Education on Netflix. Sex Education at Netflix Learn More Learn More at Netflix Industry (2020 – ) Industry isn’t concerned with a power struggle among people at the top of the ladder; instead, its focus is the fight to climb said ladder. The young wannabe investment bankers it follows would all love to be the terrible rich people from that other show. The main characters come from a variety of backgrounds, but they’re all competing for a limited number of permanent positions at the fictional Pierpoint & Co., a London bank, and they’ll do anything it takes to earn their shot at the big prize. The setting here is seemingly very different from Euphoria's vague greater Los Angeles, and the whole investment banking thing hardly doesn't line up with the trials of high school, but there's a a definite vibe match, as young people face high pressure situations and fight to stay above water in a world rife with traps and temptations. Stream Industry on HBO Max. Industry (2020 – ) at HBO Max Learn More Learn More at HBO Max We Are Who We Are (2020) Director Luca Guadagnino (Challengers, Queer) created this series about two American teenagers, Fraser (Jack Dylan Grazer) and Caitlin (Jordan Kristine Seamón), living with their families on a U.S. military base in Chioggia, Italy. Fraser's two moms are both in the army, but he's new to base life. Caitlin, on the other hand, has lived in Chioggia for years with her conservative father. Over the course of a summer, the two gradually bond over their mutual feelings of isolation, as well as their explorations of gender and sexuality. Stream We Are Who We Are on HBO Max. We Are Who We Are at HBO Max Learn More Learn More at HBO Max Baby (2018 – 2020) As with many teen dramas, Baby kicks off at an elite boarding school (poor kids come of age too, ya know), but this one has a fairly wild spin: It's based (quite loosely) on a real-life Italian scandal involving teen sex workers. Benedetta Porcaroli (Immaculate) stars as Chiara, a rich kid who makes a new bestie in Ludovica (Alice Pagani), who needs money and happens to know a very sketchy guy who might be able to help her earn it. The tone is somehow less lascivious than the premise suggests, although the sex-work-as-teenage-rebellion angle is not for every taste. Stream Baby on Netflix. Baby (2018 – 2020) at Netflix Learn More Learn More at Netflix Heartbreak High (2022 – ) There’s a lot of backstory here that you don’t really need to know to enjoy the show, but in brief, Heartbreak High is a sorta soft-reboot of a popular and long-running 1990s show in Australia, which was itself a spin-off from a 1993 movie. There’s a solid blend of teen drama (sealing with issues related to gender identity, race, and teen sexuality) and comedy (the main characters corralled into the Sexual Literacy Tutorial, with the unfortunate acronym SLT). It all starts with Amelie and Harper, two students at a diverse Sydney high school, who set off a firestorm when they create a detailed map of the sexual exploits of the student body. Stream Heartbreak High on Netflix. Heartbreak High (2022 – ) at Netflix Learn More Learn More at Netflix Riverdale (2017 – 2023) "What the hell is this doing here?" you're probably asking yourself. And, fair. But hear me out: This reimagining of the once entirely wholesome Archie comics universe is generally way over-the-top, but it tackles the trials and tribulations of growing up (including recurring storylines involving substance abuse) in a similarly...let's say "operatic" fashion. It veers wildly between genres, starting out by blending several coming-of-age storylines with a hot-for-teacher whodunnit: The dour, elderly Miss Grundy of the comics is younged up and is having an affair with Archie in the series opener, leading in to a bloody murder mystery. Before long, we're folding in supernatural horror and alternate universes, things made all the weirder by the way the show seems to take itself absolutely seriously in the face of one bonkers plot twist after another. It's the whackadoo comic-book version of Euphoria. Steam Riverdale on Netflix. Riverdale (2017 – 2023) at Netflix Get Deal Get Deal at Netflix Skins (2007 – 2013) The popular and controversial British series launched names like Nicholas Hoult, Daniel Kaluuya, and Dev Patel while dealing with hot-button issues like mental illness, substance abuse, and bullying. The show also never forgets—not even for one episode—that it's about teenagers, and doesn't shy away from the sex lives of its large (and ever-changing) cast of characters. There's a pretty straight line to be drawn between the success of Skins and that of Euphoria. Stream Skins on Hulu. Skins (2007 – 2013) at Hulu Learn More Learn More at Hulu View the full article

Tax filing season is underway, and the IRS expects 164 million people will file returns by April 15. The average refund last year was $3,167. This year, analysts have projected it could be $1,000 higher, thanks to changes in tax law. More than 165 million individual income tax returns were processed last year, with 94% submitted electronically. People with straightforward returns should not encounter delays, but because of an exodus of IRS workers since the start of the The President administration, the national taxpayer advocate has cautioned that the 2026 tax filing season is likely to present challenges for those who run into problems filing. While last year IRS employees were not permitted to accept a buyout offer from the The President administration until after the taxpayer filing deadline, many of those customer service workers have now left. The IRS started 2025 with about 102,000 employees and finished with roughly 74,000 after a series of firings and layoffs led by the Department of Government Efficiency. Here’s what to know: When refunds will go out If you file electronically, the IRS says it should take 21 days or less to receive your refund. If you choose direct deposit, it should take even less time. If you file a paper return, the refund could take four weeks or more, and if your return requires amendments or corrections, it could take longer. The IRS cautions that taxpayers not rely on receiving a refund by a certain date, especially when making major purchases or paying bills. How to check the status of your refund Taxpayers can use the online tool Where’s My Refund? to check the status of their refund within 24 hours of e-filing and generally within four weeks of filing a paper return. The “Where’s My Refund?” tool will also provide projected deposit dates for most early EITC/ACTC refund filers by Feb. 21, according to the IRS. Information related to this tool is updated once daily, overnight. To access the status of your refund, you’ll need: — Your Social Security or individual taxpayer ID number (ITIN) Taxpayers can also consult the IRS2Go app, or their IRS Individual Online Account, to check their refund status. How tax refunds work If you paid more through the year than you owe in tax, due to withholding or other reasons, you should get money back. Even if you didn’t pay excess tax, you may still get a refund if you qualify for a refundable credit, like the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) or Child Tax Credit. To get your refund, you must file a return, and you have three years to claim a tax refund. Who qualifies for the Earned Income Tax Credit To qualify for the EITC, you must have under $11,950 in investment income and earn less than a specific income level from working. If you’re single with no children, your income level must be $19,104 or below. And if you’re married filing jointly with three or more children, you must make $68,675 or below. To determine if your household qualifies based on your marital status and your number of dependents you can use the online EITC Assistant tool. Who qualifies for the Child Tax Credit and Additional Child Tax Credit If you have a child, you are most likely eligible for the Child Tax Credit. The credit is up to $2,200 per qualifying child. To qualify, a child must: — Have a Social Security number — Be under age 17 at the end of 2025 — Be your son, daughter, stepchild, eligible foster child, brother, sister, stepbrother, stepsister, half-brother, half-sister, or a descendant of one of these (for example, a grandchild, niece or nephew) — Not provide more than half of his or her own support for the tax year — Have lived with you for more than half the tax year — Be claimed as a dependent on your tax return — Not file a joint return for the year (or filed the joint return only to claim a refund of taxes withheld or estimated taxes) — Be a U.S. citizen, U.S. national or a U.S. resident alien You qualify for the full amount of the Child Tax Credit for each qualifying child if you meet all eligibility factors and your annual income is not more than $200,000 ($400,000 if filing a joint return). You qualify for the Additional Child Tax Credit if ($1,700 per qualifying child) if you meet these factors and have little or no federal income tax liability. You must have earned income of at least $2,500 to be eligible for the ACTC. When the tax credits will become available The IRS expects most refunds for the Earned Income Tax Credit, the Child Tax Credit and the Additional Child Tax Credit to be available in bank accounts or on debit cards by March 2 for taxpayers who choose direct deposit. Some taxpayers may receive their refund earlier, depending on their financial institution. What’s different this year This year, most taxpayers must provide their routing and account numbers to receive refunds directly deposited into their bank accounts. That’s because the IRS began phasing out paper tax refund checks on Sept. 30 in accordance with an executive order. ___ The Associated Press receives support from the Charles Schwab Foundation for educational and explanatory reporting to improve financial literacy. The independent foundation is separate from Charles Schwab and Co. Inc. The AP is solely responsible for its journalism. —Cora Lewis, Associated Press View the full article

Google announced yesterday that it is exploring ways for sites to opt out of Google using their content for its AI-generative search features, such as AI Mode and AI Overviews. I asked the SEO community on X if they would opt out of these Google Search AI-generative features or not. The results. Of the over 350 responses that took the poll yesterday, most said they would not opt out. However, about 1/3 of respondents said they would block or opt out of these features. Here is the breakdown: Question: Would you block Google from using your content for AI Overviews and AI Mode? 33.2% – Yes, I’d block Google 41.9% – No, I wouldn’t block 24.9% – I am not sure yet. Here is the actual poll: Would you block Google from using your content for AI Overviews and AI Mode – Google may be giving us more controls – take my poll below. https://t.co/60M3Vt0YlN — Barry Schwartz (@rustybrick) January 28, 2026 How to opt out. We don’t know. Google only said it is “exploring” ways to handle this but has not provided any mechanism for this. So we don’t know how hard or easy it would be to opt out. The easier it is, the more likely sites will opt out; the harder, the less likely. Why we care. The true number of sites that might opt out of AI Mode or AI Overviews won’t be known until the mechanism is out to handle this. And trust me, there will be many reports on how many sites are opting out. Like recently, “Some 79% of almost 100 top news websites in the UK and US are blocking at least one crawler used for AI training out of OpenAI’s GPTBot, ClaudeBot, Anthropic-ai, CCBot, Applebot-Extended and Google-Extended,” reported The Press Gazette. My recommendation; once it is out, it is something you will want to test and see the results of opting out or opting in. View the full article

Virginia-based Gerber Products Company is voluntarily recalling limited batches of Gerber Arrowroot Biscuits, a cookie-like snack meant for children 10 months or older. On January 26, the baby food and snack producer issued the voluntary recall due to the potential presence of soft plastic and paper pieces that “should not be consumed,” the company said this week. The material comes from a supplier of arrowroot flour that initiated its own recall, Gerber said. The company said it was no longer working with the supplier, though it did not name the supplier in its recall notice on Monday. No illnesses or injuries have been reported. Gerber says it is issuing the recall “out of an abundance of caution.” On Wednesday, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) published the recall notice on its website. What products are included in the recall? The nationwide recall applies to limited batches of 5.5-ounce Gerber Arrowroot Biscuits, produced between July 2025 and September 2025. Gerber emphasizes that no other products are impacted. Product packaging images and other details are included n the FDA’s website. Gerber markets the products as “crawler snacks,” and “baby’s first biscuit,” noting that the treats dissolve easily. It alternatively describes the product as cookies. Customers should check the back of the product packaging to verify whether their package is included in the recall. Each package has a 10-digit batch code listed next to the best-before date. The best-before dates range from mid-October into mid-December 2026. The full list of batch codes is available on Gerber’s website. FDA Fast Company contacted Gerber to ask for more information about the arrowroot flour supplier. We will update this story if we get a reply. Impacted products should not be consumed Customers who have purchased the impacted product should not feed it to their child. They should return the product to the retailer where it was purchased for a refund. All-day consumer support is available by calling 1-800-4-GERBER (1-800-443-7237). Gerber is a subsidiary of Swiss multinational food giant Nestlé S.A. View the full article

Ola Källenius declined offer but warns that Europe needs to realise it faces competition for investment View the full article

Beleaguered programme may continue in scaled-back form, after Airbus CEO said his company had given up on fighter jetView the full article

Journalist Ira Glass, who hosts the NPR show “This American Life,” is not a computer scientist. He doesn’t work at Google, Apple, or Nvidia. But he does have a great ear for useful phrases, and in 2024, he organized an entire episode around one that might resonate with anyone who feels blindsided by the pace of AI development: “Unprepared for what has already happened.” Coined by science journalist Alex Steffen, the phrase captures the unsettling feeling that “the experience and expertise you’ve built up” may now be obsolete—or, at least, a lot less valuable than it once was. Whenever I lead workshops in law firms, government agencies, or nonprofit organizations, I hear that same concern. Highly educated, accomplished professionals worry whether there will be a place for them in an economy where generative AI can quickly—and relatively cheaply—complete a growing list of tasks that an extremely large number of people currently get paid to do. Seeing a future that doesn’t include you In technology reporter Cade Metz’s 2022 book, “Genius Makers: The Mavericks Who Brought AI to Google, Facebook, and the World,” he describes the panic that washed over a veteran researcher at Microsoft named Chris Brockett when Brockett first encountered an artificial intelligence program that could essentially perform everything he’d spent decades learning how to master. Overcome by the thought that a piece of software had now made his entire skill set and knowledge base irrelevant, Brockett was actually rushed to the hospital because he thought he was having a heart attack. “My 52-year-old body had one of those moments when I saw a future where I wasn’t involved,” he later told Metz. In his 2018 book, “Life 3.0: Being Human in the Age of Artificial Intelligence,” MIT physicist Max Tegmark expresses a similar anxiety. “As technology keeps improving, will the rise of AI eventually eclipse those abilities that provide my current sense of self-worth and value on the job market?” The answer to that question, unnervingly, can often feel outside of our individual control. “We’re seeing more AI-related products and advancements in a single day than we saw in a single year a decade ago,” a Silicon Valley product manager told a reporter for Vanity Fair back in 2023. Things have only accelerated since then. Even Dario Amodei—the co-founder and CEO of Anthropic, the company that created the popular chatbot Claude—has been shaken by the increasing power of AI tools. “I think of all the times when I wrote code,” he said in an interview on the tech podcast “Hard Fork.” “It’s like a part of my identity that I’m good at this. And then I’m like, oh, my god, there’s going to be these (AI) systems that [can perform a lot better than I can].” The irony that these fears live inside the brain of someone who leads one of the most important AI companies in the world is not lost on Amodei. “Even as the one who’s building these systems,” he added, “even as one of the ones who benefits most from (them), there’s still something a bit threatening about (them).” Autor and agency Yet as the labor economist David Autor has argued, we all have more agency over the future than we might think. In 2024, Autor was interviewed by Bloomberg News soon after publishing a research paper titled Applying AI to Rebuild Middle-Class Jobs. The paper explores the idea that AI, if managed well, might be able to help a larger set of people perform the kind of higher-value—and higher-paying—“decision-making tasks currently arrogated to elite experts like doctors, lawyers, coders and educators.” This shift, Autor suggests, “would improve the quality of jobs for workers without college degrees, moderate earnings inequality, and—akin to what the Industrial Revolution did for consumer goods—lower the cost of key services such as healthcare, education and legal expertise.” It’s an interesting, hopeful argument, and Autor, who has spent decades studying the effects of automation and computerization on the workforce, has the intellectual heft to explain it without coming across as Pollyannish. But what I found most heartening about the interview was Autor’s response to a question about a type of “AI doomerism” that believes that widespread economic displacement is inevitable and there’s nothing we can do to stop it. “The future should not be treated as a forecasting or prediction exercise,” he said. “It should be treated as a design problem—because the future is not (something) where we just wait and see what happens. … We have enormous control over the future in which we live, and [the quality of that future] depends on the investments and structures that we create today.” At the starting line I try to emphasize Autor’s point about the future being more of a “design problem” than a “prediction exercise” in all the AI courses and workshops I teach to law students and lawyers, many of whom fret over their own job prospects. The nice thing about the current AI moment, I tell them, is that there is still time for deliberate action. Although the first scientific paper on neural networks was published all the way back in 1943, we’re still very much in the early stages of so-called “generative AI.” No student or employee is hopelessly behind. Nor is anyone commandingly ahead. Instead, each of us is in an enviable spot: right at the starting line. Patrick Barry is a clinical assistant professor of law and director of Digital Academic Initiatives at the University of Michigan. This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article. View the full article

We may earn a commission from links on this page. Deal pricing and availability subject to change after time of publication. If you need a pair of basic, true wireless earbuds at a low price and don’t need features like noise cancellation, the Sony WF-C510 earbuds are worth considering. Known for their comfort and balanced sound, these affordable buds check most of the everyday features people are looking for (like Ambient Sound Mode and multipoint Bluetooth) at a fraction of the cost—and right now, Grade A refurbished Sony WF-C510 wireless earbuds is available on Woot for $34.99, which is less expensive than their lowest recorded price on Amazon, according to price-trackers. Grade A Refurbished Sony WF-C510 Wireless Earbuds $34.99 at Woot $69.99 Save $35.00 Get Deal Get Deal $34.99 at Woot $69.99 Save $35.00 The WF-C510 earphones are Sony’s most affordable option, combining comfort for long listening sessions with a functional design and solid sound. They have a compact, lightweight charging case and work with Sony’s companion app. With a small, stemless design, on-bud physical buttons, and swappable ear tips, they closely resemble the brand’s more expensive earbuds. According to this PCMag review, the earbuds deliver “deep bass and high-end clarity without distortion” and perform similarly to pricier buds. While they don’t have noise cancellation, they do have Ambient Mode, which lets you hear your surroundings naturally while they're on. Battery life lasts up to 11 hours with Ambient Mode off, and the case holds an additional 11 hours. While the earbuds are generally comfortable thanks to customizable tips and a snug fit, pressing the buttons can push them slightly into your ear, which may cause discomfort for sensitive users. That said, others may prefer physical controls over touch controls, which can be overly sensitive and lead to accidental activations. They have an IPX4 rating, which protects against splashing and light rain, but shouldn’t be submerged in water. They have 6mm drivers that produce frequencies between 20Hz and 20kHz and support. While they have limited codec support (they only use AAC and SBC rather than LDAC), they support Bluetooth multipoint connections with up to two devices. Despite the low price, these refurbished Sony WF-C510 wireless earbuds deliver respectable audio performance, a comfortable build, and a compact case with an extra charge. If you don’t need high-resolution Bluetooth codecs, touch controls, or noise-cancelling features, they’re a dependable option, especially at just $34.99. Woot only ships to the 48 contiguous states in the U.S, and if you have Amazon Prime, you get free shipping; otherwise, it’ll be $6 to ship. The earbuds may come with signs of wear, but with a Grade A rating, these will be very limited. If you do run into any issues, they come with a 1 Year eReplacements Limited Warranty. Our Best Editor-Vetted Tech Deals Right Now Apple AirPods Pro 3 Noise Cancelling Heart Rate Wireless Earbuds — $199.00 (List Price $249.00) Apple Watch Series 11 [GPS 46mm] Smartwatch with Jet Black Aluminum Case with Black Sport Band - M/L. Sleep Score, Fitness Tracker, Health Monitoring, Always-On Display, Water Resistant — $399.00 (List Price $429.00) Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Plus — (List Price $24.99 With Code "FTV4K25") Samsung Galaxy Tab A9+ 64GB Wi-Fi 11" Tablet (Silver) — $159.99 (List Price $219.99) Deals are selected by our commerce team View the full article

Google has released v23 of the Google Ads API, the first update of 2026 and the start of a faster release cadence, introducing deeper Performance Max reporting, more granular invoicing, new AI-powered audience tools, and expanded campaign controls. What’s new: Performance Max transparency: Ad network type breakdowns are now available for PMax campaigns. More detailed invoices: Campaign-level costs, regulatory fees, and adjustments can be retrieved via InvoiceService. More precise scheduling: Campaigns can now use start and end date-times instead of date-only fields. Local data access: Store location details are available through PerStoreView, matching the Stores report. New audience dimension: LIFE_EVENT_USER_INTEREST enables life-event-based audience building in Insights tools. Smarter Demand Gen planning: Conversion rate forecasts now vary by surface (e.g., Gmail, Shorts). Generative AI audiences: Free-text audience descriptions can be translated into structured audience attributes. Expanded Shopping metrics: New competitive and conversion metrics are available by conversion date. Why we care. A quicker update cycle means advertisers and developers will get new capabilities sooner, especially as Google leans further into automation, AI-driven planning, and visibility across campaign types. Between the lines. Some of these updates require upgrading client libraries and code, meaning that teams may need to plan development time to take full advantage of v23. Bottom line. Google Ads API v23 sets the pace for 2026, pairing faster releases with more AI-driven insights, better reporting, and tighter campaign control for advertisers building at scale. View the full article

Even with the 4 basis point rise in the 30-year fixed over the past two weeks, mortgage rates are still hovering near three-year lows, Freddie Mac said. View the full article