Annual Business Filings

Small businesses must ensure all annual filings and reports required by state and federal agencies are submitted on time.

These filings typically include:

Annual Reports: Many states require businesses to file annual reports that update corporate information such as directors, officers, and registered agents.

Tax Filings: Ensure timely filing of federal, state, and local tax returns, including income taxes, sales taxes, and employment taxes. Verify compliance with any changes in tax laws or regulations.

Compliance Review

Review the business's compliance with relevant laws and regulations throughout the year.

This includes:

Licenses and Permits: Verify that all necessary business licenses, permits, and registrations are up to date and renewed as required by local authorities.

Employment Laws: Ensure compliance with labor laws, including wage and hour regulations, worker classification (employee vs. independent contractor), and workplace safety standards.

Privacy and Data Security: Assess compliance with data protection laws if applicable, ensuring proper handling of customer data and cybersecurity measures.

Contractual Obligations

Review and renew contracts with suppliers, vendors, and clients to ensure terms are favorable and agreements are up to date.

Consider:

Contract Renewals: Evaluate existing contracts for renewal or renegotiation of terms, pricing, and scope of services.

New Contracts: Execute new contracts with clear terms and conditions that protect the business's interests and mitigate risks.

Employee Matters

Address employee-related legal obligations, including:

Employee Handbook Updates: Review and update the employee handbook to reflect any changes in policies, procedures, or legal requirements.

Performance Reviews and Contracts: Conduct employee performance reviews and update employment contracts or agreements as necessary.

Risk Management

Assess and mitigate legal risks that could impact the business's operations or reputation:

Insurance Coverage: Review business insurance policies (such as general liability, professional liability, and property insurance) to ensure adequate coverage and protection against potential liabilities.

Legal Compliance Audits: Consider conducting a comprehensive legal compliance audit to identify areas of vulnerability and implement corrective measures.

Corporate Governance

Ensure proper corporate governance practices are followed:

Board Meetings: Schedule and conduct annual board of directors meetings (if applicable) to review financial performance, strategic plans, and corporate governance matters.

Minutes and Records: Maintain accurate minutes of meetings and records of corporate actions throughout the year.

Strategic Planning

Use the end-of-year period to reflect on the business's legal and operational performance, and plan strategically for the future: Business Goals: Set goals and objectives for the upcoming year, aligning legal strategies with overall business objectives. Legal Budget: Review and allocate resources for legal expenses, including anticipated costs for compliance, litigation, or regulatory changes.

Conclusion

By prioritizing these end-of-year legal tasks, small businesses can enhance their legal compliance, mitigate risks, and position themselves for success in the coming year. Proactively addressing these responsibilities not only strengthens the business's legal foundation but also fosters confidence among stakeholders and supports sustainable growth. As small businesses navigate the complexities of legal obligations, they reinforce their commitment to operational excellence and compliance in an evolving business landscape. If your business has end of the year risk management or strategic planning needs, please reach out to us, and schedule some time for a visit.