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Friday, May 24th, 2013

The tax effects of buying or selling a business might be dramatic enough to sway your decision one way or the other. This is certainly something to consider, whether you are buying or selling a small business that operates out of a home or a large business that involves big money.

Here are a few things to consider when trying to determine the tax effects of buying or selling a business.

Business entity

For those that run an LLC or sole proprietorship, the process is relatively simple — at least, in terms of selling the business. The amount of money you make on your business will be taxed at your personal rate. If this is an LLC with multiple partners, the percentage of each partner’s profit will be taxed at their personal level. This picture can get a little murky when it comes to, say, an S-Corp or C-Corp.

Tax-Free Maneuver

Normally, buying and selling a business is a taxable transaction because money exchanges hands. However, if the two sides are merely trading stock, both sides could avoid the traditional tax effects of buying or selling a business. This is an arrangement you might see when a big corporation buys out a small business. The smaller business could exchange their stock for a stake in the corporation.

You can also structure a taxable asset or stock transaction deal, which is fairly common.

Taxes Involved With Buying A Business

If you purchase a business, you actually do not owe the federal government anything in taxes on the exchange. However, you will have some tax concerns.

When you purchase the company, you will also inherit all of that company’s tax liabilities. This includes any outstanding bills or pending tax audits. So, this does not allow you to skirt tax issues all together.

Get Accounting Advice

Discussing all of the tax effects of buying or selling a business would take a very, very long time. The truth is, taxes are a complicated process, which is why it is essential to seek the right help. Local accountants can help you muddle through the complex process of taxes. Use TalkLocal to help you find the proper help. We offer a free service that shows results — and fast.

Posted in Accountants, talklocal | No Comments »

How To Replace the Power Supply On A PC Or Mac

Friday, May 24th, 2013

There is nothing worse than pressing your computer’s “On” button and getting no response. Before you go into complete panic mode over files that may have been lost, learn how to replace the power supply on a PC or Mac.

How To Replace the Power Supply On A PC Or Mac

1. Try plugging your computer into other electrical outlets to make sure you are using a working outlet. If you check multiple outlets without any success then you probably need to replace your computer’s power supply.

2. Turn off your computer. Make sure your computer is turned completely off and is unplugged before you begin taking it apart.

3. Remove the case of the computer by removing the screws with a simple Phillips screwdriver. Locate the power supply inside the case and identify the necessary wattage. The power supply is the large metal box mounted in your computer where you AC power cord plugs into. The wattage for your new power source should either equal or exceed the original power source wattage.

4. Purchase a new power supply. Bring your computer’s power supply information to a local computer or electronics store. If you have a Mac it is probably easiest to visit your local Apple store. Prices vary depending on your computer’s age and brand.

5. Remove your old power supply and install your new one. For easier access, turn your computer onto its side. Remove the power supply by unscrewing the screws from the mounting holes. Set the power supply to the side without detaching any cables or connectors.

6. Next, slide your new power supply into the case so that the mounting holes line up. Secure your new power supply in place by using the removed screws. One by one, carefully remove each connector from the old power supply and attach it to the same location on the new power supply. Once everything is secured you can screw the cover back onto the case.

7. Test out your new power supply. When everything is back in place you can try plugging your AC power cord into a nearby outlet. Turn on your computer and you should be ready to go! Remember to back up any valuable files so that you don’t lose them if another emergency pops up.

Still Need Help?

If you still need help with your computer’s power supply, or you want a professional to install a new one for you, just use TalkLocal. We’ll connect you with up to three, high-quality computer repair technicians in your area. Seva Call will find the help you need in just minutes, for free!

Posted in Computer Repair | No Comments »

Best Roof Shingles

Friday, May 24th, 2013

Roof shingles protect your home from the elements. However, curled, cracked, or missing shingles can lead to serious damage to your home if you do not replace them immediately. The best roof shingles for your home will depend on the aesthetics you desire and where you live.

Asphalt Shingles

Asphalt shingles are the most common type of roof shingles. These shingles are very budget-friendly and come in various colors and sizes. They fair well in hot and cold weather. Although they have a shorter lifespan than other shingles, proper installation and maintenance can help them last a long time.

Metal Shingles

Metal shingles are ideal for warmer, drier climates. Unlike asphalt shingles, metal shingles do not provide grip, so snow will slide off onto the head of an unsuspecting passerby or onto your freshly shoveled driveway. Metal shingles tend to be more durable than asphalt, and should ideally last as long as 20 years. However, metal shingles will also be prone to rust, which could lead to leaks.

Cedar Shingles and Ceramic Shingles

Cedar and ceramic shingles are typically more expensive than asphalt, but can also be more aesthetically pleasing. Cedar shingles can rot if not properly maintained, but otherwise have a long lifespan. Ceramic shingles also have a long lifespan, but both of these types of shingles are more common in warmer climates.

Find A Professional Roofer

Not only do you need the best roof shingles, but you also need a professional roofing contractor to properly install the shingles. Make sure the contractor you hire is certified and uses the best materials to protect your home. Improper installation can turn the best roof shingles into poor protection for you home.

If you are looking for a roofing contractor to install the best roof shingles on your home, use TalkLocal. We can connect you in seconds with quality roofers in your area, for free!

Posted in Roofers | No Comments »

Average Time To Complete A Divorce

Thursday, May 23rd, 2013

It is tough — or nearly impossible — to calculate an average time to complete a divorce. This is mainly because there is no average divorce — everyone’s situation is different. Some divorce amicably so the process is met with little resistance, while other divorces are rife with conflict and legal motions.

Here is what to expect, along with an average time to complete a divorce, within certain scenarios.

Amicable Divorce

These divorces clip along at a brisk pace. Both spouses are generally agreeable with each other, and various aspects of the divorce (i.e. child custody, alimony, child support) are not contested. Therefore, spouses will not have to take the time to enter court and fight out their legal battles.

In these types of divorces, you can expect to only experience about one to six months of waiting time before the divorce is finalized and completed. This is calculated from the time that the divorce petition is filed in court and served on the opposite spouse. Needless to say, this is the quickest way to part ways with a former partner.

Contentious Divorces

Have you ever taken the time to read headlines of the tabloids and realize that some celebrities have been in the process of divorce for years? That’s because those divorces have been slowed up by constant legal jockeying over property division, child and spousal support, and child custody. Divorces can literally crawl on for years. While it is always important to make sure that you are getting a fair result in a divorce, you must pick your battles. The longer a divorce drags on, the more you will be paying in legal and court fees.

Divorce Mediation

Divorce mediation is when you sit down with your soon-to-be ex-spouse and a third party legal professional and hash out an agreement. Many are turning to this form of divorce because it is very quick (sometimes a matter of hours) and really cuts down on legal fees.

Seek Legal Counsel

Divorce is a complex process and a time where you do not want to make any major errors. Enlisting the help of family lawyers is paramount. They can better explain the average time to complete a divorce along with discussing legal strategy for your individual case. You can find a quality divorce lawyer quickly through TalkLocal. Simply explain what type of professional you’re looking for and we’ll locate them for you!

Posted in Lawyers - Family | No Comments »

Where Can I Recycle Glass?

Thursday, May 23rd, 2013

There are so many things that can be recycled. Although paper and plastic first come to mind, even furniture, metal, and batteries can be recycled, too. Out of everything, glass is the most recyclable material, as it is able to be recycled continuously, over and over again. You might find yourself wondering: Where can I recycle glass? I want to do my part to help the Earth, but I just don’t know how.

Where Can I Recycle Glass?

If you are asking this question, you first want to inquire with your city or county’s garbage removal professionals. Your local area may have a specific location or certain professionals to recycle your glass for you. If that is the case, giving them a quick call can get you the answers you need easily.

You also might check with local vendors. If there is an area business that produces a lot of glass, they might have a drop-off or even pick-up service for glass recycling available to you.

Most recycling drop off centers do have a special bin for containers, including glass. Some even have a special bin for glass alone. If you have a local center where you can drop off paper goods, plastic, etc., you should double check for glass.

When you recycle glass, there are a few very important things to keep in mind.

Never recycle broken glass: Unfortunately, broken glass can’t be recycled. Not only is it dangerous for you to handle broken glass, but it’s especially dangerous for those who empty recycling receptacles. They expect glass bottles to remain unbroken. If they reach in to a bin with broken glass, they can encounter serious injuries.

Clean your glass before recycling it: If it’s a bottle that once held a liquid or powder, make sure it is cleaned out and dried. Leftover products can be dangerous to workers and also attract bugs and messes.

Take off the lids: Oftentimes, the lids of your glass bottles need to be recycled separately, or even tossed out. Either way, you need to make sure you remove them from the bottles for the recycling process.

Get More Information On Local Glass Recycling

Garbage removal and recycling can be kind of confusing, but it’s pretty important. If you need more help with doing your part to keep our earth clean and happy, TalkLocal can connect you with the professionals in your area who can answer your questions.

Posted in Garbage Removal | No Comments »

Massage Technique Tips

Thursday, May 23rd, 2013

A massage can be a useful way to alleviate stress and tension, as well help heal injuries, and heighten your immune system. With the help of a trusted friend or spouse, you can have a massage at home! There are a number of different types of massages that you can give or receive. This article will help you with a variety of different massage technique tips.

Acupressure

Acupressure is a Chinese massage technique similar to acupuncture, but without the needles. Applying pressure to specific pressure points can get rid of blocks in your meridian system, which helps the immune system and makes you just feel better in general.

Balinese Massage Therapy

The Balinese massage is a traditional, ancient technique from Bali, an island in Indonesia. To perform the technique you must strongly knead and roll the skin over every muscle in the person’s body. Using scented oils to lubricate the massages skin is also an important part of the Balinese massage technique.

Deep Tissue Massage

A deep tissue massage is useful when you have particular aches and pains that need to be addressed. However, it can be intense and sometimes painful. It should not be used for infections, after surgery or chemotherapy, when you are pregnant, or if you have heart disease or osteoporosis. However, if you have strong or continuous pain somewhere in your body, or a specific trauma or injury, it can be very helpful. It is performed by applying very firm pressure and friction to muscles in the area of pain, using hands, knuckles, fingertips, elbows, and forearms. A deep tissue massage can help blood to circulate properly and heal tissue that is inflamed.

Swedish Massage

A Swedish massage is the most common type of massage, and what you may think of as a “regular” massage.” In order to perform a Swedish massage, you must apply pressure to the deepest bones and muscles on the person’s body. Both kneading motions and circular motions are used to do this. Additionally, soft tapping of finger tips and the side of your hand, as well as pressure from the thumbs can be used in order to create an enjoyable and effective Swedish massage.

Get A Professional Massage

If you do not have someone you feel comfortable with performing these techniques on you, you can contact a professional massage therapist to give you a massage. With the help of TalkLocal, you can be on the phone in minutes with up to three, high-quality massage therapists, who offer the massage techniques you’re looking for.

Posted in Massage Therapy | No Comments »

How To Install RAM On An iMac

Thursday, May 23rd, 2013

The quickest and most cost-effective way to increase the speed on your iMac is by replacing the RAM. Follow these easy steps to learn how to install RAM on an iMac.

1) Find Out Which Type Of iMac You Have

Check the Apple website to find out what model you own, what kind of RAM it takes, and how much memory it can hold. Typically, the iMac comes with 4GB of RAM in two-2GB memory modules, which takes up two of four memory slots on the iMac. Owners will usually increase memory by keeping the original 4GB and adding two more 4GB memory modules for a total of 12GB of memory. You can buy RAM on websites like Macsales.com, Newegg.com, and Amazon.com.

2) Access the Memory Bay

After unplugging your iMac, lay the monitor on a soft surface with the screen facing down. With a Phillips screwdriver, unscrew the three screws that hold the plate covering the compartment containing the iMac’s RAM. This is located at the bottom of the iMac monitor.

3) Remove Any Unwanted Memory Modules and Add New RAM

If you have any unwanted memory, you can remove the module by tugging firmly on the plastic ribbon. Once you have room for your new memory, you can slide the modules into the open slots. Simply slide the module into the compartment until you hear a click. Make sure you install the RAM with the labels facing up.

4) Reattach the memory access plate

Using the three Phillips screws, reattach the memory access plate. Once you plug in your computer and turn on the power, you should access the “About this Mac” section under the Apple logo in the top, left corner of your screen. It should show that your new memory has been installed. Now you can enjoy your faster computer!

Additional Help

If you would prefer to have a professional computer repair technician install your new RAM for you, Seva Call can help you find one. Just tell us what you need, where you are, and when you’re available, and we’ll connect you with up to three, high-quality technicians in your area who can help you out. It’s fast, easy, and free!

Posted in Computer Repair | No Comments »

Caloric Intake To Workout Ratio

Thursday, May 23rd, 2013

Are you taking the first few steps to a healthier, slimmer you? Yes? Then you may be considering how to determine your caloric intake to workout ratio. This is arguably the most important aspect of your weight loss efforts.

In a nutshell, this ratio is simply how many calories you need to consume and burn each day in order to lose weight in a healthy manner. There are too many factors that go into determining an individual’s caloric intake to workout ratio to be able to give a simple, clear answer. A professional personal trainer can work on your individual plan, but here are some of the factors that will be considered.

Weight

Surprisingly, the more you weigh, the more calories you burn. A 200-pound person walking the same distance at the same speed as a 120-pound person burns more calories. This is because the body must work harder to move 200 pounds than it does to move 120 pounds.

Activity Level

Are you a couch potato, or does your job leave you physically exhausted at the end of the day? The level of activity you perform on a daily basis (aside from your workouts) will determine how many calories you burn daily without working out.

Ultimately, your body burns calories doing menial tasks such as breathing, sitting, and even eating. A professional can determine how many calories your body needs to simply function throughout the day (your BMR or Basal Metabolic Rate).

A 5-foot, 4-inch female that weighs 145 pounds has an approximate BMR of 1,500 calories. This means that, functioning daily without exercise, this person will burn 1,500 calories. Once you know your BMR, you can adjust your caloric intake accordingly to lose weight. (Use My Calorie Counter to find your BMR)

Need Some Added Motivation?

Your best option to lose weight and determine your caloric intake to workout ratio is through the help of a qualified personal trainer or dietician. TalkLocal can find a personal trainer in your area for free. We will only find qualified individuals, and you will be speaking to them within minutes. You don’t have to go at it alone.

Posted in Personal Trainers | No Comments »

Sizes Of Portable Storage Units

Wednesday, May 22nd, 2013

If you want to hold onto your old items but don’t want them cluttering your home, you can choose to store them in a portable storage unit. Many people choose portable storage units because they can be delivered to your home, packed at your own pace, and then taken to a storage facility or kept in your garage or yard.

Many people who are preparing for a move also use portable storage units to pack their belongings and transfer them to their new location. There are several different sizes of portable storage units available, so no matter how much stuff you have, you can be sure to find something big enough to hold it all!

Small

The small-size units usually measure around five by 10 feet. They are large enough to hold most small furniture items and work well with boxes of small items. Small units can also hold beds and dressers, and are large enough to hold all of the contents of a one-bedroom apartment or a master bedroom.

Medium

Medium is one of the most popular sizes of portable storage units because it can hold a variety of things and is an affordable option. Medium storage units measure 10 by 15 feet and can hold cars, large appliances, and large furniture such as pool tables. They are typically large enough to hold the contents of two rooms or even those in a mobile home.

Large

The large-sized units measure approximately 10 by 25 feet and are the popular choice of movers who want to pack as many items into one unit as possible. These units can hold several large pieces of furniture as well as many moving boxes. They can also hold large vehicles, boats, and other items that need to be stored or delivered during a move.

Find Portable Storage Units Locally

There are many different sizes of portable storage units available to help you store or move your items. Each one is available at a different price, so it is important to choose which one will store all of your items while fitting within in your budget. If you are looking for a local service that offers these portable storage units, find them right away by using TalkLocal.

Posted in Moving and Storage | No Comments »

Buying A Foreclosed Home

Wednesday, May 22nd, 2013

When you are looking to buy a home, you know you’re generally going to sink in a lot of money into the investment. Many people spend most of their lives paying off their home mortgage. Buying a foreclosed home is a good way to try to lessen the financial burden of purchasing a home. The pros and cons of buying a foreclosed home are about even; it’s up to you to decide if that’s the route you want to take.

Pros Of Buying A Foreclosed Home:

– It’s significantly cheaper. On average, homeowners save about 15 to 20 percent when they buy a foreclosed home instead of a new home. This is because the home is owned by a lender who isn’t using the home, prompting them to lower their prices so they can sell it quickly.

– Foreclosed homes often sell through auctions, which can make the whole process a lot faster. This really helps you avoid the stressful process of slowly securing your new home.

– Buying a foreclosed home often leads to an immediate move-in. In other cases, the previous owner may need to move out of the home completely. With foreclosed homes, the previous owner is usually long gone.

Cons Of Buying A Foreclosed Home:

– Because no one has been living in the home, it has probably not been very well maintained. You need to consider this before you let your money trade hands. Make sure you know what you are getting when you buy a foreclosed home; you’ll probably have to make some repairs such as painting walls or repairing fences.

– Although it’s a huge bargain initially, saving money with a foreclosed home may affect the home value later. Your home’s value is based heavily on previous data, meaning that future buyers may estimate your home’s perceived value based on the price you paid, despite the foreclosure discount.

– Oftentimes, foreclosed homes are surrounded by other foreclosed homes, which may be a sign of a less-than-ideal neighborhood. Make sure that you’re comfortable living where the home is located.

Getting Professional Help

Depending on what’s important to you, buying a foreclosed home might just be the perfect option. If you need to speak with an expert about the process, TalkLocal can connect you with real estate professionals in your area.

Tags: buying house, foreclosed home, real estate
Posted in Real Estate | No Comments »

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