One of the cold, hard facts about running a for-profit enterprise is that fines, fees, and similar expenses can increase business costs. In certain situations, owners aren’t even sure why they have to pay fines. Others are fully aware of what’s going on but hope to avoid getting caught. Depending on where your company is located and engages customers, there can be hundreds of possible ways to run into a conflict with the law.
For some entrepreneurs, particularly new ones, the most common problem is missing a timely tax payment, and the financial sting can be significant. In the transport industry, owners and fleet supervisors pay close attention to clean air regulations to avoid hefty fines from state authorities. Owners of small organizations routinely fall prey to monetary penalties related to operating without the right kind of licenses, using false claims in advertisements, and having unsafe premises. If you own or manage a company, review the following points to prevent a costly legal expense.
Late Tax Payments
Late fees from the federal and state tax authorities are a major concern for modern entrepreneurs and owners, especially among startups and small businesses. Depending on how late you are and how much tax you owe, the setback can be considerable. Plus, revenue departments in individual states, as well as the IRS, charge interest on unpaid taxes. Consult a professional accountant and set up quarterly payments if necessary.
Running into Difficulty of Smog Check Rules
In the commercial transport sector, fleet managers are the ultimate multi-taskers. Not only do they need to meet deadlines and keep drivers safe on the road, but they also must pass smog checks in many jurisdictions without falling behind schedule. Fortunately, for California-based government fleets, owners can save time completing routine smog checks by using the latest telematics systems.
However, owners need to be aware of California regulations and requirements so they can comply fully with the laws. The best way to acquire the necessary information is to review a comprehensive guide that explains how telematics can work to maximize vehicle operational time, make smog check compliance as fast as possible, and thus reduce your company’s cost of operations across the board.
False Advertising
In the internet age, more companies are running afoul of the truth in advertising laws, most of which were written in the 1960s. The general rule is that ad copy must generally be truthful, but there are allowances for what the law calls puffery or claims like their restaurant has the best steaks in the world, or ABC Company is the industry’s most capable accounting firm.
Unsafe Premises
One of the quickest ways to receive a large bill from state or local authorities is to neglect the general safety of your work premises. That category includes office space, manufacturing facilities, storefronts, and any place you perform services or sell goods. The most common culprit is the slippery floor, a potentially fatal hazard that often goes unnoticed. All it takes is a small puddle of water to create a large problem. Efficient managers typically keep a close eye on any unsafe areas and take immediate steps to rectify the situation as soon as they notice it.
