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On Feb. 11, "volunteer IT consultant" Elon Musk appeared at an Oval Office event to discuss the findings of the newly formed Department of Government Efficiency. Among other claims, Musk said that a "cursory examination of Social Security” revealed that people who are clearly dead may be receiving social security benefits. “We’ve got people in there that are 150 years old,” Musk said “Now, do you know anyone who’s 150? I don’t, OK… I think they’re probably dead, is my guess, or they should be very famous, one of the two.” In a later post on X, Musk provided some numbers and joked, "Maybe Twilight is real and there are a lot of vampires collecting Social Security." This Tweet is currently unavailable. It might be loading or has been removed. Like many hot-button political issues, almost everyone is wrong about this one. Musk isn't pulling numbers out of his ass; he isn't lying about clearly dead people being listed as alive by social security. But he hasn't uncovered any waste or fraud, either. Did Musk's number come from not understanding computer programming?Soon after Musk's press event, online folks were speculating that Musk's "150-year-old" number was the result of not understanding how databases are programmed. They're (probably) wrong. This X post explaining the theory has been viewed over 300,000 times: This Tweet is currently unavailable. It might be loading or has been removed. While it would be funny if this was true, it can't be proven and seems unlikely to me. Musk seemed to be pulling a "shocking" number out of the air, but his figures are roughly in keeping with the data in previous audits of the social security system. There really are a lot of records of people who were born more 150 years ago but who are not listed as dead in the social security database. But this isn't something Musk uncovered and it isn't an indication of fraud or waste. Are 150-year-olds listed as alive by social security? At 116, Inah Canabarro Lucas is the oldest person alive. The oldest person ever lived to 122. But according to an audit of the Social Security administration conducted in 2023 (a real audit, not a cursory examination), 18.9 million people are listed in the database as having been born before 1920 but do not have death information on record. According to the census bureau, there were only 86,000 people alive in the US in 2023 who were over 100 years old. But these "numberholders who exceeded maximum reasonable life expectancies" (as the government calls them) don't seem to be collecting social security benefits. What is "death," anyway?The social security system's database, Numident, is huge and complicated. While the Numident does keep track of people's deaths, its purpose is to "administer its programs"—it's not "a comprehensive accounting of all deaths in the country." Ultimately, the database's "living dead" are trapped in perpetual paperwork limbo because "the individuals died decades ago—before the use of electronic death reporting," or so independent auditors concluded. It's a paperwork problem that doesn't necessarily lead to fraud or waste. Did Elon Musk identify widespread fraud in the social security administration?He did not. This is not a smoking gun. Despite the nation's roughly 20 million only-alive-on-paper elders, the Social Security Administration sends benefits to around 44,000 people who are over 100, which is in keeping with the number of super-oldsters who actually live in the nation, according to the census. In fact, a 2015 report found 6.5 million active Social Security numbers for people over the age of 112, but only 13 of them were being used to receive benefits—turns out there are much better ways of defrauding social security than collecting a dead ancestor's monthly check for $22.54—the payment a 150-year-old would receive. Ultimately, Musk has not uncovered fraud or waste. He didn't uncover anything. He brought this issue to people's attention, but the bottom line is, social security "vampires" are a clerical problem we've known about for a long time that has already been addressed and doesn't appear to be that big of a problem. The truth about social security is not very sexyAnother social security audit—we actually do these regularly—published in 2015 stated that 6.5 million people on the Numident database were listed as older than 112. Benefits were sent to 266 beneficiaries (most of them were probably under the age of 112, despite what the database said—things get messy when dealing with paperwork from the early 20th century). To be fair, the 2015 audit and the one conducted in 2023 reached roughly the same conclusion as Musk: We should probably fix this. "Death information missing from the Numident and the DMF hampers both SSA and Government-wide efforts to prevent and detect fraud and misuse," concluded the 2023 audit. So why don't we fix it? What is "government waste," anyway?The government doesn't just check "yes" in the field for "is this person dead?" for people who were born more than 120 years ago because, according to the SSA, adding "presumed dead" to records in the Numident system would be "costly to implement, would be of little benefit to the agency, would largely duplicate information already available to data exchange consumers and would create cost for the states and other data exchange partners.” In contradiction to the conclusion that Musk and co. reached, the SSA thinks it would be more wasteful to fix the problem than to just leave it alone: The Treasury Department already has anyone over a certain age on its Do Not Pay List anyway, so they're just letting the files not list a death date because that's free. 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Email signatures are a crucial part of a business email and have a lot of importance. The presence of an email signature can tell a recipient who you are, what you do, and the best ways to get in touch with you. A well-crafted, relevant email signature can have a lot of benefits for your business. We’ll look at what an email signature is and why it’s important, plus email signature examples to help you create your own. What is an Email Signature? An email signature is a combination of text and images that goes at the end of every email you send. Depending on your email client, you can create an email signature that adds to every email you send. If you pay attention to your emails, you’ll likely see that most professional emails have some kind of a signature at the end as a sign-off. Why do I Need a Business Email Signature? There are many reasons why a business email signature is helpful. The easiest way to think of it is as a type of business card. It tells the recipient who you are, where you work, and how to get in touch with you. And don’t forget to keep email signature best practices in mind. Here are a few reasons why you should consider a business email signature: AspectDescription Contact InformationIt's an easy way to provide all your contact information in one place, rather than having to type it out every time. PromotionYour email signature works as a marketing channel since it includes key information about your company and serves as a form of brand awareness. Personal TouchAn email signature adds a more personal element to your email and creates a connection with the recipient right away. ProfessionalismAn email signature is a way to build trust, especially if you haven't contacted the recipient before, as it shows that you are part of a company. Encourages ActionDepending on the structure of your email signature and email, you can use email signatures as a call to action tool to encourage recipients to get back to you. What Should My Business Email Signature Include? There are some integral components that go into creating an email signature block, such as: Name Job title Your company name, company logo, and even your department if appropriate Contact details such as a direct phone number Secondary contact information such as other direct lines, work phones, etc. Social icons that link out to relevant social media pages for your company Any awards you or your company have won A call to action (if relevant) Simple Email Signature Examples We’ll look at some simple email signature examples to help you get started. Example 1: Name Title Company Phone You can use this example for your personal brand, as professional email signature templates usually contain this information at the minimum. Example 2: Name Title Company Website This is a basic email signature that is best if you’d rather not provide a phone number or for email inboxes monitored by multiple people. Example 3: Name Title Company Phone Website A more comprehensive email signature that can work well as a marketing rep email signature and for other professional services. Note that you can add a business logo to these email signatures if you’d like, but it’s not necessarily a requirement if you’d like to keep them simple. Funny (But Professional) Email Signature Examples For those looking to add a little wit and sass to their email signature, you can find some email signatures examples here that could be useful. The best way to add a funny saying to your email signature is to use one of the examples here, and add a funny saying or phrase to it. They can be a great addition for departments such as customer service and marketing where a more personal connection needs to be established. Funny email signature example 1: Name Title Company Phone Funny saying here Funny email signature example 2: Name Title Company Funny saying here Website Professional Email Signature Examples Including professional email signatures to your email is incredibly crucial for both business owners an employees. Corporate email signatures are key for recipients since they can quickly understand what you do and how they might know you. Here are some professional signature examples that you can use. Example 1: Name Corporate logo, Title, and Department Company Website Social media links Example 2: Name Corporate logo, Title, and Department Company Phone Website Social media links Example 3: Name Company Title and Department Phone Website Social media icons Personal Email Signature Examples For those seeking something a little more personal and perhaps something casual, email signatures can be reworked to be less formal. Here are some of the best examples of business email signatures that don’t feel as business-like. Example 1 Name Title Phone Example 2 Name Phone Website Example 3 Name Title Phone Creative Email Signature Examples Some professions may require a unique style of email signature. For instance, a graphic designer’s email signature might benefit from a more visually appealing design than those in other fields. Additionally, you can explore funny phone signature ideas suitable for your smartphone or tablet. Below are some creative email signature examples to inspire you: Example 1 Brand logo Name Title Company Phone Website Social media icons Example 2 Brand logo Name Title Phone Portfolio link Example 2 Brand logo Name Title Phone Website HTML Email Signature For a more dynamic and visual email signature, HTML formatting can help. Although it might seem complicated, there are many HTML signature examples that can be used with most major email clients such as Gmail and Outlook. This option allows you to create a personalized signature by incorporating additional elements, such as email signature banners, using more graphics, and including more details. You can find email signature examples for HTML here that you can customize accordingly. Email Signature Template You can create email signatures with signature generators, an email signature maker, and various signature templates. You can utilize a free email signature generator to create your signature. If you’re in search of email signature templates, we are here to assist you. Feel free to use the template provided below and customize it by adding or editing items to make it uniquely yours. [Company’s logo on the left side] Your Name Your title | www.yourcompany website.com Telephone: XXX Mobile: XXX Email: yourname@yourcompany.com Address: Business address here [Social media icons below, linked to relevant company pages] How to Add an Email Signature to Your Email Most major email clients let you set up an email signature in just a few clicks, so it’s a simple step that can have a significant impact on your business. Here’s how to set up your email signature, including Gmail email signatures and For Outlook email signatures: Navigate to Settings in your Outlook and select ‘view all settings for your Outlook.’ Select Mail and then select Compose and Reply You’ll see an option for ’email signature’ where you can set up your signature and format it as needed. Once the entire signature is formatted, you can select whether you want the email signature to appear only in new emails by choosing the ‘Automatically include my signature on new messages I compose.’ For Gmail email signatures: Navigate to settings and select ‘See all settings.’ You’ll then see a ‘Signature’ section where you can format and add your signature, including multiple signatures as well, if you’d prefer. Once you have formatted your email signature, you’ll just need to click ‘Save changes’ for it to take effect. Tips for Creating the Perfect Email Signature Crafting an ideal company email signature involves acknowledging the individual while also aligning with the company’s branding needs and marketing opportunities. Here are some tips on how to create the perfect email signature: Add a logo: Adding your company logo can make your email signature look more professional, as it adds a visual element to make it more interesting. Incorporate a marketing campaign: Where possible, try to incorporate marketing campaign taglines, articles, and even a recent blog post to create more visibility for the brand. Prioritize Readability: Make certain that your email signature is easy to read. Use a clear font along with an appropriate font size, and ensure there is good contrast between the text and the background. Steer clear of script or overly decorative fonts that could be difficult for some individuals to read. Opt for a Clean Layout: Organize the information in your signature in a logical manner. If your signature is too busy or cluttered, key details may be overlooked. A simple and clean layout ensures that the recipient can quickly find the information they’re looking for. Limit the Number of Links: While it’s tempting to link to every social media platform and webpage you’re involved with, too many links can be overwhelming. Stick to the most important and relevant links, and consider using link shorteners if necessary to keep the signature tidy. Avoid Large Images or Files: Using large images or attaching files (like vCards) to your signature can make your emails bulkier and increase the chances of them being flagged as spam. If you include a company logo or other graphic, ensure it’s optimized for email and is of a reasonable size. Test Your Signature: Before finalizing your email signature, send test emails to different email clients (like Gmail, Outlook, and Yahoo) and check them on various devices (desktop, tablet, mobile). This ensures your signature looks consistent and as intended, regardless of how the recipient is viewing it. Promote your social media: You can add links to social media sites by using social media icons is a creative way to market your brand while building out your email signature. Be consistent: If you are adding an email signature, encourage other employees to do so to ensure that each team member presents themselves professionally with up-to-date information using the existing signature structure. Include different types of contact information: Not everyone prefers to respond to an email, so having other contact information, including a direct line, ensures that recipients can get in touch with you. Image: Depositphotos This article, "Email Signature Examples to Help Create Your Own" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Email signatures are a crucial part of a business email and have a lot of importance. The presence of an email signature can tell a recipient who you are, what you do, and the best ways to get in touch with you. A well-crafted, relevant email signature can have a lot of benefits for your business. We’ll look at what an email signature is and why it’s important, plus email signature examples to help you create your own. What is an Email Signature? An email signature is a combination of text and images that goes at the end of every email you send. Depending on your email client, you can create an email signature that adds to every email you send. If you pay attention to your emails, you’ll likely see that most professional emails have some kind of a signature at the end as a sign-off. Why do I Need a Business Email Signature? There are many reasons why a business email signature is helpful. The easiest way to think of it is as a type of business card. It tells the recipient who you are, where you work, and how to get in touch with you. And don’t forget to keep email signature best practices in mind. Here are a few reasons why you should consider a business email signature: AspectDescription Contact InformationIt's an easy way to provide all your contact information in one place, rather than having to type it out every time. PromotionYour email signature works as a marketing channel since it includes key information about your company and serves as a form of brand awareness. Personal TouchAn email signature adds a more personal element to your email and creates a connection with the recipient right away. ProfessionalismAn email signature is a way to build trust, especially if you haven't contacted the recipient before, as it shows that you are part of a company. Encourages ActionDepending on the structure of your email signature and email, you can use email signatures as a call to action tool to encourage recipients to get back to you. What Should My Business Email Signature Include? There are some integral components that go into creating an email signature block, such as: Name Job title Your company name, company logo, and even your department if appropriate Contact details such as a direct phone number Secondary contact information such as other direct lines, work phones, etc. Social icons that link out to relevant social media pages for your company Any awards you or your company have won A call to action (if relevant) Simple Email Signature Examples We’ll look at some simple email signature examples to help you get started. Example 1: Name Title Company Phone You can use this example for your personal brand, as professional email signature templates usually contain this information at the minimum. Example 2: Name Title Company Website This is a basic email signature that is best if you’d rather not provide a phone number or for email inboxes monitored by multiple people. Example 3: Name Title Company Phone Website A more comprehensive email signature that can work well as a marketing rep email signature and for other professional services. Note that you can add a business logo to these email signatures if you’d like, but it’s not necessarily a requirement if you’d like to keep them simple. Funny (But Professional) Email Signature Examples For those looking to add a little wit and sass to their email signature, you can find some email signatures examples here that could be useful. The best way to add a funny saying to your email signature is to use one of the examples here, and add a funny saying or phrase to it. They can be a great addition for departments such as customer service and marketing where a more personal connection needs to be established. Funny email signature example 1: Name Title Company Phone Funny saying here Funny email signature example 2: Name Title Company Funny saying here Website Professional Email Signature Examples Including professional email signatures to your email is incredibly crucial for both business owners an employees. Corporate email signatures are key for recipients since they can quickly understand what you do and how they might know you. Here are some professional signature examples that you can use. Example 1: Name Corporate logo, Title, and Department Company Website Social media links Example 2: Name Corporate logo, Title, and Department Company Phone Website Social media links Example 3: Name Company Title and Department Phone Website Social media icons Personal Email Signature Examples For those seeking something a little more personal and perhaps something casual, email signatures can be reworked to be less formal. Here are some of the best examples of business email signatures that don’t feel as business-like. Example 1 Name Title Phone Example 2 Name Phone Website Example 3 Name Title Phone Creative Email Signature Examples Some professions may require a unique style of email signature. For instance, a graphic designer’s email signature might benefit from a more visually appealing design than those in other fields. Additionally, you can explore funny phone signature ideas suitable for your smartphone or tablet. Below are some creative email signature examples to inspire you: Example 1 Brand logo Name Title Company Phone Website Social media icons Example 2 Brand logo Name Title Phone Portfolio link Example 2 Brand logo Name Title Phone Website HTML Email Signature For a more dynamic and visual email signature, HTML formatting can help. Although it might seem complicated, there are many HTML signature examples that can be used with most major email clients such as Gmail and Outlook. This option allows you to create a personalized signature by incorporating additional elements, such as email signature banners, using more graphics, and including more details. You can find email signature examples for HTML here that you can customize accordingly. Email Signature Template You can create email signatures with signature generators, an email signature maker, and various signature templates. You can utilize a free email signature generator to create your signature. If you’re in search of email signature templates, we are here to assist you. Feel free to use the template provided below and customize it by adding or editing items to make it uniquely yours. [Company’s logo on the left side] Your Name Your title | www.yourcompany website.com Telephone: XXX Mobile: XXX Email: yourname@yourcompany.com Address: Business address here [Social media icons below, linked to relevant company pages] How to Add an Email Signature to Your Email Most major email clients let you set up an email signature in just a few clicks, so it’s a simple step that can have a significant impact on your business. Here’s how to set up your email signature, including Gmail email signatures and For Outlook email signatures: Navigate to Settings in your Outlook and select ‘view all settings for your Outlook.’ Select Mail and then select Compose and Reply You’ll see an option for ’email signature’ where you can set up your signature and format it as needed. Once the entire signature is formatted, you can select whether you want the email signature to appear only in new emails by choosing the ‘Automatically include my signature on new messages I compose.’ For Gmail email signatures: Navigate to settings and select ‘See all settings.’ You’ll then see a ‘Signature’ section where you can format and add your signature, including multiple signatures as well, if you’d prefer. Once you have formatted your email signature, you’ll just need to click ‘Save changes’ for it to take effect. Tips for Creating the Perfect Email Signature Crafting an ideal company email signature involves acknowledging the individual while also aligning with the company’s branding needs and marketing opportunities. Here are some tips on how to create the perfect email signature: Add a logo: Adding your company logo can make your email signature look more professional, as it adds a visual element to make it more interesting. Incorporate a marketing campaign: Where possible, try to incorporate marketing campaign taglines, articles, and even a recent blog post to create more visibility for the brand. Prioritize Readability: Make certain that your email signature is easy to read. Use a clear font along with an appropriate font size, and ensure there is good contrast between the text and the background. Steer clear of script or overly decorative fonts that could be difficult for some individuals to read. Opt for a Clean Layout: Organize the information in your signature in a logical manner. If your signature is too busy or cluttered, key details may be overlooked. A simple and clean layout ensures that the recipient can quickly find the information they’re looking for. Limit the Number of Links: While it’s tempting to link to every social media platform and webpage you’re involved with, too many links can be overwhelming. Stick to the most important and relevant links, and consider using link shorteners if necessary to keep the signature tidy. Avoid Large Images or Files: Using large images or attaching files (like vCards) to your signature can make your emails bulkier and increase the chances of them being flagged as spam. If you include a company logo or other graphic, ensure it’s optimized for email and is of a reasonable size. Test Your Signature: Before finalizing your email signature, send test emails to different email clients (like Gmail, Outlook, and Yahoo) and check them on various devices (desktop, tablet, mobile). This ensures your signature looks consistent and as intended, regardless of how the recipient is viewing it. Promote your social media: You can add links to social media sites by using social media icons is a creative way to market your brand while building out your email signature. Be consistent: If you are adding an email signature, encourage other employees to do so to ensure that each team member presents themselves professionally with up-to-date information using the existing signature structure. Include different types of contact information: Not everyone prefers to respond to an email, so having other contact information, including a direct line, ensures that recipients can get in touch with you. Image: Depositphotos This article, "Email Signature Examples to Help Create Your Own" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Ministers are looking at scrapping popular cash Isas to encourage investment in London stock marketView the full article

Facebook now deletes live videos after 30 days, offering tools to download or transfer content before removal. The post Facebook Now Deletes Live Videos After 30 Days appeared first on Search Engine Journal. View the full article

The U.S. Justice Department’s senior ethics official resigned on Tuesday, after President Donald Trump’s administration pulled him off his duties and assigned him to a new sanctuary cities working group, a person familiar with the matter told Reuters. The official, Bradley Weinsheimer, decided to accept the government’s deferred resignation offer rather than accept the reassignment, the latest in a string of nonpolitical career Justice Department officials who have resisted efforts that they say politicize investigations. Dozens of career Justice Department officials — who normally remain in office from one administration to the next — in cities including Washington and New York have been fired, reassigned or quit since Trump took office on January 20, after he vowed to rapidly shake up a department that he says was used against him during his years out of power. Last week, seven people resigned in protest, including two top officials who oversee the most politically sensitive investigations, after acting Deputy Attorney General Emil Bove ordered them to drop criminal corruption charges against New York City Mayor Eric Adams. Weinsheimer, a 34-year department veteran who was named to his current role as associate deputy attorney general during Trump’s first term, provided ethics counsel to department officials related to conflicts of interest, including on decisions related to when they should be recused from working on particular cases. He also reviewed disciplinary recommendations by the Office of Professional Responsibility, which investigates attorney misconduct, and referrals for discipline or prosecution from the Office of the Inspector General. Weinsheimer did not return a request for comment. When Reuters tried to reach him in the evening on Tuesday, his government email responded with an auto-generated message saying he was “on administrative leave pursuant to the deferred resignation program.” On January 27, around the same time Weinsheimer was reassigned, Bove delegated all ethics-related decisions to two political appointees. One of them, Kendra Wharton, previously worked alongside Bove and Todd Blanche, the president’s nominee to serve as deputy attorney general, to help defend Trump against criminal charges in New York alleging he falsified records to cover up hush money paid to a porn star. The other, Bove’s chief of staff Jordan Fox, graduated law school in 2021, according to her LinkedIn profile. “Bradley is the senior career ethics official at the Justice Department and provides advice to people across the country and in the building on really important and weighty matters,” said Joyce Vance, the former U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Alabama, noting that the job he performed was apolitical. She said the reassignment of ethical decision-making to two political appointees is troubling, adding: “This is evidence that the Justice Department is being weaponized.” Chad Gilmartin, a spokesman for the Justice Department, rejected any criticism of the move by Bove to delegate the ethics decision-making to Wharton and Fox. “Kendra has a decade of experience as a criminal defense lawyer, which is exactly the mindset we want in such a role,” he said. He added that Fox “is a highly respected attorney.” Attorney General Pam Bondi, Blanche and Bove, who will serve as principal associate deputy attorney general once Blanche is confirmed by the U.S. Senate, all previously served as defense attorneys for Trump. The White House has previously argued that the Department of Justice was weaponized against Trump when it pursued charges against him for retaining classified documents and subverting the 2020 election. The department dropped both cases after Trump won the November 2024 election, citing a longstanding policy against prosecuting a sitting president. On Bondi’s first day as Attorney General, she issued a directive creating a new “weaponization working group” that would be tasked with reviewing two criminal cases brought against Trump by former Special Counsel Jack Smith for retaining classified documents and trying to subvert the 2020 presidential election, as well as Trump’s conviction in New York. —Sarah N. Lynch, Reuters View the full article

Ukrainian president’s remarks come as US counterpart appeared to blame Kyiv for war with RussiaView the full article

Lab assistant powered by artificial intelligence can help generate scientific hypotheses View the full article

For over a year, I’ve been on a mission to declutter and elevate my wardrobe by replacing all of my cheap accessories with nicer versions—my own spin on the “one in, one out” cleaning method. Since I’m not made of money and largely stick to buying pre-owned luxury goods, it’s extra sustainable, which makes me feel good about the whole thing. The problem with buying pre-owned stuff, though, is that it’s usually pre-worn—like, really worn. I don’t blame my items’ previous caretakers when I get shoes, a bag, sunglasses, or a scarf that looks like it’s seen some horrors in its prime; if I spent top dollar on something, I’d run it into the ground to get every cent's worth, too. Part of the reason I get such a good deal on these things is that I have to do some maintenance when I get them, so it’s a fine trade-off. Last year, though, I got a pair of white sneakers that were so dirty I wasn’t sure if I would be able to fix them up. I did, of course. I’m a woman of perseverance and life hacks. Here’s what worked to make my busted old shoes clean again (and what didn’t). VinegarSeemingly every day, I investigate a household hack that involves using vinegar in place of more intense or expensive cleaners and products. You can clean a steamer, clean your humidifier, unclog a sink, descale your coffee maker, and—according to some how-tos I watched—clean old sneakers. I decided to give it a shot. Here’s what I was working with when I set out on the mission: Credit: Lindsey Ellefson We got scuffs. We got yellow stains. We got brown stains. Baby, we got it all. Would vinegar fix any of it? As it turns out, no! I started by using an old toothbrush to work vinegar into the stains. As I suspected, not much happened, but I was surprised when adding baking soda to the mix also produced zero results. While vinegar and baking soda don't do anything to clean together, I do typically find that the bubbles they create when mixed can agitate dirt out of surfaces. Here, it did nothing. Verdict: I'm not saying this wouldn't work if you had small stains, maybe comprised of different messes than whatever was on my shoes. I'm only saying this did not help me whiten mine. What vinegar is good for, though, is deodorizing shoes, so this wasn't a total waste for me. I use a mixture of half vinegar and half water and spray the inside of my cycling shoes to de-stink them, for instance. Feel free to try this vinegar hack on your stains and, if it doesn't work, take comfort that you at least beat back some odors, like I did. Nail polish removerAfter fruitlessly scrubbing at the scuffs with my toothbrush and vinegar, I recalled that I tested out a hack for removing scuffs from patent leather using nail polish remover a few months ago. I decided to give that a shot, focusing on the scuffs around the soles rather than the stains on the fabric. It took some major elbow grease, but the scuffs all came off after a bunch of scrubbing with the remover and a paper towel. Just to see what would happen, I even dabbed some onto the stains on the body of the shoes and saw a slight improvement, but I wanted to hit those with a different approach, so I switched gears. Verdict: Use nail polish remover to get scuffs off rubber or other harder parts of the shoe. Its acidic properties can even help lighten smaller stains on the body. Melamine spongesSomewhere between vinegar and nail polish remover, I went back to the drawing board and started Googling additional ways to clean up old shoes. I saw Mr. Clean Magic erasers being heralded as a solid option (even on this fine website), so I went out and got some. Credit: Lindsey Ellefson They worked ridiculously well. I’ve never used melamine sponges to clean fabrics before and wasn’t sure what to expect, but I really didn't like the idea of fully submerging my shoes in water, so this spot-treating technique was my last hope before filling the sink. The yellow stains came away almost instantly with a little rubbing and the Magic Eraser even snatched up some remaining scuff marks that my nail polish left behind. Be careful of one thing, though: The first time I did this, I thought it worked great, but I noticed that by pressing the wet sponge into the material, I was actually just broadening the stain. Where I had a dark, circular stain before, I now had a much larger, lighter stain, as the water just kind of dragged the mess around. Be sure to dab carefully and fully with a dry rag to remove all the water. Verdict: This works really well, provided you fully dry the sneakers after application of the melamine sponge. ToothpasteI wore those white shoes pretty frequently after whipping them into shape, but when I went to add them as an option on the app I use to rent out my clothing and accessories last week, I noticed they were looking a little beat-up again. Specifically, one of them had a brown stain that was really ugly. Sure, I could have used my Mr. Clean, but I wanted to test another hack I've heard about, so today, I scrubbed them with toothpaste. A little toothpaste spot-test on the left vs. the final result on the right Credit: Lindsey Ellefson I spot-tested first, putting a dab of white toothpaste on a small section of the shoe and leaving it for 20 minutes before scrubbing it off. It worked amazingly. There was a clear line of demarcation where the paste had been. Eagerly, I rubbed toothpaste into all the remaining parts of the shoe's upper. I spread it in a thin layer and—I won't lie—I just used my hands for this. You can, of course, use a spoon or something else to spread it on. I didn't agitate it at first (or else I would have spread it on with an old toothbrush) and just let it sit there. I've becomes less precious about not soaking the shoes in water, so when the 20 minutes was up, I ran them under the faucet and used the brush to scrub all the toothpaste out. Now, they're drying by the radiator and absolutely glistening white. You will need to really scrub to get the toothpaste out, so make sure your brush is sturdy. I even used my fingernails a few times to really scratch it out. You'll need water, too, so they will end up wet. Make sure you do this at least 24 hours before you need to wear the shoes. Ideally, dry them outside for a day or at least put them by a radiator or fan. Verdict: Do this right away. Perfectly clean, bright shoes. Overall thoughts on cleaning white sneakersThe Magic Eraser and nail polish remover helped me in my quest to avoid dunking the shoes in soapy water, so I recommend them wholeheartedly, but once I got over my fear of fully soaking the shoes, toothpaste was the clear winner. What I like best about all of these approaches is they cost less than $10 each. I didn't use a name-brand toothpaste, but rather some random stuff my mom sent me because her dentist recommended it to her. I avoided using my blue toothpaste because I didn't feel like tempting fate and possibly re-staining the shoe, but white toothpaste worked just right. View the full article

In the crowded field of AI-powered SEO tools, one open-source large language model (LLM) is quietly gaining traction: DeepSeek. While giants like Google and OpenAI dominate the LLM landscape, DeepSeek offers a different approach. Free to use and with a focus on coding and logical reasoning, it presents a unique opportunity for SEOs, particularly those focused on technical optimization. Is DeepSeek the hidden gem SEOs have been searching for, or are its limitations too significant to ignore? Let’s dive in. What is DeepSeek? DeepSeek is an open-source large language model developed by DeepSeek AI, a China-based research lab. It was launched in late 2023 as part of a growing wave of open-source alternatives to proprietary models like ChatGPT and Gemini. While still relatively new, DeepSeek has started gaining attention, particularly from developers and technical users, for its strengths in coding, logic-based tasks, and automation. Several key features define DeepSeek: Open-source and customizable: Anyone can access, modify, and self-host the model. For SEOs, this offers the potential for customization, cost savings, and control over data privacy. Highly cost-effective: The model is free to use, and self-hosting can reduce reliance on paid APIs from proprietary platforms like OpenAI. Resource-efficient: DeepSeek is designed to run efficiently compared to other large models, making it more accessible to those with limited computing resources. Some real-time information access: While not as robust as Perplexity, DeepSeek has shown limited capability in pulling more current information, though this is not its primary strength. Strong in coding and automation: DeepSeek excels in generating scripts, solving logic-based problems, and assisting with technical SEO tasks – areas where other LLMs may fall short. These features, however, come with their share of limitations: Content and language limitations: DeepSeek generally struggles to produce high-quality content compared to ChatGPT and Gemini. It also lacks strong multimodal support for integrating images or other media into its outputs. Lower accuracy: It can return inaccurate or incomplete information, especially for complex, nuanced, or factual queries. This is especially true when dealing with news or misinformation detection. It failed 83% of the time when tested against false narratives, a NewsGuard evaluation found. Censorship and bias: The official version of DeepSeek has been found to censor responses to certain politically sensitive topics, particularly those related to China. Security concerns: Using DeepSeek’s hosted API involves sending data to servers in China, raising privacy concerns. However, self-hosting the model locally or on a private server removes this risk and gives users full control over security. Smaller ecosystem: Compared to ChatGPT or Gemini, DeepSeek has a smaller community and fewer third-party tools, meaning users may need to be more self-sufficient when troubleshooting or building custom applications. The sample above highlights DeepSeek’s limitations with factual accuracy, revealing that its knowledge cutoff is October 2023. In short, DeepSeek offers a compelling blend of open-source flexibility, cost-effectiveness, and specialized strengths in coding and automation. While its limitations in content generation, accuracy, and potential security concerns are undeniable, they shouldn’t overshadow its potential value for technical SEOs. DeepSeek’s potential for SEO: Where it may have an edge Most AI tools marketed to SEOs focus on content – drafting articles, rewriting meta descriptions, or summarizing search trends. But DeepSeek isn’t trying to be a better writer. It’s built for logic-based tasks, meaning its strengths align more with automation, pattern recognition, and large-scale technical problem-solving. This makes it a different beast altogether and one that requires a distinct approach. For SEOs working with thousands of URLs and complex site structures, DeepSeek presents an opportunity to move beyond one-off prompts and into scalable solutions. Instead of asking an AI how to fix a problem, SEOs could integrate DeepSeek into their workflows to actively detect, diagnose, and even resolve technical SEO challenges at scale. However, this integration isn’t as simple as clicking a button. It requires a certain level of technical expertise and a willingness to get your hands dirty with code. Let’s be clear: DeepSeek integration is not for the non-technical or faint of heart. That said, DeepSeek can still offer value without full-scale automation. For SEOs who just need help with schema generation, regex creation, or coding quick fixes, it can act as a technical assistant, often outperforming more general-purpose LLMs like ChatGPT in these areas. Whether you’re looking for one-off coding support or considering integrating it into a larger system, DeepSeek could be a real asset – but only for those with the right skillset or the resources to partner with developers. Dig deeper: Can AI perform technical SEO analysis effectively? Get the newsletter search marketers rely on. Business email address Sign me up! Processing... See terms. DeepSeek as your coding assistant Even without advanced integration, DeepSeek can be a valuable tool for SEOs who regularly tackle technical tasks. Its coding capabilities make it well-suited for one-off, ad hoc support – helping SEOs generate clean, functional code without needing deep programming expertise. For example, you could ask DeepSeek to: Write schema markup for a product page based on a few key details. Generate a regex pattern to match a set of URL parameters in your log files. Draft a Python script to pull data from multiple CSV exports and identify broken internal links. Suggest .htaccess rules for redirecting specific URL patterns after a site migration. The example above highlights the use of DeepSeek to provide guidance and build out schema markup. While models like ChatGPT can also handle these kinds of prompts, DeepSeek’s strength lies in its logic-based problem-solving and efficiency with code generation. SEOs frequently struggle with technical issues – like crawl anomalies, parameter handling, or data clean-up – and may find DeepSeek a more reliable partner for these tasks. It won’t replace a developer, and you’ll still need to review and test any code before deploying it. Still, for quick technical solutions, DeepSeek can reduce the back-and-forth and help SEOs work more independently on the coding side of their work. Building beyond prompts While DeepSeek can be a handy coding assistant for one-off technical tasks, its real power shows up when you stop thinking about prompts and start thinking about systems. For SEOs managing sprawling ecommerce catalogs, multi-location sites, or enterprise platforms, DeepSeek opens the door to automation at scale. We’re talking about moving past manual audits and into custom-built tools that process crawl data, analyze patterns, and surface technical SEO issues across thousands of URLs. This isn’t about asking, “How do I write a redirect rule?” It’s about building something to spot the broken ones for you and adapt to your specific URL structure. Here’s where DeepSeek could help SEOs not just work faster – but work smarter: Automated log file analysis Server logs tell the story of how search engines crawl your site – but reading millions of lines to find crawl waste? No thanks. DeepSeek could ingest these logs and highlight where Googlebot is burning crawl budget on junk – like search result pages with endless URL parameters. An international travel booking site could spot this early, adjust their robots.txt, and keep bots focused on the pages that matter. Pattern recognition for large sites At scale, small inconsistencies become big SEO problems – duplicate products split across URLs, orphaned categories, or thin content clusters. DeepSeek could scan URL patterns, internal links, or title tags and flag what doesn’t fit. Imagine a marketplace platform spotting products listed under both /products/blue-shoes and /product/blue-shoes. DeepSeek surfaces the issue. The SEO team cleans up the URLs. Authority consolidates. Rankings recover. Automating schema markup generation Schema helps you stand out in search, but building JSON-LD for every product or location? Painful. DeepSeek could turn raw business data into structured schema at scale. A national fitness franchise could feed in location details and class schedules – DeepSeek generates accurate markup for hundreds of pages, no manual copying and pasting required. Regex pattern suggestions for audits Regex is either your best friend or your worst enemy. It’s powerful – but getting it right can feel like solving a riddle in another language. DeepSeek could write regex based on plain English inputs, making audits faster and cleaner. An SEO agency working on a large news publisher could automate query pattern detection, catching duplicate versions of articles before they spiral into an indexation nightmare. Internal linking at scale Internal linking can boost rankings, but on large content sites, identifying gaps is a needle-in-a-haystack problem. DeepSeek could scan crawl data and keyword relationships, suggesting internal link opportunities across the site. A health publisher could automatically surface linking opportunities between evergreen guides and trending new content, strengthening topic clusters without manual digging. Why this matters While these tasks can be done manually or even through a series of individual prompts with other LLMs, that approach quickly becomes inefficient – and scaling it through paid APIs can get expensive. DeepSeek’s open-source nature offers a different path: the potential to automate and scale these processes efficiently and affordably. This isn’t about replacing human judgment. It’s about freeing up SEOs to focus on strategy while letting the machine handle the heavy lifting. But – and this is the recurring theme – it won’t do it out of the box. You need the technical know-how. You need to build the system. For those who do, DeepSeek could change how technical SEO work gets done. So, should SEOs care about DeepSeek? DeepSeek offers SEOs a unique blend of open-source flexibility, cost-effectiveness, and specialized technical capabilities. While it’s not a replacement for general-purpose LLMs like ChatGPT or Gemini, its strengths in automation and custom tooling make it an intriguing option for technically inclined SEOs. DeepSeek isn’t trying to be everything to everyone. It’s carving a niche in the realm of technical SEO, offering a specialized tool for automation, coding, and custom solutions. The future of DeepSeek is tied to its open-source nature. Community development will be key to addressing its current limitations, particularly in accuracy and complex reasoning. SEO-specific tuning could unlock its full potential, transforming it into a high-value asset for technical SEO professionals. Imagine a DeepSeek model specifically trained on SEO data, capable of generating highly accurate schema markup, analyzing complex log files with ease, or even predicting ranking fluctuations. The possibilities are intriguing. So, should SEOs care about DeepSeek? For those willing to invest the time and resources to understand its nuances and leverage its strengths, the answer is likely yes. It’s not a plug-and-play solution, and its limitations are real. Its open-source nature, combined with its specialized technical capabilities, makes it a model worth watching – and perhaps even helping to shape. However, if you’re searching for the next great content generation LLM? Keep walking. DeepSeek isn’t that. And it’s not trying to be. Dig deeper: Technical SEO: Don’t rush the process View the full article

Ever wondered what it would be like to wake up in Pompei on eruption day? How about how it would have felt to be a passenger on the Titanic? Now you don’t need to. A new TikTok trend lets you travel back in time via artificial intelligence and experience the POV of someone living though that time period. From waking up as a caveman in 40 B.C. to being the last person on earth in 2087, many of the most viral videos have been posted by creator @timetravellerpov. “The inspiration behind my videos is the desire to bring history to life in a way that feels immersive,” @timetravellerpov tells Fast Company over email. “Each one is designed to transport viewers into different eras, myths, and alternate realities—making them feel like they’ve stepped into another world.” While the account posted its first video just at the start of this year, it has quickly grown to over 329,000 followers with over 5.7 million likes. One viral example drops you in 1351 London during the Black Plague. The clip begins in bed before the POV takes you for a walk through the muddy streets. Here, everyone is sick and hungry. All you have left is a crust of bread, which you give to a beggar child. You visit your sick mother in the quarantine zone and try not to catch the deadly disease. Spoiler alert: It doesn’t end well. Each video takes @timetravellerpov around four hours to bring to life. You can tell the content is AI because, obviously, cameras didn’t exist in the 14th Century. However, the content is realistic enough to receive over 18.6 million views and thousands of comments. “Shoutout to the camera man,” one person wrote. “The only right way to use ai,” another added. “I just died in pompeii now I’m here give me a break,” a third commented. “I believe my videos have resonated with so many people because they tap into nostalgia, curiosity, and the desire to explore places and moments we could never otherwise experience,” says @timetravellerpov. “For me, it’s all about creating that ‘wow’ moment—where someone watches and says, ‘I feel like I’m actually there.’” While the Black Plague might not be everyone’s first choice of time period to travel back to, the trend has since taken an even darker turn. Other POV videos posted by different creators include being a student during COVID-19, a worker in the World Trade Centre on September 11, 2001, or living through President John F. Kennedy‘s assassination. But the trend isn’t just for experiencing the darkest days in history. For those wishing to travel back to happier times, one of @timetravellerpov’s videos lets viewers experience a day in the life of a child living in England in the 2000s. Here, the POV takes you under a parachute in the school playground and on a trip to the now-defunct video store Blockbuster. “I know this is AI, but damn that felt real,” one viewer commented under the video. “Nah this is too sad, take me back to Pompeii,” added another. View the full article

Raycast, which is a more fully featured alternative to your Mac's Spotlight Search, has finally added a "hyper key" to its long list of features. The idea behind a hyper key is simple: you press one button, but your computer thinks you've pressed multiple buttons. Raycast lets you map the Hyper Key to all of your Mac's modifier keys, which means you can use it to press Command-Control-Option-Shift without mastering some kind of complex finger yoga. Just hit the one button and your Mac will think all the modifier keys are being pressed at the same time. Why would you want to do that? Well, it means you can create completely new keyboard shortcuts that don't interfere with the system defaults. To get started, open Raycast and go to the app's Settings. If you're not sure how to get there, just press Command-, (comma) when Raycast is open. Go to the Advanced tab and click the drop-down menu next to Hyper Key. This lets you choose which button to map to the Hyper Key. You can choose one of the following: Caps Lock Control Shift Option Command Right Control (note that this key doesn't exist on some Mac keyboards) Right Shift Right Option Right Command I chose Caps Lock because I hardly ever use that button. Then, I mapped Caps Lock-Tab as a shortcut for opening Pieoneer, an exciting new launcher app for your Mac. The good thing is that Raycast's Hyper Key feature is available for free, and you can map it to system-level shortcuts, too. In fact, I don't use the Hyper Key for any Raycast-related actions at all. Very few app shortcuts require you to use all the modifier keys at the same time, which makes it perfect for setting up a bunch of shortcuts that don't interfere with others. You can even make common system tasks such as taking screenshots a lot easier with the Hyper Key. For instance, instead of pressing Command-Control-Shift-3 to copy a full-page screenshot to the clipboard, you could map it to Raycast's Hyper Key to make Caps Lock-3 your shortcut instead. For a keyboard shortcut nerd like me, this opens up endless possibilities. In the odd chance you end up with a binding conflict, you can also check out common Hyper Key troubleshooting tips on the company's website. View the full article

Shares in Super Micro Computer, Inc. (Nasdaq: SMCI) are once again rising in premarket trading this morning. As of the time of this writing, SMCI stock is up over 6% to $59.25 per share. That rise is in addition to the more than 16% rise in the stock yesterday. When looking back year-to-date, Super Micro Computer (aka Supermicro) has seen shares rise over 83% as of yesterday’s close. It is now at highs not seen since late August when a spate of bad news, including alleged accounting issues, kicked off a months-long drop in the stock’s price. The turnaround in SMCI’s stock price fortunes has been especially evident over the last five days. During that time, SMCI shares were up over 30% as of yesterday’s close. But why? There are two likely reasons: Supermicro ‘believes’ it will file critical SEC paperwork on time One of the problems that have rattled Supermicro investors is company’s delayed filing of its Form 10-K with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The form should have been filed last year, and if Supermicro does not file it by February 25, which is next Tuesday, the company could be delisted from the Nasdaq stock exchange. But as Fast Company previously reported, Supermicro last week announced that it believes it will be able to make that deadline. The statement was music to investors’ ears. “Supermicro continues to work diligently toward the filing of its Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2024, and its Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the period ended September 30, 2024,” the company said in a statement. “Based on information currently available, the Company believes it will make such filings by February 25, 2025.” A strong 2026 forecast Last week, Supermicro announced its second-quarter fiscal 2025 results. With those results, the company also updated its projected revenue for full-year fiscal 2025 and fiscal 2026. While Supermicro lowered its fiscal 2025 projected revenue forecast, the company raised its 2026 forecast. Supermicro now suggests that it will make over $40 billion in revenue in fiscal 2026. Some of that revenue increase is partly due to another company—Nvidia. As companies adopt the new line of Nvidia Blackwell GPUs to power their AI needs, many will need the server racks that Supermicro makes to deploy them, thus giving Supermicro sales a boost. “With our leading direct-liquid cooling (DLC) technology and over 30% of new data centers expected to adopt it in the next 12 months, Supermicro is well positioned to grow AI infrastructure designs wins based on NVIDIA Blackwell and more,” CEO Charles Liang said last week. He continued, “[We] will expand our leadership as the premier US-based data center infrastructure solution provider.” Where does SMCI stock go from here? Of course, revenue forecasts are just that—forecasts, not guarantees. And despite Super Micro Computer’s statement that it “believes” it will be able to file its delinquent SEC form by next Tuesday’s deadline, nothing is certain until the forms are actually submitted. Yet investor optimism seems strong regardless given SMCI’s stock price surge over the past five trading days and since the beginning of the year. But even though SMCI stock is up over 30% in the past five days and over 83% since the beginning of the year, the company’s stock price is still down by more than 30% over the past 12 months as of yesterday’s close. Where it goes from here is anyone’s guess, but the next big driver of its rise or fall will likely be confirmation of whether it was able to file its missing 10-K form by February 25. View the full article

Self-employed individuals often have unique tax requirements that can be overwhelming to manage during tax season. If you are looking for the best tax software for self-employed people, this article has great options. This software offers a combination of user-friendliness, affordability, and robust features. Tax software can help you understand how to file self-employment taxes and make the process easier by streamlining the filing process and providing guidance on available deductions and 1099 rules. Choosing the Best Tax Software for Self-Employed Individuals: Our Methodology In our quest to provide self-employed professionals with the most reliable and efficient tax software options, we rigorously evaluate each product based on specific criteria. These criteria are rated on a scale of 1 to 5, where 1 indicates lesser importance and 5 signifies critical importance to our evaluation process: Ease of Use Importance: 4 We prioritize software that offers an intuitive and user-friendly experience. A streamlined and simple interface is crucial for time-strapped entrepreneurs. Specific Features for Self-Employed Individuals Importance: 5 It is crucial for the software to offer specialized features like Schedule C support, expense tracking, and the capability to separately manage personal and business expenses. These features are vital for effectively navigating the complexities of self-employment taxes. Accuracy and Compliance Importance: 5 Accuracy in tax calculations and compliance with the latest tax laws are non-negotiable. We focus on software that guarantees up-to-date compliance to avoid legal issues. Cost-Effectiveness Importance: 3 We consider the balance between cost and functionality. Affordability is important, but not at the expense of essential features and reliability. Customer Support and Resources Importance: 4 Strong customer support is crucial, especially for complex self-employed tax situations. We look for software offering comprehensive help through various channels. Security Importance: 5 Given the sensitive nature of tax data, robust security measures are imperative. We only recommend software with stringent security protocols. Integration with Other Tools Importance: 3 The ability to integrate with other business and financial tools is a valuable feature that can enhance the overall tax preparation process. Audit Assistance Importance: 4 Software that provides audit support or guidance is highly regarded, as it can be a critical aid in the unlikely event of an audit. Our evaluation is designed to ensure that the tax software we recommend not only meets the essential requirements for tax filing but also supports the diverse needs of self-employed professionals effectively. Best Self-Employed Tax Software Programs To help you choose the best self-employed tax software program for your business, we’ve compiled a list of some of the top options available. These programs stand out for their user-friendly interfaces, comprehensive features, and affordability. Turbotax Self Employed TurboTax Self-Employed is a tax solution aimed at independent contractors and freelancers in the United States. With a rating of 4.6/5 from 9,463 reviews, TurboTax Self-Employed offers a range of features, including industry-specific deductions, searching for 500 tax deductions and credits, personalized audit risk assessment, and self-employment tax guidance. The software is also available in Spanish. TurboTax Self-Employed offers step-by-step guidance, allows users to snap and auto-fill their 1099-NEC and 1099-K forms, and syncs with financial accounts to find and categorize work-related deductions. The software costs $129 for a federal tax return and $39 for state taxes. Quickbooks Self Employed QuickBooks Self-Employed provides small businesses and independent contractors with basic bookkeeping tools to help them get ahead. Made specifically for self-employed businesses, features include tracking mileage automatically via GPS, importing expenses from bank accounts, organizing receipts through photo categorization, running built-in reports to analyze business performance, and estimating and filing taxes. The software offers three flexible plans with varying levels of features, including a bundle with Intuit TurboTax Self-Employed that enables direct payment of quarterly estimated taxes and access to real CPAs for advice and help with filing. QuickBooks also automatically syncs all bank and credit card transactions for seamless tracking of income and expenses. H&R Block Self-Employed Online H&R Block offers an online tax filing service, specifically designed for self-employed individuals and small business owners. The service includes features such as personalized guidance, technical support, and expense tracking, as well as easy importing of Uber income and support for reporting cryptocurrency sales. H&R Block offers several guarantees, including a Max Refund Guarantee and an Accuracy Guarantee. The service also provides access to live phone or chat tech support and the ability to digitally organize tax documents for up to six years. It costs $85 plus $37 per state filed. TaxSlayer Self-Employed TaxSlayer offers a tax preparation service for self-employed individuals, including small business owners, contractors, and those with both 1099 and W-2 income. The service costs $52.95 plus state fees and provides support for entering business income and expenses, maximizing deductions, and accessing tax tips and resources. Users also have access to a tax professional with self-employed expertise for more complex tax questions and audit defense for three years. Tax payment reminders are also available to avoid unnecessary fees. TaxSlayer has been in operation for over 50 years and has a 4.4 out of 5 rating on Trustpilot. FreeTaxUSA FreeTaxUSA is a tax preparation software that allows small business owners to prepare and e-file their federal and state taxes. Federal taxes are free, while state tax returns are $14.99. The software supports various tax forms and deductions, including self-employed income, rental income, health insurance costs, vehicle expenses, and more. The company earns revenue from optional services and state tax returns. The platform also provides customer support and guarantees that users won’t pay extra to file if they are self-employed, own a home, or have investments. FreeTaxUSA has filed over 50 million tax returns securely with the IRS. TaxAct Self-Employed TaxAct Self-Employed offers tax preparation services for freelancers, independent contractors, small business owners, and sole proprietors. For $69.99 it helps users take advantage of all tax deductions they’re eligible for and offer year-round support for business and quarterly taxes. TaxAct can import data from TurboTax and H&R Block returns, and their products are easy to use, accurate, and secure. TaxAct Alerts ensures that users avoid errors, omissions, and missed tax-saving opportunities. TaxAct also offers a Maximum Refund Guarantee, Xpert Assist, and a $100K Accuracy Guarantee. Users can access and print prior returns for up to seven years after filing. eSmart Tax Premium eSmart Tax, now a part of Liberty Tax, is a tax preparation service that offers its Premium package for $85.95, best suited for small business owners or those with less common forms of income. The package covers self-employment income and related deductions, rental or farming income, and more. eSmart Tax guarantees fast and accurate calculations and promises to reimburse any penalties or interest resulting from miscalculations. The Liberty Tax Service provides features such as audit protection and tax break checks. eSmart Tax guarantees 100% accuracy and promises to provide the biggest tax refund possible or reimburse the tax preparation fees. E-file.com Premium Plus E-file.com offers online tax preparation software that helps people file their income taxes quickly, easily, and accurately. Users can sign up for a free account, enter their tax info and income figures, and any deductions, and the software will calculate and prepare their returns. E-file.com provides full-featured online tax software at a significant discount to other programs. The Premium Plus federal e-file is $37.49 plus $22.49 for the state with a coupon code. FreshBooks FreshBooks is a user-friendly and top accounting software for self-employed individuals. It makes accounting, invoicing, time tracking, and reporting effortless. The software allows users to automate tasks such as organizing expenses, tracking time, and following up with customers. FreshBooks offers online payment solutions that get users paid 11 days faster, send automated late payment reminders, and allow for the creation of recurring profiles. With FreshBooks, users can easily organize business expenses and track billable hours. Jackson Hewitt Online Jackson Hewitt Online offers online tax filing for a flat fee of $25 with a guarantee of the biggest refund. The service offers step-by-step instructions, live chat support, and automatic error checking. It also provides security features, including two-step identity verification, encrypted data transmission, and alerts for account activity. Jackson Hewitt also provides in-person tax filing services with flexible hours and locations, and a range of guarantees, including a Maximum Refund Guarantee and a Lifetime Accuracy Guarantee. SoftwareKey FeaturesPricingUnique Offerings TurboTax Self Employed- Industry-specific deductions - 500+ tax deductions and credits - Audit risk assessment$119 Federal, $59 State- Snap and auto-fill 1099 forms - Syncs with financial accounts QuickBooks Self Employed- Mileage tracking via GPS - Import expenses from bank accounts - Organize receipts with photosVaries (Flexible plans)- Bundle with TurboTax for tax filing - Access to CPAs H&R Block Self-Employed- Personalized guidance - Technical support - Cryptocurrency sales reporting$115 plus $45 per state- Digital organization of tax documents for 6 years - Max Refund and Accuracy Guarantees TaxSlayer Self-Employed- Business income and expense entry - Access to tax professionals$62.95 plus $39.95 per state- Audit defense for three years - Tax payment reminders FreeTaxUSA- Supports various tax forms and deductions - Free federal tax filingFree Federal, $14.99 State- No extra charge for complex tax situations - Secure filing with the IRS TaxAct Self-Employed- Year-round business and quarterly tax support - Data import from other tax services$99.99- $100K Accuracy Guarantee - Xpert Assist - Access and print prior returns for 7 years Liberty Tax- Self-employment income and deductions - Rental or farming income$85.95- Audit protection and tax break checks E-file.com Premium Plus- Easy, fast online tax preparation$37.49 Federal, $22.49 State with coupon- Significant discount compared to other programs FreshBooks- Accounting, invoicing, time tracking - Automated tasksVaries- Online payment solutions - Faster payment processing Jackson Hewitt Online- Step-by-step instructions - Live chat support - Automatic error checking$25 flat fee- In-person filing options - Maximum Refund and Lifetime Accuracy Guarantees What is tax software? Tax software is an essential tool for individuals, especially small business owners and self-employed professionals, to manage their tax affairs efficiently. In general, the best tax software for small businesses is designed to make tax preparation easier and more efficient. Here’s an overview of what tax software is and what it offers for small businesses. Digital Tax Assistance: Tax software is a digital program that significantly simplifies the tax filing process. It’s designed to assist users in calculating, preparing, and submitting their tax returns accurately and efficiently. Maximizes Deductions: A key benefit of utilizing tax software is its capability to assist taxpayers in recognizing and claiming all eligible deductions and credits. This functionality guarantees that users won’t overlook any potential savings. Affordable Option: Utilizing tax software allows individuals and small businesses to steer clear of the elevated expenses tied to hiring a professional accountant or acquiring costly tax preparation tools. User-Friendly Interface: The majority of tax software programs feature a user-friendly interface, allowing individuals without a background in finance or tax law to easily navigate the complexities of tax preparation. Time-Saving Features: These programs often include features like the ability to import previous years’ tax information, auto-fill forms with financial data, and more, which can save a considerable amount of time. Accuracy and Compliance: Tax software is regularly updated to reflect the latest tax laws and regulations, ensuring compliance and reducing the risk of errors that can lead to audits or penalties. Audit Support: Many tax software programs offer audit support, providing guidance on what to do if you’re audited by the IRS. Electronic Filing: The ability to e-file tax returns directly through the software streamlines the submission process and often leads to faster processing of refunds. Tailored for Specific Needs: The best tax software for small businesses is specifically designed to address the unique tax situations and challenges faced by small business owners, including handling self-employment income, tracking business expenses, and more. Additional Resources: Many tax software options also provide additional resources such as access to tax professionals, educational content about tax laws and financial planning, and tools for tracking and organizing receipts and expenses throughout the year. In summary, tax software is a valuable resource for simplifying and optimizing the tax filing process, offering a range of tools and features tailored to the needs of individuals and small business owners. Why should you consider self-employed accounting software? Self-employed accounting software provides numerous benefits for business owners. Here are five reasons why you should use tax software: Streamlines tax filing: Self-employed accounting software automates the tax filing process, reducing errors and saving time so you can focus more on your fun self-employed jobs. Organizes income and expenses: The software categorizes income and expenses, helping you track cash flow and identify tax deductions. Provides real-time financial insights: Self-employed accounting software delivers real-time financial insights, allowing you to make well-informed decisions. Provides data security: The software securely stores your financial data, protecting you from potential data breaches or losses. Cost-effective and user-friendly: The majority of accounting software for self-employed individuals is both affordable and easy to use, ensuring accessibility for businesses of any size. How to Choose the Best Tax Software for the Self-Employed Choosing the best tax software for self-employed individuals can be overwhelming. To make it easier, here are four factors to consider when making your decision: Available Tax Forms Not all tax software programs support every tax form, so it’s important to check if the program you’re considering supports the forms you need. For instance, Schedule C for sole proprietors, 1099-MISC for miscellaneous income, or Schedule SE for self-employment tax are critical for many self-employed individuals. Ensure the software you choose can handle these specific forms and any others relevant to your business. Cost Cost is an essential factor when selecting tax software for self-employed individuals. Some programs offer free versions with limited features, while others charge a premium for their services. Remember, though, that the cheapest option may not always meet your complex tax needs. Weigh the features offered against the price to determine which software provides the best value for your specific tax situation. User-Friendliness Look for a tax software program that is intuitive and user-friendly. The software should offer clear guidance and instructions throughout the tax filing process. A program that features a straightforward interface and step-by-step walkthroughs can make the complex task of filing self-employed taxes more manageable, especially if you’re not accustomed to the intricacies of tax laws and regulations. Customer Support If you’re new to tax filing or require assistance, look for a program that provides adequate customer support. Some programs offer phone support, chat support, or email support, so choose one that fits your needs. Additionally, consider whether the software provides access to tax professionals or CPAs who can offer expert advice and answer specific questions related to your self-employed income and deductions. This can be invaluable in ensuring you’re accurately reporting your income and maximizing your deductions. https://youtube.com/watch?v=TOpklhcGJ1o%3Fsi%3DTzEcjcEiCUufJ77n FAQ Can a self-employed person file their own taxes? Yes, self-employed individuals can file their own taxes using tax software or paper forms. However, it’s important to have a good understanding of tax laws and regulations to ensure compliance and minimize errors. Can a self-employed person file taxes for free? Yes, self-employed individuals can file their taxes for free using specific tax software programs such as FreeTaxUSA or by taking advantage of the free filing options provided by the IRS. The eligibility criteria differ depending on the program. Is it better to use a tax preparer or tax software if you’re self-employed? The choice between using a tax preparer or tax software depends on your individual preferences, budget, and specific tax circumstances. Typically, tax software is more cost-effective and easier to use, whereas a tax preparer offers tailored guidance and expert advice. What is the best accounting software for self-employed taxpayers? The best accounting software for self-employed taxpayers depends on your specific needs and budget. Popular options include QuickBooks Self-Employed, FreshBooks, and TaxSlayer Self-Employed. Which tax software is best for calculating self-employed business expenses? Many tax software programs offer features for calculating and deducting self-employed business expenses. Some popular options include TurboTax Self-Employed, H&R Block Self-Employed, and TaxAct Self-Employed. Image: Depositphotos This article, "The Best Tax Software for Self Employed People" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Self-employed individuals often have unique tax requirements that can be overwhelming to manage during tax season. If you are looking for the best tax software for self-employed people, this article has great options. This software offers a combination of user-friendliness, affordability, and robust features. Tax software can help you understand how to file self-employment taxes and make the process easier by streamlining the filing process and providing guidance on available deductions and 1099 rules. Choosing the Best Tax Software for Self-Employed Individuals: Our Methodology In our quest to provide self-employed professionals with the most reliable and efficient tax software options, we rigorously evaluate each product based on specific criteria. These criteria are rated on a scale of 1 to 5, where 1 indicates lesser importance and 5 signifies critical importance to our evaluation process: Ease of Use Importance: 4 We prioritize software that offers an intuitive and user-friendly experience. A streamlined and simple interface is crucial for time-strapped entrepreneurs. Specific Features for Self-Employed Individuals Importance: 5 It is crucial for the software to offer specialized features like Schedule C support, expense tracking, and the capability to separately manage personal and business expenses. These features are vital for effectively navigating the complexities of self-employment taxes. Accuracy and Compliance Importance: 5 Accuracy in tax calculations and compliance with the latest tax laws are non-negotiable. We focus on software that guarantees up-to-date compliance to avoid legal issues. Cost-Effectiveness Importance: 3 We consider the balance between cost and functionality. Affordability is important, but not at the expense of essential features and reliability. Customer Support and Resources Importance: 4 Strong customer support is crucial, especially for complex self-employed tax situations. We look for software offering comprehensive help through various channels. Security Importance: 5 Given the sensitive nature of tax data, robust security measures are imperative. We only recommend software with stringent security protocols. Integration with Other Tools Importance: 3 The ability to integrate with other business and financial tools is a valuable feature that can enhance the overall tax preparation process. Audit Assistance Importance: 4 Software that provides audit support or guidance is highly regarded, as it can be a critical aid in the unlikely event of an audit. Our evaluation is designed to ensure that the tax software we recommend not only meets the essential requirements for tax filing but also supports the diverse needs of self-employed professionals effectively. Best Self-Employed Tax Software Programs To help you choose the best self-employed tax software program for your business, we’ve compiled a list of some of the top options available. These programs stand out for their user-friendly interfaces, comprehensive features, and affordability. Turbotax Self Employed TurboTax Self-Employed is a tax solution aimed at independent contractors and freelancers in the United States. With a rating of 4.6/5 from 9,463 reviews, TurboTax Self-Employed offers a range of features, including industry-specific deductions, searching for 500 tax deductions and credits, personalized audit risk assessment, and self-employment tax guidance. The software is also available in Spanish. TurboTax Self-Employed offers step-by-step guidance, allows users to snap and auto-fill their 1099-NEC and 1099-K forms, and syncs with financial accounts to find and categorize work-related deductions. The software costs $129 for a federal tax return and $39 for state taxes. Quickbooks Self Employed QuickBooks Self-Employed provides small businesses and independent contractors with basic bookkeeping tools to help them get ahead. Made specifically for self-employed businesses, features include tracking mileage automatically via GPS, importing expenses from bank accounts, organizing receipts through photo categorization, running built-in reports to analyze business performance, and estimating and filing taxes. The software offers three flexible plans with varying levels of features, including a bundle with Intuit TurboTax Self-Employed that enables direct payment of quarterly estimated taxes and access to real CPAs for advice and help with filing. QuickBooks also automatically syncs all bank and credit card transactions for seamless tracking of income and expenses. H&R Block Self-Employed Online H&R Block offers an online tax filing service, specifically designed for self-employed individuals and small business owners. The service includes features such as personalized guidance, technical support, and expense tracking, as well as easy importing of Uber income and support for reporting cryptocurrency sales. H&R Block offers several guarantees, including a Max Refund Guarantee and an Accuracy Guarantee. The service also provides access to live phone or chat tech support and the ability to digitally organize tax documents for up to six years. It costs $85 plus $37 per state filed. TaxSlayer Self-Employed TaxSlayer offers a tax preparation service for self-employed individuals, including small business owners, contractors, and those with both 1099 and W-2 income. The service costs $52.95 plus state fees and provides support for entering business income and expenses, maximizing deductions, and accessing tax tips and resources. Users also have access to a tax professional with self-employed expertise for more complex tax questions and audit defense for three years. Tax payment reminders are also available to avoid unnecessary fees. TaxSlayer has been in operation for over 50 years and has a 4.4 out of 5 rating on Trustpilot. FreeTaxUSA FreeTaxUSA is a tax preparation software that allows small business owners to prepare and e-file their federal and state taxes. Federal taxes are free, while state tax returns are $14.99. The software supports various tax forms and deductions, including self-employed income, rental income, health insurance costs, vehicle expenses, and more. The company earns revenue from optional services and state tax returns. The platform also provides customer support and guarantees that users won’t pay extra to file if they are self-employed, own a home, or have investments. FreeTaxUSA has filed over 50 million tax returns securely with the IRS. TaxAct Self-Employed TaxAct Self-Employed offers tax preparation services for freelancers, independent contractors, small business owners, and sole proprietors. For $69.99 it helps users take advantage of all tax deductions they’re eligible for and offer year-round support for business and quarterly taxes. TaxAct can import data from TurboTax and H&R Block returns, and their products are easy to use, accurate, and secure. TaxAct Alerts ensures that users avoid errors, omissions, and missed tax-saving opportunities. TaxAct also offers a Maximum Refund Guarantee, Xpert Assist, and a $100K Accuracy Guarantee. Users can access and print prior returns for up to seven years after filing. eSmart Tax Premium eSmart Tax, now a part of Liberty Tax, is a tax preparation service that offers its Premium package for $85.95, best suited for small business owners or those with less common forms of income. The package covers self-employment income and related deductions, rental or farming income, and more. eSmart Tax guarantees fast and accurate calculations and promises to reimburse any penalties or interest resulting from miscalculations. The Liberty Tax Service provides features such as audit protection and tax break checks. eSmart Tax guarantees 100% accuracy and promises to provide the biggest tax refund possible or reimburse the tax preparation fees. E-file.com Premium Plus E-file.com offers online tax preparation software that helps people file their income taxes quickly, easily, and accurately. Users can sign up for a free account, enter their tax info and income figures, and any deductions, and the software will calculate and prepare their returns. E-file.com provides full-featured online tax software at a significant discount to other programs. The Premium Plus federal e-file is $37.49 plus $22.49 for the state with a coupon code. FreshBooks FreshBooks is a user-friendly and top accounting software for self-employed individuals. It makes accounting, invoicing, time tracking, and reporting effortless. The software allows users to automate tasks such as organizing expenses, tracking time, and following up with customers. FreshBooks offers online payment solutions that get users paid 11 days faster, send automated late payment reminders, and allow for the creation of recurring profiles. With FreshBooks, users can easily organize business expenses and track billable hours. Jackson Hewitt Online Jackson Hewitt Online offers online tax filing for a flat fee of $25 with a guarantee of the biggest refund. The service offers step-by-step instructions, live chat support, and automatic error checking. It also provides security features, including two-step identity verification, encrypted data transmission, and alerts for account activity. Jackson Hewitt also provides in-person tax filing services with flexible hours and locations, and a range of guarantees, including a Maximum Refund Guarantee and a Lifetime Accuracy Guarantee. SoftwareKey FeaturesPricingUnique Offerings TurboTax Self Employed- Industry-specific deductions - 500+ tax deductions and credits - Audit risk assessment$119 Federal, $59 State- Snap and auto-fill 1099 forms - Syncs with financial accounts QuickBooks Self Employed- Mileage tracking via GPS - Import expenses from bank accounts - Organize receipts with photosVaries (Flexible plans)- Bundle with TurboTax for tax filing - Access to CPAs H&R Block Self-Employed- Personalized guidance - Technical support - Cryptocurrency sales reporting$115 plus $45 per state- Digital organization of tax documents for 6 years - Max Refund and Accuracy Guarantees TaxSlayer Self-Employed- Business income and expense entry - Access to tax professionals$62.95 plus $39.95 per state- Audit defense for three years - Tax payment reminders FreeTaxUSA- Supports various tax forms and deductions - Free federal tax filingFree Federal, $14.99 State- No extra charge for complex tax situations - Secure filing with the IRS TaxAct Self-Employed- Year-round business and quarterly tax support - Data import from other tax services$99.99- $100K Accuracy Guarantee - Xpert Assist - Access and print prior returns for 7 years Liberty Tax- Self-employment income and deductions - Rental or farming income$85.95- Audit protection and tax break checks E-file.com Premium Plus- Easy, fast online tax preparation$37.49 Federal, $22.49 State with coupon- Significant discount compared to other programs FreshBooks- Accounting, invoicing, time tracking - Automated tasksVaries- Online payment solutions - Faster payment processing Jackson Hewitt Online- Step-by-step instructions - Live chat support - Automatic error checking$25 flat fee- In-person filing options - Maximum Refund and Lifetime Accuracy Guarantees What is tax software? Tax software is an essential tool for individuals, especially small business owners and self-employed professionals, to manage their tax affairs efficiently. In general, the best tax software for small businesses is designed to make tax preparation easier and more efficient. Here’s an overview of what tax software is and what it offers for small businesses. Digital Tax Assistance: Tax software is a digital program that significantly simplifies the tax filing process. It’s designed to assist users in calculating, preparing, and submitting their tax returns accurately and efficiently. Maximizes Deductions: A key benefit of utilizing tax software is its capability to assist taxpayers in recognizing and claiming all eligible deductions and credits. This functionality guarantees that users won’t overlook any potential savings. Affordable Option: Utilizing tax software allows individuals and small businesses to steer clear of the elevated expenses tied to hiring a professional accountant or acquiring costly tax preparation tools. User-Friendly Interface: The majority of tax software programs feature a user-friendly interface, allowing individuals without a background in finance or tax law to easily navigate the complexities of tax preparation. Time-Saving Features: These programs often include features like the ability to import previous years’ tax information, auto-fill forms with financial data, and more, which can save a considerable amount of time. Accuracy and Compliance: Tax software is regularly updated to reflect the latest tax laws and regulations, ensuring compliance and reducing the risk of errors that can lead to audits or penalties. Audit Support: Many tax software programs offer audit support, providing guidance on what to do if you’re audited by the IRS. Electronic Filing: The ability to e-file tax returns directly through the software streamlines the submission process and often leads to faster processing of refunds. Tailored for Specific Needs: The best tax software for small businesses is specifically designed to address the unique tax situations and challenges faced by small business owners, including handling self-employment income, tracking business expenses, and more. Additional Resources: Many tax software options also provide additional resources such as access to tax professionals, educational content about tax laws and financial planning, and tools for tracking and organizing receipts and expenses throughout the year. In summary, tax software is a valuable resource for simplifying and optimizing the tax filing process, offering a range of tools and features tailored to the needs of individuals and small business owners. Why should you consider self-employed accounting software? Self-employed accounting software provides numerous benefits for business owners. Here are five reasons why you should use tax software: Streamlines tax filing: Self-employed accounting software automates the tax filing process, reducing errors and saving time so you can focus more on your fun self-employed jobs. Organizes income and expenses: The software categorizes income and expenses, helping you track cash flow and identify tax deductions. Provides real-time financial insights: Self-employed accounting software delivers real-time financial insights, allowing you to make well-informed decisions. Provides data security: The software securely stores your financial data, protecting you from potential data breaches or losses. Cost-effective and user-friendly: The majority of accounting software for self-employed individuals is both affordable and easy to use, ensuring accessibility for businesses of any size. How to Choose the Best Tax Software for the Self-Employed Choosing the best tax software for self-employed individuals can be overwhelming. To make it easier, here are four factors to consider when making your decision: Available Tax Forms Not all tax software programs support every tax form, so it’s important to check if the program you’re considering supports the forms you need. For instance, Schedule C for sole proprietors, 1099-MISC for miscellaneous income, or Schedule SE for self-employment tax are critical for many self-employed individuals. Ensure the software you choose can handle these specific forms and any others relevant to your business. Cost Cost is an essential factor when selecting tax software for self-employed individuals. Some programs offer free versions with limited features, while others charge a premium for their services. Remember, though, that the cheapest option may not always meet your complex tax needs. Weigh the features offered against the price to determine which software provides the best value for your specific tax situation. User-Friendliness Look for a tax software program that is intuitive and user-friendly. The software should offer clear guidance and instructions throughout the tax filing process. A program that features a straightforward interface and step-by-step walkthroughs can make the complex task of filing self-employed taxes more manageable, especially if you’re not accustomed to the intricacies of tax laws and regulations. Customer Support If you’re new to tax filing or require assistance, look for a program that provides adequate customer support. Some programs offer phone support, chat support, or email support, so choose one that fits your needs. Additionally, consider whether the software provides access to tax professionals or CPAs who can offer expert advice and answer specific questions related to your self-employed income and deductions. This can be invaluable in ensuring you’re accurately reporting your income and maximizing your deductions. https://youtube.com/watch?v=TOpklhcGJ1o%3Fsi%3DTzEcjcEiCUufJ77n FAQ Can a self-employed person file their own taxes? Yes, self-employed individuals can file their own taxes using tax software or paper forms. However, it’s important to have a good understanding of tax laws and regulations to ensure compliance and minimize errors. Can a self-employed person file taxes for free? Yes, self-employed individuals can file their taxes for free using specific tax software programs such as FreeTaxUSA or by taking advantage of the free filing options provided by the IRS. The eligibility criteria differ depending on the program. Is it better to use a tax preparer or tax software if you’re self-employed? The choice between using a tax preparer or tax software depends on your individual preferences, budget, and specific tax circumstances. Typically, tax software is more cost-effective and easier to use, whereas a tax preparer offers tailored guidance and expert advice. What is the best accounting software for self-employed taxpayers? The best accounting software for self-employed taxpayers depends on your specific needs and budget. Popular options include QuickBooks Self-Employed, FreshBooks, and TaxSlayer Self-Employed. Which tax software is best for calculating self-employed business expenses? Many tax software programs offer features for calculating and deducting self-employed business expenses. Some popular options include TurboTax Self-Employed, H&R Block Self-Employed, and TaxAct Self-Employed. Image: Depositphotos This article, "The Best Tax Software for Self Employed People" was first published on Small Business Trends View the full article

Union leaders have described President Donald Trump’s nominee to lead the Department of Labor as a friend of organized labor. But as her confirmation hearing begins Wednesday, advocates for workers’ rights question whether Lori Chavez-DeRemer will be able to uphold that reputation in an administration that has fired thousands of federal employees. Chavez-DeRemer, a former Republican member of Congress from Oregon and former mayor of a small city on the edge of liberal-leaning Portland, is scheduled to appear before the Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor & Pensions, the first stop in her confirmation process. During her one term as a congresswoman, Chavez-DeRemer’s voting record earned her strong union support. Some political observers surmised that Trump picked her as his labor secretary as a way to appeal to voters who are members of or affiliated with labor organizations. She is the daughter of a Teamster member. Before she lost her House reelection bid in November, Chavez-DeRemer backed the PRO Act, legislation that would allow more workers to conduct union organizing campaigns and penalize companies that violate workers’ rights. The bill, one of former President Joe Biden’s priorities, passed the House in 2021 but didn’t gain traction in the Senate. If confirmed as secretary, Chavez-DeRemer would be in charge of the Department of Labor’s nearly 16,000 full-time employees and a proposed budget of $13.9 billion in fiscal year 2025. She would set priorities that impact workers’ wages, ability to unionize, and health and safety, as well as employers’ rights to fire employees. But it’s unclear how much power Chavez-DeRemer will be able to wield as Trump’s Cabinet moves to slash U.S. government spending and the size of the federal workforce. During his first month in office, the president froze trillions of dollars in federal funding and offered buyouts to most federal workers. His administration last week started laying off nearly all probationary employees who had not yet gained civil service protection. Billionaire Elon Musk, who leads Trump’s Department of Government Efficiency, has called for getting rid of entire agencies. “The Department of Labor is the agency where people in building are supposed to wake up every day thinking about how they can improve the lives of working people,” said Adam Shah, director of national policy at Jobs with Justice, a nonprofit organization that promotes workers’ rights. “It’s quite possible that no matter what the secretary of labor stands for, the billionaire embedded in the Trump administration, who is so keen on destroying the institutions, will be interested in gutting the Department of Labor.” In January, Trump fired two of three Democratic commissioners serving on the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, a federal agency that enforces civil rights in the workplace. He also fired the acting chair of the National Labor Relations Board, Gwynne Wilcox, the first Black woman to serve as an NLRB member, as well as General Counsel Jennifer Abruzzo. Wilcox sued the Trump administration, arguing that federal law protects her from being arbitrarily dismissed. Republicans have made inroads with working-class voters. Despite decades of labor unions siding with Democrats, and Trump’s apparent support for firing striking workers, his populist appeal gained him votes from rank-and-file union members. Many major unions, including the AFL-CIO and the United Auto Workers, endorsed Democrat Kamala Harris in the presidential race. The International Brotherhood of Teamsters declined to endorse a candidate, and Teamsters leader Sean O’Brien spoke at the Republican National Convention. The Teamsters have endorsed Chavez-DeRemer’s nomination. Some observers expect Chavez-DeRemer to receive more votes from Senate Democrats than some of Trump’s other Cabinet selections did. But the same positions that won her support from unions may make her a harder sell with business groups; the American Trucking Associations and the International Franchise Association said they hoped she would disavow her past support for the Pro Act by working to get it overturned. Emily Twarog, an associate professor in the school of labor and employment relations at the University of Illinois, said a question mark hangs over the labor secretary-designate even if she gets the Senate committee’s approval. With the ongoing efforts by the current administration to limit or eliminate certain government functions, “how much will she actually be able to do to help workers in the Department of Labor if there’s limited funding and restrictions put on the work that can be done?” Twarog said. —Cathy Bussewitz, Associated Press View the full article

What do prison and business have in common? At first glance, nothing. One is a place where hope and trust are scarce, and every decision you make is a matter of survival. The other is a world built on innovation and collaboration, full of opportunities. But when you strip them both down to their core, you’ll find the same thing: leadership. And not the kind of leadership you read about in glossy books. I’m talking about real-life, earned leadership. My name is Andre Norman, and I was once sentenced to more than 100 years in prison. That kind of time breaks most men. But I worked day in and day out to earn my freedom and, after 14 years, I reentered the world as a completely different man. While I was behind bars, before I realized my life didn’t have to end in prison, I rose through the ranks of the gang system. As a prison boss, I managed gang activities from within the maximum-security walls, one of the toughest environments on the planet. But I soon realized that, even though I had a sense of leadership, I was the King of Nowhere. During two years of solitary confinement, I made a decision that changed everything. I set my sights on Harvard University. It was a big goal for someone in my position, but I knew if I wanted it badly enough, I could make it happen. From that moment, I worked backward, using the same skills that had helped me survive in prison: reading people, networking, communicating. And in 2015, my dream became a reality: I earned a fellowship at Harvard Law School. In prison, leadership wasn’t a title—it was survival. You had to know how to read people. If you make the wrong call, it could cost you your life. I didn’t have the luxury of guessing. I had to know. Is this person going to kill me today, or are they someone I can work with? Behind bars, you learn quickly that loyalty isn’t given, it’s earned. And trust? Trust is the most valuable currency of all. When I got out and started working with CEOs and leaders, I realized that the business world is not so different from the world I left behind—besides the fact that nobody is coming to the table with a knife. Still, the principles of leadership don’t change. In prison, nobody cares about your title. They don’t follow you because you say you’re in charge. They follow you because you’ve proven you can lead. It’s the same in business. Your people aren’t going to trust you just because of your org chart. They’ll trust you because you’ve shown them that you’re worth trusting. If I’ve learned one thing, it’s that leadership is universal. Whether you’re behind bars or behind a desk, the same rules apply. Here are a few of the rules I’ve picked up along the way: Comfort is the enemy of success Comfort is a trap. In prison, getting comfortable meant letting your guard down. And letting your guard down could mean losing everything. The same applies to leadership. When you and your team settle into a rhythm that feels “safe,” you stop growing. The best leaders embrace discomfort because it’s a sign of growth and progress. Make better people, not just better businesses Prison taught me that the strength of your crew determines the strength of your leadership. If you’re only focused on hitting numbers or meeting deadlines, you’re missing the bigger picture. In business, just like in life, better relationships build better outcomes. As a leader, your job isn’t just to make sure the work gets done, it’s to help your team to grow into the best versions of themselves. When you invest in your people, the results take care of themselves. Accountability isn’t punishment Holding people accountable doesn’t make you the bad guy. Accountability is love. It means you care enough to challenge your team to be better, just like you challenge yourself to be a better leader. In prison, accountability was life or death. In business, it’s the difference between mediocrity and greatness. When you hold people accountable, you’re not punishing them—you’re showing them you believe in their potential. Communication is everything In prison, a single misstep in communication could lead to chaos. The same goes for business. Effective communication isn’t just about what you say but how you say it. Even more importantly, it’s about how you listen. Great leaders read between the lines and notice what’s been left unsaid. Their goal isn’t to be the loudest voice in the room, but to create space for people to speak up. Communication is the glue that holds your team together. Golden handcuffs are still handcuffs Handcuffs trap leaders, too. The question is: Are you in your position because you’re passionate about the work, or because of the allure of money, status, and power? Leadership can feel like a cage, even when it’s lined with perks. If you feel constrained, it’s time for a change. You can walk away. Or you can simply break free from monotony by seeking out fresh challenges that inspire and stretch you. Leadership isn’t a position—it’s a practice. It’s something you work at each and every day. Leadership is earned through action and proven in the moments when you step up, even when it’s hard. So, you have a choice: to lead with purpose or to go through the motions. The leaders who make the biggest impact are the ones who never stop doing the work. What does your leadership look like? View the full article

SEO isn’t what it used to be. With AI-driven search results, increasing zero-click searches, and more competition for user attention, ranking on Google is tougher than ever. But search is still a major traffic driver – if you adapt. The key? Treat SEO as part of a broader, integrated marketing strategy. This article breaks down a simple framework to align SEO with your overall marketing funnel, ensuring you reach, engage, and convert your ideal customers effectively. The evolving SEO challenge: Why optimization alone isn’t enough Nowadays, it’s not enough to have a well-optimized and search engine-friendly website. The modern SERP is a busy and diverse space. Any coverage you crave has to compete with heavy ad coverage, AI Overviews, and a wide range of SERP features. Zero-click searches are also on the rise, with overall clicks declining while Google’s own properties gain more traffic. At the same time, an increasing number of platforms are competing for user attention. They’re designed to keep users engaged within their ecosystem rather than directing them elsewhere. Often, the user experience here is solid, but as search marketers trying to drive traffic, it does make marketing and search marketing more complex and competitive. That said, search remains the top source of traffic, and with Google leading the way in search, browsers, mobile, and video, marketers must rise to the challenge. So this raises the question: what is the best way to do SEO in 2025, and what does SEO look like in 2025 and beyond? Years ago, SEO was the main marketing tactic for many small businesses and could work on its own, with occasional support from PPC or remarketing. SEO is still important, but for most businesses, it works best as part of a broader marketing strategy. While developing a unique SEO strategy is essential, it should be integrated with the customer journey. This reduces reliance on a single tactic, and based on what we’ve learned so far, an integrated approach is more effective in today’s omnichannel environment. Below, we outline a process for mapping out a marketing strategy using a simple funnel, showing how SEO planning fits into each step. Customers and the continuum of behavior Any sensible marketing approach starts with considering the target audience. How will you niche down and segment ideal customers? The temptation is often to go broad, as that gives you more scope. However, going broad results in bland, boring messaging that speaks to nobody. By niching down and laser-targeting your ideal audience, you can craft highly engaging messaging around the problems they must overcome and their goals. This kind of targeted approach works. The marketing environment evolves so quickly. It can be tempting to think nothing stays the same. But while change is constant, one thing remains steady: your customer. People are still people. Most purchases will follow a predictable pattern of behavior. At its core, this process rarely changes, even while the environment keeps shifting and evolving. Search will give us some insight, but this does not always map fully to the customer journey. If you were buying a kitchen, would you start on Google? Or, would you start to follow kitchen accounts on Instagram? To some extent, that depends on the customer profile. As an example, I’d go to Google as I am a search guy. But my wife would start on Instagram (and she is the real decision-maker for this kind of purchase). To market effectively here, you must understand all the touch points and be present at each point along the journey, or you will miss opportunities to engage and educate your customers. The key to great SEO is to map that to an overall understanding of the customer segments and the various touchpoints to take them from click to customer. Funnel thinking The customer journey can often be represented as a funnel. While there are many takes on the continuum of behavior and the funnel, the classic funnel is always a variation of awareness, consideration, and decision. In the chaotic world of digital marketing, you can bring some order to the chaos by using robust, time-proven marketing methodologies and frameworks. Funnel frameworks like AIDA (attention, interest, desire, action) and AIEDA (which adds evaluation for online purchases) have long-shaped marketing strategies. Modern models like REP and RACE refine these concepts for the digital landscape. There’s no single “right” funnel. The best approach depends on your business. Start with a simple structure and add complexity only when needed. At my agency, we use REP – reach, engage, persuade – a streamlined funnel that integrates these elements. REP provides a framework for tailoring tactics, platforms, messaging, and content to each stage of the customer journey. Integrating SEO into a REP marketing funnel Much like RACE, which is actually PRACE due to its initial planning stage, REP also includes two additional steps that frame the core process. It goes something like this: Prep: Identify a customer segment and strategize. Reach: Identify all the ways to reach those users. Engage: Document all the ways to engage, educate, and engage those users. Persuade: Convince these people to do business with you. Repeat: Continue to develop the lifetime value of the customer. Businesses often offer a mix of products and services, so a funnel system can be applied at multiple levels – from the overall business to specific products, services, or customer segments. Remember, marketing planning is most effective as a group effort. Involving people from marketing, sales, operations, and customer service helps map the customer journey and identify all key touchpoints. Step 1: Prep Marketing to everyone is marketing to nobody. Identify a customer segment and be as specific as possible. Make sure to: Focus on a carefully defined niche – one that represents an ideal customer segment. Use the PVP (personal fulfillment, value to the customer, profitability for your business) framework to assess potential niches. Identify the key tasks your customer needs to complete. Determine their goals. Understand the pains or problems they need to overcome. Document these insights in a detailed customer persona. The more you can understand your customer, the better results you will have. Use the Value Proposition Canvas as a brainstorming tool to map out customer jobs, goals, pain points, etc. Step 2: Reach Next, identify where you can find your customer segment at every stage of their journey. This includes exploring channels like: Print / direct mail. Display advertising. Native ads. Organic search. Paid search. Video platforms. Social media. Online communities. AI (chatbots, ChatGPT, Gemini, etc.). Each search results page offers various types of content and opportunities, including links, images, videos, FAQs, and more. Content marketing with SEO will open the door, but it will aim to maximize exposure across the page. Consider using SCAMPER to identify opportunities across different SERP features. At different stages of the customer journey, your audience may be found across various touchpoints. For example, you might initially capture attention with social media or native ads, but search could become more critical as the user moves down the funnel. Document where your customer segments are found across each channel. This should be informed by the work you’ve done in Step 1. Note: Each of these high-level platforms will need to be broken down into specifics. Social media is not just Instagram and TikTok. It also includes sites like Reddit and other online communities (Facebook groups, Discord servers, etc). You can use Google here to help you identify where your people are hanging out and talking. Get the newsletter search marketers rely on. Business email address Sign me up! Processing... See terms. Step 3: Engage Once you know where your users are, think about how to engage them. Consider this across the marketing funnel, from awareness to engagement to persuasion. You need to get in front of your customers, grab their attention, and convince them that you’re the best option! It’s also helpful to think about what you’re offering and where you can share it. For example, if you’re creating content around a common customer concern, how can you maximize its exposure? Should you focus on search, social media, or online communities? Example I am 50 this year and want to buy a pinball table as a gift for myself. It is a significant and expensive purchase, so I want to get it right. There are a handful of retailers in the UK and three or so big pinball manufacturers. My research started with a Google search, leading me to various discussion groups (on Reddit), and then leading me to various retailers. I am now in the middle of that process, in the consideration stage, mainly engaging on social media and email. My initial search was: Best pinball tables. The results for this term include all manner of opportunities: Manufacturers. Pinball forums. Pinball groups on Reddit. Videos. SERP features. The one thing missing here was content from any UK pinball retailers. There is a huge opportunity here for the UK pinball retailers to throw some content out there: Blog posts. Videos. Be active on discussion boards like Reddit. As a pinball retailer, it would not be too difficult to map out the myriad jobs, goals, and problems of trying to buy a pinball table. They probably have those conversations daily with bewildered customers (just like me). This could then be used to drive traffic, social sign-ups, and email sign-ups and maximize visibility across search results. The same content could be promoted or repurposed on social media. Once you start to look at this from your user’s perspective, enlightened by the work you did with the value proposition, you will see that there are myriad opportunities in search and beyond. There is also a humanistic element to this. I’ve received some excellent advice and help from one of the UK retailers, and I will try to give them my business. The point is that your customers are people, and people buy from people. Document all of this in the template and move on. Step 4: Persuade The final step is to close the deal and get a sale. In the marketing and SEO fantasy world, a sale works like this: User searches. Clicks on your link. Browses website. Buys. Sure, for tiny purchases, like drain unblockers or other low-stakes and low-value items, this may be true (and most of those kinds of business go to Amazon as it is so convenient). For most businesses, though, a purchase will happen after several engagements with the company across multiple platforms. It can be tempting to think of SEO as a primarily upper- and mid-funnel tactic. However, lower-funnel content like case studies, testimonials, and reviews is also essential, and all of this can have a strong SEO component. I wrote an article about the power of case studies and testimonials for SEO nearly 10 years ago, but the advice is just as applicable today. As a customer, you may have concerns or objections before making a purchase. A case study can demonstrate how others have overcome these challenges, easing doubts and helping move the decision forward. This is where multi-platform marketing comes in. A well-crafted case study can be: Promoted through native ads. Optimized for organic reach with dynamic Google search ads. Amplified via display marketing, email, social media, and remarketing. The goal is to reach a specific customer segment at a key stage in their purchase journey and persuade them to take action. The steps to follow here should be to identify: Customer concerns. Relevant platforms. Tactics (i.e., remarketing). Sales conversion strategy. For example, visiting a case study that features a 24-hour 10% off pop-up can often be the final push a customer needs to make a purchase. Document the above in the template and move on. Step 5: Repeat For many businesses, real profits come from increasing customer lifetime value, which requires a solid strategy – often driven by marketing. In some cases, the initial sale may be at a loss, with profitability coming from repeat purchases. Returning to the pinball example, this could include spare parts, maintenance products, services, trades, and additional purchases. At this stage, it’s crucial to identify all possible ways to reach customers and upsell effectively. At a minimum, this will likely involve: Content marketing. Social media. SEO. Email marketing. Smart marketing maximizes exposure by repurposing content across multiple platforms, ensuring efficiency and reach. SEO in 2025: An integrated marketing approach wins Modern marketing is multichannel. Successful SEO is informed by credible brand exposure in multiple places. The best approach for SEO in 2025 and beyond is to carefully integrate SEO into your marketing plan. This approach will allow you to: Reach cold prospects. Engage them where they are present. Nurture them into customers. Build an engaged customer base that buys time and time again. Then, be sure to establish clear SEO goals and KPIs to track and measure your success and iterate across other customer segments. View the full article

If you’ve ever hunted for a house, you know that it can be a long, involved process. While a lot of that time is taken up just finding the right house, another big chunk of that time is taken up by the negotiation. Most people focus on the price of the home, which makes sense—it’s a huge purchase for most people, so getting the price right is crucial—but you can negotiate for a lot more than that. You may already know that you can (and should) ask for repairs or financial credits if the inspection reveals problems, but it never hurts to ask for concessions or contingencies that can make your new home more appealing, comfortable, and affordable in the long run. Here are six requests you should consider adding to your offer when you buy your next house. Professional cleaningMoving house is a dirty business—and so is living in a house. Even the cleanest people probably don’t deep clean their houses on a regular basis, and moving furniture and appliances after they’ve sat collecting dust and grime for years will reveal a lot of dirt. If you don’t want to inherit the accumulated filth of someone else’s life, you can ask that the sellers be required to have the house professionally cleaned (at their expense) before you move in. It will be one less thing you have to worry about. Free home warrantyWe all try our best to perform due diligence before buying a house. We walk through it, test out the water pressure and the wiring. We have a professional inspection done (usually). We check the permit history to see if there have been major problems. But it’s still very common for people to encounter major repairs after they move into a new home. That doesn’t mean the sellers are hiding something, of course; major aspects of a home can seem perfectly fine until the moment they fail. For a little peace of mind, you can request that the sellers pay for a home warranty plan for a year to insure you a little against unforeseen problems. Home warranties aren’t always great deals, but if you’re not paying for it, a warranty is a win-win. Extended contingenciesSomething you should probably always request when buying a house are contingencies against damage from insects and termites—even if they were noted in an inspection (or disclosed by the seller) and mitigated. This sort of damage can sometimes be more widespread than initially suspected, and can take a long time to manifest. Plus, bugs can make a return appearance even if the mitigation was thorough. If the home has disclosed infestations or you have any reason to suspect there’s a threat, ask the seller to purchase a termite bond or warranty or pest control contract for a period of time—six months to a year, for example—to insure yourself against hidden problems. A chunk of HOA feesIf you’re buying a house covered by a homeowners association (HOA), you can ask that the seller pay the first six months or year of fees. A lot of folks are a little cash poor after buying a house, so getting a short cushion on those fees can give you a little more breathing room as you rebuild your emergency fund and get a handle on the expenses involved in owning a house. Furniture, appliances, or other stuff you wantThe general rule of thumb when buying a house is that stuff that’s permanently attached to the property—like kitchen cabinets, storage sheds, landscaping, or towel racks—is included in the sale unless the seller makes a special arrangement to take it with them. The easiest way to envision this is to imagine picking up the house, turning it upside-down, and shaking it. Anything that doesn’t fall out is a “fixture” and thus included in the sale. That means other stuff you see, like appliances, custom furniture, or elements of decor are up for negotiation. If there’s a funky dining room table that’s perfect for the room it’s in, you can ask the seller to name a price to leave it behind. One thing to note is that negotiating for personal property (as opposed to real property) usually has to be separate from the house contract, because most lenders won’t allow personal property to be part of the sale of the home. Still, you can make it part of the overall negotiation and just work up a separate agreement to cover anything you want to keep. A test runFinally, are you absolutely certain you’re going to love the house? Will it be quiet enough for you? Will the layout work the way you think it will? If you have any doubts whatsoever, ask the seller to let you sleep over in the house a day or two before finalizing the sale, something that’s becoming increasingly common. Just one night actually sleeping in the property can give you a very clear picture of the noise levels and general comfort of the home, and spending more than a few minutes alone in the place can offer clarity about its overall appropriateness for your lifestyle and family. It’s key to keep in mind that while you can ask for just about anything when buying a house, the seller is under no obligation to agree to any of it. Still, it never hurts to ask—your worst case scenario is a “no.” View the full article

The first week of January, we reported on an interesting local update we named the January 2025 local search update. Well, this might be more of a diversity update, where Google removes the URL for the core organic results, when that URL is also present in the local pack results. View the full article

Sovereign debt yield curves at their steepest in more than two years as investors anticipate more supplyView the full article

If you try to access your Google Business Profile page right now, you likely won't be able to. It seems Google Business Profile edit section within Google Search is broken and serves a 500 error when you try to do anything.View the full article

Google Business Profiles support team is currently a bit delayed, with a backlog of support requests, video verification delays, and reinstatement request backlogs. View the full article

We know Google can show reviews from third-party sources in Google Business Profile listings. We've seen Google take reviews from Yelp, travel sites and other third-party websites. But these days, more often than not, you see reviews only from Google. But have you ever seen a review from Yandex on Google?View the full article

Learn how to effectively manage multiple WordPress websites. Create a scalable plan to maintain and secure your sites for long-term success. The post How To Manage Multiple Websites On WordPress appeared first on Search Engine Journal. View the full article