Get All Access for $5/mo

Be Careful When Giving Yourself Bonuses Whoa, there, big spender: Make sure your big bonus is kosher with the IRS.

When the profits are flowing in, it's often tempting to giveyourself a nice, big bonus at the end of the quarter. But you'dbetter keep your greed at bay if you're organized as a regularcorporation: The IRS is going after those business owners who paythemselves too much.

To decide whether compensation is reasonable, the IRS looks at anumber of factors. These include the nature and size of thebusiness, the nature and scope of the work the owner does at thecompany, the amount of time required for the services, and anyspecial qualifications the owner has. Industry surveys andthird-party studies help determine what is considered reasonablecompensation for companies in the industry.

Want to be an Entrepreneur Leadership Network contributor? Apply now to join.

Editor's Pick

Franchise

The Top 10 Coffee Franchises in 2024

From a classic cup of joe to a creamy latte, grab your favorite mug and get ready to brew up success with the best coffee franchises.

Starting a Business

He Started a Business That Surpassed $100 Million in Under 3 Years: 'Consistent Revenue Right Out of the Gate'

Ryan Close, founder and CEO of Bartesian, had run a few small businesses on the side — but none of them excited him as much as the idea for a home cocktail machine.

Business Ideas

63 Small Business Ideas to Start in 2024

We put together a list of the best, most profitable small business ideas for entrepreneurs to pursue in 2024.

Business News

'Jaw-Dropping Performance in 2024,' Says a Senior Analyst as Nvidia Reports Earnings

Nvidia reported its highly-anticipated third-quarter earnings on Wednesday.

Marketing

How Small Businesses Can Leverage Dark Social to Drive Word-of-Mouth Marketing

Dark social accounts for 70% of social media shares and is crucial for small businesses. Here's how you can tap into this hidden marketing opportunity.