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If you’ve ever dealt with …• Insecurity, rejection, non-acceptance, low- self esteem, lack of self worth.• Things that your parents said or did.• If you never felt pretty enough, you’ve never felt good enough.• If you’ve felt the pain, shame, and misery of that brought about from a man whom you've given your all too.• If just felt stuck as though you were functioning in life but not going anywhere.• If you’ve ever ask yourself is their more to life than the everyday routine.• Feeling like your options were limited.• Feeling like your spouse’s success over shadows you.• Secretly dealing with issues, that are keeping you bound.Then Letters To My Sisters from the Heart is sure to soothe your soul as well as put you on the path to truly taking a look at yourself and reevaluating where you are and reaffirming you of the powers you possess.For More Information Go To:http://www.letterstomysistersfromtheheart.com
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About one year ago a good friend invited me to a popular networking site and told me it would be a great way to promote The Afro Party House. I was very excited and signed up right away. I set up my page and added photos of myself and of my products. The mistake I made was adding personal photos that were in fact sending out the wrong message. Immediately I started getting lots of friend invites from various men (none of which were interested in my products but wanted to tell me how beautiful I am and how sexy I am). I got sucked in to this new found popularity and spent hours upon hours “networking” with my new friends. Soon my page was full of comments and gifts from various men and I was hooked!!! I was popular and it felt good!!! Every once in a while men would approach me about my business and offered to help me. I got involved with a couple men only to find out that what they really wanted was to take advantage of what I have to offer. Thank God I was smart enough to guard my heart and my dreams and soon cut those men off.Still, I was hooked on this site and couldn’t go one day without feeding my addiction. I had so many invites that I did not have to send out any friend requests. Soon I had over 800 friends (most of which were men) and when I closed my account I had over 20,000 hits. I spent so much time on this site that I lost focus of my initial purpose for being on the site. I was no longer focusing on my business plan. I was getting behind on important aspects of building The Afro Party House and delaying responses to customers and other companies of interest. I will say that one good thing about the site I was on is that I did use it to “test my product ideas”. Everyone knew me on this site as the “Party Supply Queen” but still, my orders were not coming from this site. In fact, most of my orders were coming from my press releases which continue to drive people to The Afro Party House’s website. In addition, my press releases helped me build a nice sized email list.Fast forward one year. I finally saw the light and cancelled my account with this popular site. I weighed the benefits of being on that particular site and realized it was allowing people to have access to me that are not likeminded or genuine in their interest and support of what I do.Presently, cancelling my membership on that networking site led me to search for other networking sites that are specific to my interest. I searched “Black Networking Sites” on Google and found Black Moms Club, Black Business Women Online and knew my blessings were beginning to change direction. I found LaShanda Henry and remember my eyes filling with tears as I read through her site. Just thinking about it now makes tears fill my eyes. Everything LaShanda mentioned in her videos and online courses was exactly what I needed to hear.Namely:• Are you on the right networking site?• Find your target market (just because you sell a black product does not mean all black people will buy from you)• Bundle your packages (I was doing this but didn’t know it was a strategy)• Up sell (I was already up selling since I sell my products in bundles and always offer the deluxe packages because it includes the favor boxes which are very popular)• If it doesn’t make dollars it doesn’t make sense (a Richelle Shaw quote replays in my head daily)• Invest in yourself (skip McDonalds and invest in solid online courses that offer what you need)In closing, The Afro Party House is thriving. We have been able to grow and add new products in spite of changes in the economy. I no longer waste my time on networking sites that drain my time and emotions. I learned to set up my sites specifically for what my interests are, to network with likeminded people, to support my sistas to the best of my ability, and to focus on my business plan.God placed a vision of The Afro Party House in my heart back in 1998. I knew the road would not be easy but cannot give up because my heart won’t allow me to let go. I keep the faith and when there is doubt someone comes along that inspires me to keep going. Customers tell me they love our products so that keeps me going. It’s about building relationships and loving what you do.Michelle B of The Afro Party Housewww.theafropartyhouse.com/party_themes.htmlwww.theafropartyhouse.com
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Just as the Power of the Internet took the world by storm, so will the Power of Social Networking for Women!Social Networks allow women to build alliances, connect with women they normally would not have the opportunity to meet and share information about their services and products.Here are 3 ways to start building solid relationships with businesswomen online:1. Brand yourself as an expert. Stick with a particular niche or subject as you build your online reputation. This not only helps you with SEO, but it also helps people to trust in what you say, because they see you posting about the same subject or industry.2. Think Value. Always think about the value in the content you post to boards and blogs. How can the information you post be used right away? Whatever you post, let be of value to the reader.3. Develop Online Trust. Make sure that whatever you say you will provide or whatever resources you give are valid. There's nothing like clicking on a link or connecting with someone only to not have them respond. It breaks trust and believe me they'll comment about it on your wall, message board or blog.Let's Build a Trusting Online Relationship!Trina NewbyWomen About BizClick here for a FREE Basic Membership to Women About Biz!
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Homeownership in a Down Economy

Tips for becoming a homeowner in a down economy!Have you been turned upside down by this harsh economy. Do you have steady employment and would like to purchase a home? If so, Don’t worry, there is still hope. For buyers this is a fantastic market where anything goes in negotiations. This is the perfect time to seize the perfect home for less than its market value.With home inventories rising, there are lots of good deals to be found. We suggest starting the process by clearly defining the attributes you are looking for in a home – price, location, number of bedrooms, basement, etc. Planning ahead will go a long way in helping you communicate with your real estate agent so you spend more time looking at homes that matter. Foreclosed homes are seemingly the hottest deals on the market but some of them will require a little TLC. The first step to becoming a homeowner in a down economy is finding a good deal.The down economy is both devastating economically and emotionally for the individuals and families being forced from their homes, this crisis is also creating opportunities for buyers looking for a deal. With an eye toward the future, many who may have the means are wondering what would be involved in buying foreclosed properties now.Find a Professional!If you are an amateur in the home buying business, it will be wise to find a professional realtor. A professional will be able to help you locate the best deals and foreclosures in your area. Remember, this is a down economy and there is plenty of homes out there to be sold. Don’t rush and take your time. Working with a trusted professional who can get you the best deal will set your mind at ease.Get honest opinions!Don’t be afraid to speak with friends and family that you trust. If they own their homes and are knowledgeable about the Real Estate business, get their input on homeownership. Be sure to ask the tough and honest questions. It’s better to ask questions now then to be sorry you didn’t later.Do your research!If you have access to the computer, go online and see what the current market trends are. Find out what people are doing in spite of the down economy. There are tons of websites with various ideas, strategies and opinions that you can learn from. If you have the resources, do your research! It will give you insight as to whether or not buying in a down economy would be in your best interest.Make a sound final decision!After you have done all of the research and spoken with professionals, then you are prepared to make a decision regarding purchasing a home in a down economy. If you feel you are financially secure and are ready to make the commitment, then home ownership is just around the corner. Also, take your time and weight your options carefully. There are tons of good deals on there so you don’t have to jump the gun!To get professional advice and more information on purchasing a home call Vision Investment Corporation at 877-799-0820! Feel Free to visit the website at www.visioninvestmentcorp.com.Annetta PowellQueen of Real Estate

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4 Ways to Generate Buzz for Your Brand

4 Ways to Generate Buzz for Your BrandBy Joanna L. KrotzLaunching a brand new business takes imagination, cleverness and determination. You need to create a connection with your customers that will make them loyal to you. In order to do that, you need to differentiate yourself from others out there like you. Make sure your marketing material is distinctive from other brands to seize mind and marketplace share. Check out these four cost-effective branding strategies.1. Get inside the customer's mind.Most new business owners research their target buyers. So you likely know something about your customer demographics, such as income and age. That's good, but it's hardly enough. You need a serious fix on what will propel people to buy, so you can gear your messages accordingly. Figure out what meets your customers’ needs, and you’re on the right track.2. Get endorsements that ring the right bells.Expert or third-party endorsements can mean a movie star, banker or a tech wizard. If you have invested in characterizing target customers, coming up with personalities who will fuel buzz should be a snap. The hard part may be getting access. You might need special marketing to reach them. Having a celebrity wear or try your products can boost your company’s image and sales revenue.3. Get the attention of hot prospects.Find industry seminars or annual shows that attract your top-of-the-line customers. Then spend what it takes to design a snazzy booth. If you want to take things one step further, sign up for media coaching and pay a speechwriter and design team to develop newsworthy presentations. Another idea is to hire a marketing firm to create a memorable way to demonstrate your product. No matter which option you choose, the goal is to make a standout impression at the high-profile show.4. Get public relations pros to open markets.There's a great range of small, local or industry press and media coverage that can boost business. But you could benefit from the expertise of a public relations agency to do the legwork and the pitching for media placement. Buzz and word-of-mouth marketing is a cheap and effective way to get out your message. Figure out what it will take to start customers talking about your brand. That way, every customer turns into a brand ambassador.To get customers to notice your infant brand quickly and affordably, you must stay focused. Don't chase after huge or unlikely prospects right away. Don't squander time and resources by broadcasting mixed messages. Keep it simple. Make sure your marketing material has a recognizable identity, with a consistent logo, palette and tag lines.---Source: Joanna L. Krotz (www.microsoft.com)
Visit National Business Women Enterprise Network
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This weeks healthy meals

Beef Tenderloin with Chimichurri sauceINGREDIENTSSpice Rub2 tablespoons dark brown sugar1 tablespoon sweet smoked paprika*1 tablespoon coarse kosher salt1 1/2 teaspoons chipotle chile powder or ancho chile powder1 teaspoon ground black pepperChimichurri sauce3/4 cup olive oil3 tablespoons Sherry wine vinegar or red wine vinegar3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice3 garlic cloves, peeled2 medium shallots, peeled, quartered1 teaspoon fine sea salt1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper1/2 teaspoon dried crushed red pepper3 cups (packed) stemmed fresh parsley2 cups (packed) stemmed fresh cilantro1 cup (packed) stemmed fresh mintBeef tenderloin1 3 1/2-pound beef tenderloin2 tablespoons olive oilFor spice rub:Combine all ingredients in small bowl.Do ahead: Can be made 2 days ahead. Store airtight at room temperature.For chimichurri sauce:Combine first 8 ingredients in blender; blend until almost smooth. Add 1/4 of parsley, 1/4 of cilantro, and 1/4 of mint; blend until incorporated. Add remaining herbs in 3 more additions, pureeing until almost smooth after each addition.Do ahead: Can be made 3 hours ahead. Cover; chill.For beef tenderloin:Let beef stand at room temperature 1 hour.Prepare barbecue (high heat). Pat beef dry with paper towels; brush with oil. Sprinkle all over with spice rub, using all of mixture (coating will be thick). Place beef on grill; sear 2 minutes on each side. Reduce heat to medium-high. Grill uncovered until instant-read thermometer inserted into thickest part of beef registers 130°F for medium-rare, moving beef to cooler part of grill as needed to prevent burning, and turning occasionally, about 40 minutes. Transfer to platter; cover loosely with foil and let rest 15 minutes. Thinly slice beef crosswise. Serve with chimichurri sauce.
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(BlackDoctor.org) -- Celebrated on the third Sunday in June in 52 countries and other days elsewhere, Father’s Day grew from one woman’s tribute to her father to the grand observance that it is today. But no matter the day or the location, the premise is the same – to honor and commemorate the men who have had our backs and given of themselves tirelessly. What better way to repay dads unwavering love and protection than to offer them the gift of good health. These 10 important tips will ensure that Dad remains healthy and fit for life. It’s the gift that keeps on giving.To read the full article, follow this link: http://www.blackdoctor.org/articles.aspx?counter=35261Read more on healthy ways to stay fit at: www.blackdoctor.org
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Adventures in Marketing

nbbpurple.bmpWell, ladies, I've got a real life marketing story for you. First, to clarify how I usually roll with the family: when we go out, whether it be grocery shopping or mall walking, we go out as a brood, meaning it's DH and my three little kidlets. Usually I'm so busy herding, nudging, refereeing and trying to shop that I don't take much notice of people around me, nor do I have the mind to chat/talk about my business. However, my wonderful husband, who has supported me wholeheartedly throughout my endeavor, talked briefly with the cashier at a shoe store, who noticed the slight eczema on my daughter's legs. She mentioned that her daughter also had eczema and of course my husband started talking to her about my products. The cashier and I talk briefly, I give her a card and it's over. I go home thinking, gee, I wish I had been able to give her a sample...A week later, I'm perusing the shoe website at home to purchase sandals for my two boys, because they didn't have the style I liked at the store. So guess what? You can have the shoes shipped free to the store...and I had them shipped to the store where the woman worked. (Yes, I'm a stalker.) We go out to the store, I (by myself) go in to pick up the shoes, and this time, I've got a sample. Hand over the sample, a few new cards, some chit chat and hopefully, I've got a new client.Please let this be encouragement to those of you who may travel everywhere with your children. (I love my little'uns, and take 'em everywhere with me and DH.) Keep cards and samples (if that's your biz) on you because you never know who you might see......but you all ready knew that, right? :)(And my daughter is my best advertisement when I tell people her skin used to be rough to the touch and scarred with scratching. Her legs aren't perfect, and there is slight scarring, but let me tell you, they look and feel so much better than they used to.)
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6 Benefits of Teleseminars and Webinars

If you’re on Twitter or any other social media site for any length of time, you’ll certainly run upon advertisements for teleseminars and webinars on many different topics. Ever wonder why many business owners and entrepreneurs work as speakers for these outlets? Well, it’s because they know that these methods can be used to advance their business in more ways than one. As a business owner or entrepreneur, you should truly consider using teleseminars and webinars to your advantage.1. Present your business, product or brandOne obvious benefit of participating as a speaker in teleseminars and webinars is that these outlets can be used to introduce a previously unknown company, product or brand. New business owners, especially online business owners may find it difficult to introduce themselves to their target audience because of their lack of history or background in their field.Teleseminars and webinars allow the new business owner to represent his or her business and give it a personality. As many business owners understand, customers are buying your product or service because they trust you. By participating in teleseminars/webinars you can give your business the personal boost it needs to reach your target market2. Brand yourself as an expert in your fieldAs a featured speaker on a teleseminar or webinar, you are building your reputation as an authority in your field. This is important for new business owners who are new to their industry and are attempting to create a buzz about themselves or their product.A successful teleseminar/webinar will assist you in building a solid following in your target market. In addition, further successes will help you to expand and reach a wider segment of potential clients and customers.3. Promote products and/ or servicesThese seminars may also be used a vehicle to promote a product or service. While not as “pushy” as an infomercial, they can serve the same purpose, as many speakers will have books, e-books, podcasts, videos and other products that they market to their target market via these outlets.The key is to reference the product in the discussion with the audience. The audience is then motivated to purchase the product to be used as a guide or instructional material to achieve the end results.4. Increase salesA well-delivered teleseminar or webinar can assist in encouraging sales of the product or services. Because you are working with potential customers in real time, it increases their knowledge of the product or services and thus may be more motivated to purchase.5. Allows you to personally communicate with clientsBecause you are selling yourself as a person as well as your product or service a good teleseminar or webinar is a way to communicate with your potential clients on a more personal level. They can hear your voice, get a sense of your personality and by doing so decide whether they like you or admire you enough to purchase your product or service. If there is an open discussion period included in the teleseminar, then customers are able to get their questions answered on the spot, without waiting for a phone call or email.6. Low overheadIn order to truly succeed in business, money has to be spent. For many business owners, however, money is tight and often sunk back into the business for necessary expenses. A teleseminar or webinar can be a low cost way to provide a lecture over the phone or via the Internet. Furthermore, if done well, they do help to raise a customer’s awareness of you, your brand and your products or services.
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Need help blogging?

As many of you know, I am the editor of the site http://womenpreneurs.info, a resource site for women entrepreneurs, and of course anyone else who cares to stop by!Right now, for a limited time, I'm offering a Blogging ECourse F.R.E.E. to new signups. Sign up for my mailing list and receive your first day of the eCourse via email within 24 hours! In addition check out the articles and resources there for you.To your continued success,CeeCee
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(read this) Get it Girls Only

Do you want to get it? Promotion on BBWO, a BETTER understanding of marketing online, the PROFIT that should come with having an online business and yet, for many it NEVER comes. I've put together something special for serious sistas in business. If you are serious about building a successful online business, go watch my video: Get it Girls Only. URL: http://www.sistasense.com/get-it-girls-only/ LaShanda p.s. Are you on Facebook? If you are, then let's stay connected. http://www.facebook.com/lashanda.henry
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Life rewards action

As I continue to focus on creating a business and learn as much as I can, not only do I get ideas and information, but inspiration shows up out of the blue.I need more than 24 hours. It's late and I still need to prepare lunch, iron a shirt, clean the kitchen and meditate. I need to get up early to get my workout in before work - 10 lbs need to go by July 25th.Oh, but the joy of being on purpose!
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What are you saying about your business?

I was talking to a friend recently and we discussed confessing the Word of God over every situation in our lives-including our businesses. It seemed we both had gotten slack. I was quick to repent and go back to what I know- confess His Word if I want to see victory. Romans 4:17 says to call those things that be not as though they are. I had to tape the Word up on my bathroom wall and mirror to remind myself that my confession is my profession. Speak life into your business and watch it grow.
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Today Sylvia McClain is being interviewed by author Tinisha Nicole Johnson. Read what Sylvia has to say.CLICK HERE to read the entire interview.Tinisha Nicole Johnson is the author of the upcoming book Lessons Learned: Loving Yourself As A Black Woman. The book emphasizes ten life lessons that addresses a Black woman’s most intimate, personal, and professional life.Tinisha will be interviewing professional women from various backgrounds up to the release date of her book, discussing who they are and the challenges they face, and any advice they have to offer.Learn more about this book and the author at her website: www.TinishaNicoleJohnson.comIf you would like to be interviewed, please contact Tinisha through her website.
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Security Consulting Services

LaCroix Security Consulting, LLC is offering affordable security consulting services.Our company is your number one source for professional service. We surpass the competition, in not only price, but value as well. We are guaranteed to give you the best security solutions you will need.We offer expertise in the following areas:Physical SecurityProgram ManagementProtection Program OperationsPersonnel SecurityInformation SecurityFor more information please send an email to lacroixsecurity@live.com and someone will respond to you within 24 hrs.
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Free Seminar about Diabetes Prevention

Last night's show with Agnes Loughlin was great! She spoke about many different elements associated with Diabetes that you may not have thought about. She also gave her 10 Steps to Diabetes Prevention, which can actually apply to all of us that are trying to live a healthy lifestyle.Can you answer these questions?-Which is better for you, juice, Diet soda or regular soda?-What is the number one choice for liquids that our diets just can do without?-Which is better soybean oil, peanut oil, coconut oil or butter?-What is "dead bread"?-Which supplement is the best foryour daily dietary needs?If you are looking for the answers to these questions and many more, you should definitely register for the seminar series at www.diabetesinfo4you.com. Last night was the first of 8 in the series and even if you didn't attend the live call, once you register, you will have access to all the recorded calls.So what are you waiting for? Register now, www.diabetesinfo4you.com.Please join the Diabetes: Prevention, Control and Next Steps for Living Group on FaceBook.
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I am a passionate believer in the power of social networking for small business owners. I have spoken many times at conferences and teleseminars about small business owners can use Twitter to create relationships and expand their sphere of influence.One of the things I notice in my travels is that there is a misplaced reliance on Twitter as a marketing tool. If I had a dime for every time a business owner told me that he or she had not blogged in months because they had been spending all of their social time on Twitter, I think I'd be rich.Twitter Is Not A PanaceaAs good as Twitter is, it is not a panacea. Twitter will not swoop into your business and fix problems that are already there. For example, if you do not already have a blog, Twitter will be of little use to you. If you do not have or do not want to have genuine relationships with other small business owners, Twitter will be no use to you. And if your website is a messy collection of blurry photos and spelling and grammatical errors, Twitter will not only be useless to you, but it could also actually hurt your business.Neither Twitter nor any other social media tool owned by a third party should form the platform for your marketing outreach. The core of your marketing strategy should be supported by content that you own and control: your e-commerce site, business card, email newsletter, brochures, blog, podcasts, etc.Twitter Cannot Save A Lousy Marketing PlanTwitter should supplement a marketing machine that already works reasonably well on its own.While Twitter is no substitute for an innovative, attention grabbing, system that markets a fabulous product, it does a heckuva job at supplementing a system that is already getting results. Twitter is like cake frosting. It's useless unless there's a cake to frost. But put it on top of a rich and scrumptious slice of cake and it's hmm hmm good for you and your customers.Question: Are you perplexed by Twitter and how it can possibly work for your business? If so, check for holes in your existing marketing armor and plug them up. Chances are that, when you do, Twitter will take on a whole new meaning for your business. What do you think? I'd love to hear your comments, experiences and even questions on this topic in the comments section below.
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THE NATIONAL GREAT BLACKS IN WAX presents 1st ANNUAL OUTDOOR COMMUNITY FUN DAY. Date: Saturday, June 27th, 2009 Time: 10:00am - 5:00pmRaindate: Saturday, July 11th, 2009.Admission: FREEWhere: The National Great Blacks in Wax Museum (outdoors).. 1601 East North Avenue, Baltimore, MD 21213VENDORS WANTED...!!! Please visit: www.GreatBlacksinWax.orgMuseum Admission Not Required .!!
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Starting a small business is a great way to supplement your income. Whether you are operating your business from home or a storefront, practically every expense related to business is a write-off. Generally speaking, the government looks kindly on small business owners. They applaud the entrepreneurial spirit upon which this country is built, and they reward it with tax deductions to lower the owner's taxable income and help the business to succeed. Unfortunately, many owners end up paying more taxes than they should or they fail to receive their maximum refund because they're not aware of ordinary deductions that are available. Though this is by no means an exhaustive list, here are some of the most common:1. Start-up costs. One of the biggest obstacles for a new business is getting over the hurdle of start-up costs. Although it can take a large slice out of the overall pie, you can get back a portion of those expenses at tax time. Small businesses can deduct as much as $5,000 of starting costs in their first year of business.2. Vehicle use. The government allows you to deduct certain expenses for business vehicles, including mileage. Keep good records for this deduction (or any other, for that matter) in case you're challenged on any point by the IRS. If the vehicle is used for business and personal activities, you can deduct only the percentage amount of the business use of the vehicle.3. Equipment deductions. All businesses require equipment of some kind. The amount can be deducted all at once in the first year of acquisition (up to a limit of $125,000, as of this writing), or amortized over a number of years.4. Entertainment deductions. Who wouldn't want to have a fancy dinner on the government? Business meetings over dinner or attending business conferences in sunny Florida can be deducted as business expenses, if they meet the necessary requirements.5. Travel expenses. Traveling for business is a tax-deductible expense. Keep your receipts for airline tickets, hotel stays, and meals. Any service that was necessary during the course of the business trip can generally be deducted. However, expenses for family members that you took along for the ride are not deductible.6. Advertising costs. Costs for advertising your business are tax-deductible. These may include print, billboard, Internet, radio and television, or other ad forms.7. Legal fees. Businesses often consult lawyers from about business matters or to review contracts. The fees charged are deductible.8. Retirement plan contributions.9. Home office deductions - expenses like a % of your rent, utilities, insurance and many more.10. Educational expenses. The costs of classes taken to further your knowledge for your present business can also be deducted.Tax credits, which are dollar-for-dollar reductions of the taxes you would otherwise owe, can also be used to save money. Again, there are a variety of taxes, including those related to hiring certain employes; owning and fixing up certain realty; and being "green".Businesses do have an advantage when it comes to taxes. If you're a business owner, take advantage of all the deductions available to you. Be sure to consult a qualified tax professional for further information on these and other tax deductions.
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