Category: Bookkeeping

  • Accounting Principles II: Payroll Liabilities Accounting Principles

    payroll expense

    This could include sales and closing contracts, major decision-making, management roles, and more. Understand classification rules in the countries where your contractors live. These can vary greatly from country to country and may change without warning. If your legal team does not have dedicated resources to keep up with global contractor regulations, you may need outside help from an international contractor management company.

    The cost of labor is broken into direct and indirect (overhead) costs. Direct labor costs are those expenses that are https://www.bookstime.com/articles/what-is-payroll-expense directly related to product production. Direct costs include the wages of employees who directly make the product.

    How to file and pay

    For more information on how to hire international contractors, see Remote’s Expert Guide to Hiring International Contractors. Salaried jobs usually also come with better benefits, such as 401(k) plans, better health insurance, life insurance, and flexible spending accounts (FSA). Wage expenses vary from one period to the next, depending on the number of business days in the period and the amount of overtime to be paid.

    Is payroll an asset liability or equity?

    Answer and Explanation: Wages expense account is an expense account reported on the income statement; thus, the wages payable account is a liability account disclosed on the balance sheet.

    This is even more true today as more workers turn to the gig economy for primary or supplemental income. More and more workers are remote and on the move, so you might need to understand the rules for more than one country for each worker. Clearly, the consequences of misclassifying contractors can outweigh any advantages or cost savings.

    The Payactiv Payroll Card Option

    So March revenue matches March expenses, including the $3,000 payroll costs. Calculate gross wages from an annual salary or hourly pay rate and hours worked. The gross wages you pay employees may be your largest https://www.bookstime.com/. Employers are required to pay payroll taxes to state and federal agencies based on their gross payroll figures. Contributions in this category include Social Security and Medicare as well as industrial and unemployment insurance premiums.

    What is an example of an employee expense?

    Employee Expenses means gross Employee wages and salaries, incentive compensation, commissions, workers' compensation, sick pay, dues, vacation, pension and retirement payments (including any matching, profit sharing or other employer contributions to any defined contribution pension plan, any minimum funding …

    After this the supplements created in Payroll from theses expenses will be automatically deleted. Misclassification can result in serious consequences, especially as more countries crack down on misclassification in the growing gig economy. At any moment, executives or team members may own public or private stock in any of the third party companies we mention. Open a new browser tab and perform a Google search for the Allegheny County Real Estate website. An account is a 6-digit numeric value that defines the specific type of expense. It identifies the most commonly used specific expense account values.

    The tax does not apply to you if you are:

    The account balance will be reduced and Worker Compensation Insurance Expense will increase as the employees work. The employer’s share of Medicare taxes is recorded as an expense and as an additional current liability until the amounts are remitted. The employer’s share of Social Security taxes is recorded as an expense and as an additional current liability until the amounts are remitted. Employers are beginning to see the value in giving people greater choice as to when and how they’re paid. If people prefer monthly direct deposits (or even paper checks), that’s OK, and they should still be able to get them. However, the growing sector of the workforce who prefer paycards, digital accounts, EWA, and on-demand pay should also be recognized and supported.

    However, if you use the services of freelancers or contractors, you’re not required by law to pay taxes on the fees you pay them, and they’re responsible for their own tax withholdings. The correct expense category for payroll will vary depending on the business, so it is important to consult with an accountant or financial advisor to ensure that all expenses are properly categorized. Yes, payroll expenses are operating expenses included on the income statement.

    Collect information on Form W-4

    People might need to swap shifts with a colleague at short notice to provide childcare or take a parent to the hospital. The smart move is to do everything possible to encourage employees to remain with your company. For tips on improving your employee value proposition and reducing staff turnover, read our blog. Whatever the size or nature of your business, your payroll is something you have to manage carefully.

  • Cash Basis Accounting: Definition, Example, Vs Accrual

    examples of companies that use cash basis accounting

    You also had to recognize both the supplies expense and the rent expense in December because that’s when both were paid. This may influence which products we review and write about (and where those products appear on the site), but it in no way affects our recommendations or advice, which are grounded in thousands of hours of research. Our partners cannot pay us to guarantee favorable reviews of their products or services. Say you have a project to complete between April 1st and May 30th valued at $10,000. You and the client signed the contract on April 1st, and your entire staff started working on completing deliverables on that date, but you have yet to receive payment.

    How cash basis accounting violates GAAP

    For that reason, the method is best for small businesses that do not stock inventory. Cash basis refers to a major accounting method that recognizes revenues and expenses at the time cash is received or examples of companies that use cash basis accounting paid out. This contrasts accrual accounting, which recognizes income at the time the revenue is earned and records expenses when liabilities are incurred regardless of when cash is received or paid.

    Why your business might use cash basis accounting

    examples of companies that use cash basis accounting

    For instance, certain businesses cannot use cash-basis accounting because of the Tax Reform Act of 1986. “The biggest disadvantage of cash basis accounting is that it doesn’t capture economic transactions in the right time period,” Koonce notes. Significant swings in cash can distort the financial results, obscuring the true nature of a business and complicating planning and forecasting. Accrual accounting has accounts receivable (A/R) and accounts payable (A/P) in financial statements, which inform you of what payments you will receive and your outstanding bills. In contrast, with the accrual method, payments are recorded when earned, giving the business a better sense of the company’s actual sales and profits.

    examples of companies that use cash basis accounting

    Business Class

    • Cash basis accounting does not adhere to the Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP), widely recognized accounting standards that govern financial reporting in the US.
    • The business has issued a quote to the client, but the final invoice will only be issued upon completion of the project after which the client will make the full payment.
    • For companies required to comply with GAAP standards, the accrual-basis method is the preferred form of accounting.
    • Using accrual accounting provides a much more accurate summary of your business.
    • The main difference between cash basis accounting and accrual basis accounting is when revenues and expenses are recognized.
    • Cash basis accounting simplifies tax preparation since only the actual amounts you pay or receive are reported on taxes.
    • If you’re not paying employees and don’t want to be tasked with tracking accounts payable and accounts receivable balances, the cash accounting method may be for you.

    If you work with an accountant, you can easily share your spreadsheets to provide an accurate look at your finances and tax obligations. Using the cash method for income taxes is popular with businesses for two main reasons. First, the method of accounting easily allows businesses to answer questions regarding annual revenue, expenses and financial losses. And for businesses that focus on inward cash flow, it is easier to align earnings with important dates, making it easier to pay taxes on time. The IRS permits qualifying small businesses to use cash basis accounting to report their income.

    Not compliant with GAAP

    Although cash basis accounting has its perks, it does come with its disadvantages. For example, if you’re a retailer of kids’ clothing, you might experience a slow summer, but a surge in sales come August and early September. Without forecasting and completing a comparative analysis, you might assume you’re in a profitable spot without accounting for the past decline in sales and a slow-to-steady fall. Furthermore, a company that uses the cash basis of accounting may need to put additional procedures and controls in place that can erode the method’s overall ease of use. For example, the company may need to create a supplemental process to stay on top of outstanding amounts due from customers, since it won’t have accounts receivable ledgers.

    examples of companies that use cash basis accounting

    Cash accounting vs. accrual basis accounting: What’s the difference?

    • Larger companies typically have more intricate financial operations, such as inventory management and long-term contracts, which require accrual accounting to accurately reflect their financial performance.
    • This method might help you delay paying income tax on some earnings during a specific tax year — which can be especially helpful since small businesses have plenty of expenses and costs such as overhead, rent, and more.
    • Then,accountants attempt to prepare accurate reports on the entity’sactivities for these periods.
    • Your customer’s invoice payment, on the other hand, wouldn’t be recorded until July, since that’s when you received and deposited the check.
    • For some small business owners and independent contractors who carry no inventory, it is a suitable accounting practice.
    • The accrual accounting method tracks earnings and expenses when first incurred, rather than waiting to document them when money gets received or bills paid.

    Here’s a breakdown of each accounting method’s unique pros and cons, as well as who each method is best for. Though the cash-basis accounting technique has advantages, there are notable setbacks. Learn how to set up a small business accounting systems with this step-by-step guide. Expenses are recorded at the time they are paid, regardless of when the financial commitment was made.

    Cash vs. accrual accounting

    Under the cash basis of accounting, you record transactions only when there is a change in cash. If you’re unsure which method makes sense for you, talk with your accountant or bookkeeper. Make sure they understand what you want to gain from your financial statements and that they aren’t basing their advice solely on your business’s tax basis.

    It’s the simpler of the two primary accounting methods, which is one reason it can be preferred for many small businesses and entrepreneurs. However, it’s important to understand its limitations, especially to avert growing pains if and when the time comes to transition to GAAP-compliant financial accounting, which uses the accrual basis. The cash basis of accounting records business transactions when cash changes hands. In other words, revenue is recorded in the actual period when a business receives cash, and expenses are reflected when cash is paid out. Further, cash basis accounting focuses only on cash transactions, thus sidestepping issues like accruals, deferrals, and non-cash items, such as depreciation (all hallmarks of the accrual basis of accounting). And if you maintain your books on a cash basis, there will be little difference between your financial statements and your tax returns.

    Tax Reform Update: Manufacturers May Benefit from Accounting Method Change – CLA (CliftonLarsonAllen)

    Tax Reform Update: Manufacturers May Benefit from Accounting Method Change.

    Posted: Fri, 02 Feb 2018 08:00:00 GMT [source]

  • How to Set Up an Effective Mobile Office

    Based on the subscription plan you choose, you can have one, five or 10 computers and mobile devices use the same account. The iPhone 13 Pro Max is currently Apple’s most powerful and feature-packed smartphone. Its large, 6.7-inch Super Retina XDR touchscreen display makes it very conducive for work-related tasks, especially when you’re using this mobile device as a communications and productivity https://bookkeeping-reviews.com/ tool. It’s also one of the best tools for creative professionals who need to prototype some photographic or audible art. As a productivity and communications tool, the iPad Pro becomes even more powerful when the optional Apple Magic Keyboard ($299) is connected. The tablet also works with the Apple Pencil 2 ($129) stylus, so you can handwrite or draw directly on the 11-inch screen.

    What is needed for a mobile office?

    A Laptop or Tablet that Suits Your Needs

    Weight of the device. Necessary accessories. Memory and processing speed needed. Battery life (and access to charging outlets.

    Once you’ve determined where you’ll work and how you work best, you’re on your way to success as a remote worker. The next step is to satisfy the basics of your mobile office setup, which we’ll cover in the next section. However, most internet users have access to Google Drive or a similar cloud-based service allowing files to be truly “portable” and accessible wherever you have an Internet connection. The best part is that you don’t need to purchase hardware for these virtual office tools. They offer “Mobile Office” smartphone applications, available for Android and iPhone devices. There are several virtual office phone systems and companies that can provide you with a virtual business address and phone numbers.

    Mobile power play

    This can be accommodated by installing a power inverter or generator that can provide the necessary power. One of the most important factors to consider when selecting materials for a mobile office trailer is durability. The materials used in the space should be able to withstand the constant movement https://bookkeeping-reviews.com/setting-up-a-mobile-office-for-your-business/ and vibrations that come with being on the road. Lightweight materials like aluminum and composite panels are both durable and easy to transport, making them an excellent choice for mobile office design. Ergonomic principles are critical in any workspace, and a mobile office trailer is no exception.

    • You want your workspace to be quick to set up and easy to tear down.
    • The folding smartphone uses the latest version of Android 11, so it’s chock full of features and functionality, especially when you add optional apps from the Google Play Store.
    • An unlocked M5 costs $800, but if you don’t need the 5G bandwidth, the LTE-based MR1100 is $430.
    • Whichever option you choose, make sure you protect your data by using an encrypted password.

    You should also bring the power cord for your mobile computer so you can keep it charged and ready to go. And it’s a good idea to travel with a small surge protector to protect your computer in case of an unexpected power surge. If the business requires frequent collaboration and interaction between employees, an open-concept layout may be the ideal choice.

    Internet Connectivity Is A Must When Working Remotely

    Computers today come with hard drive space as low as 256GB, all the way up to 4TB (or 4,000GB). It doesn’t help to buy more space than you need since your computer will run just as well whether you use some or nearly all of the allotted storage. A good indicator of how much you’ll need is how much you’ve used in your current model computer. On the lowest end, 256GB is sufficient for light users, though 512GB is a better choice, and 1TB is more than enough for most.

    Started in 2014 in China, it is known for offering high quality devices with design simplicity. Trailing only Apple and Samsung in quality, it introduced its first 5G phone in April 2020, the OnePlus 8 Pro. The larger storage option is currently priced at a competitive $800. It’s important to choose a CPU appropriate to your usage, as more powerful processors drag down battery life (another important consideration).

    Setting Up Your Mobile Office in the Cloud

    Our goal is to add value through education and support for those transitioning to, or already working remote. If you want more resources on working remotely, follow the link to get our FREE Masterclass How To Find Remote Work in 90 Days (or Less), so you can have more security and freedom. Wi-Fi extending devices use an external Wi-Fi antenna & radio to reach hotspots that are further away. These may also come equipped with a cellular antenna port for connection to an external cellular antenna, eliminating the need for a separate cellular booster.

    5 tips for staying safe in a thunderstorm – Met Office

    5 tips for staying safe in a thunderstorm.

    Posted: Fri, 09 Jun 2023 14:27:36 GMT [source]

    The configuration shown here comes with 128GB and can connect to the Internet via a Wi-Fi or cellular data connection. The cellular data is useful when a public Wi-Fi hotspot is not accessible, but you still need up to a 5G wireless data connection (via a cellular service provider) to access the Internet. Some of most scenic places traveling remote workers want to visit often have limited network coverage or weak signals. There are some technical solutions that can allow you to work and go see Utah’s incredible national parks or the Great Smoky Mountains on your off days.

  • Cash Basis vs Accrual Basis: What’s the Difference?

    examples of companies that use cash basis accounting

    Or, it may need to establish additional controls to handle cash receipts and disbursements, to limit the likelihood of loss or theft. Remember that cash accounting relies on money received and paid out immediately, meaning that you’d only consider transactions 3 and 4 when considering your taxable income. In other words, you’d only pay taxes on the net income of $925 and not on the invoices sent or bills received. An example of cash basis accounting would be a small retail store that purchases products from a supplier. The store would recognize the expense only once the product payment has been made rather than when they receive the goods. It provides you and any outside parties with a much more accurate financial picture.

    Cash EBITDA – Overview, How to Calculate, Adjusting EBITDA – Corporate Finance Institute

    Cash EBITDA – Overview, How to Calculate, Adjusting EBITDA.

    Posted: Thu, 28 Sep 2023 15:15:12 GMT [source]

    Is cash basis accounting allowed under GAAP?

    Now, when you look at your income statement, you can see that the job was actually quite profitable. Accrual-basis and cash-basis accounting each have their advantages and drawbacks. There are logical reasons, such as company size and budget, that might lead a business to prefer one system over the other. If you are unsure which approach is best for your business, it may be a good idea to seek professional advice to determine if your company should use cash or accrual accounting. These documents reveal when you receive payments and any invoices that are still outstanding.

    • During the four months, the business incurs expenses for construction material required for the project as well as running costs for labor, administration, etc.
    • In this case, the income would only be recognized once payment has been received from the customer.
    • The larger and more complex your business becomes, the more willing you should be to shift to accrual-basis-friendly software and services.
    • Your customer paid you at the beginning of July, and you deposited the check on July 5.
    • An accounting system that doesn’t record accruals but instead recognizes income (or revenue) only when payment is received and expenses only when payment is made.

    CASH VERSUS ACCRUAL BASIS

    examples of companies that use cash basis accounting

    Ultimately, the right accounting method for you will depend on your business’s needs and whether you plan to track accounts receivable and payable. The cash method is simple in that the business’s books are kept based on the actual flow of cash in and out of the business. Income is recorded when it’s received, and expenses are reported when they’re actually paid. The cash method is used by many sole proprietors and businesses with no inventory. From a tax standpoint, it’s sometimes advantageous for a new business to use the cash method of accounting. That way, recording income can be put off until the next tax year, while expenses are counted right away.

    What’s the Difference Between Cash Basis and Accrual Basis?

    Tracking cash flow can, therefore, be a bit more straightforward and less complicated than it is with accrual accounting. Cash basis accounting simplifies tax preparation since only the actual amounts you pay or receive are reported on taxes. By eliminating the need for tracking ‌accounts receivable and payable, businesses can save time preparing their taxes by not having to reconcile them with their financial statements. examples of companies that use cash basis accounting First, cash basis accounting is much easier than its accrual basis counterpart, partially because cash basis accounting eliminates the need to track accounts payable or accounts receivable. Cash basis accounting recognizes revenue when cash is received and when expenses are paid. If you invoice a client, but they don’t pay you until next month, you recognize that revenue when it’s received, not when it’s billed.

    Alternative accounting methods:

    • Because accrual accounting records revenue when earned and expenses when incurred, rather than following cash inflows and outflows, it can give a more accurate overall picture of a business’s operations.
    • In other words, you’d only pay taxes on the net income of $925 and not on the invoices sent or bills received.
    • If you’re unsure which method makes sense for you, talk with your accountant or bookkeeper.
    • The primary difference between them is the timing of when transactions are recorded.
    • For that reason, the method is best for small businesses that do not stock inventory.
    • That way, recording income can be put off until the next tax year, while expenses are counted right away.
    • Whenever a business is born, owners need to decide whether they’re going to start with the cash basis accounting method or jump to the accrual basis route, which is a major decision that shapes the future of their company.

    Keep in mind that using the accrual method of accounting will require you to keep a closer eye on cash flow, which can be obscured when using accrual accounting. Keep in mind that the choice to use cash basis or accrual basis accounting will impact your business for the foreseeable future. Additionally, whereas cash basis accounting does not conform to GAAP, accrual basis accounting does.

    examples of companies that use cash basis accounting

    What is an example of cash accounting?

    examples of companies that use cash basis accounting

    • Cash basis accounting is simpler to understand and requires fewer journal entries.
    • That timing discrepancy could make it difficult for you to determine whether that job was profitable.
    • If you’re looking to make the move from spreadsheet accounting or are in the market for a new accounting software application, be sure to check out The Ascent’s accounting software reviews.
    • So while you actually did not have a loss, your income statement shows that you did.
    • Knowing exactly how much cash is available helps determine when bills get paid or how quickly.
    • Cash basis accounting is one of two major accounting methods businesses use to record revenue and expenses.
    • For example, a business can experience a decline in sales one month but if a large number of clients pay their invoices with the same period, cash-basis accounting can be misleading by showing an influx of cash.
  • How Do I File Returns for Back Taxes?

    how many years can you file back taxes

    Since the tax law changes from year to year, it’s important that you use the instructions applicable for the applicable tax year. Aside from the confusion it will cause, using the wrong instructions may cause you to underpay or overpay the amount of tax you actually owe. For example, if you don’t file your 2022 return due on April 18, 2023, you have until April 18, 2026, to file and claim your refund. Because of the potential for interest, the IRS advises you to pay your tax bill in full as soon as possible. “There may be tax attributes in those years that carry forward,” he adds.

    how many years can you file back taxes

    How long does the IRS have to collect back taxes?

    • Before jumping into filing back taxes, it’s essential to understand where your tax obligations stand.
    • That minimum ranges from $5 to $30,700 based on your age and filing status.
    • These payments are generally required for sole proprietors who aren’t subject to withholding from their paychecks by an employer.
    • If you received a notice, you should send us a copy of the past due return to the indicated address.
    • An installment agreement can give you up to 72 months to pay, but you must owe the IRS $50,000 or less to qualify.

    When filing back taxes, make sure you use the original tax forms and instructions for the year you file. You may be able to prepare your back tax returns using online software, and you may be able to e-file. However, you’ll typically need to print and mail a return for back taxes, as well, if your software is not approved for the Modernized e-File (MeF) system. The best way to avoid paying back taxes is filing your annual tax return during tax season.

    Which of these is most important for your financial advisor to have?

    The IRS says failing to file your taxes could also impact your Social Security benefits and chances of getting quickly approved for a loan. The IRS says it typically takes six weeks to process past-due returns that don’t have errors. Whenever possible, it’s important to prioritize repaying back taxes as soon as you can. Keep in mind that your CSED can be extended or suspended by the IRS, essentially giving them more time to collect IRS back taxes.

    how many years can you file back taxes

    If you are missing a W-2 or 1099-R and cannot obtain a copy from your employer, you can download and complete Form 4852 as a substitute for a missing W-2 or 1099-R. If you have a substitute for return in your past or delinquent-return notice, you will need to file the return with specific IRS units for special processing. If you choose to go it alone, make sure that you take your time to ensure accuracy when filing returns—any errors could result in fines or penalties from the IRS.

    Filing Late Taxes Exceptions and Special Situations

    It takes approximately 6 weeks for us to process an accurately completed past due tax return. If you need wage and income information to help prepare a past due return, complete Form 4506-T, Request for Transcript of Tax Return, and check the box on line 8. Find what you need to get started, your protections and security, available forms and more about http://leninvi.com/t09/p505 IRS Free File. It’s not uncommon for individuals to miss tax deadlines due to varied reasons like financial hardships, unawareness, or unprecedented events. While the federal guidelines might provide a foundational understanding, state tax rules can differ significantly. Fill out the forms you need according to the instructions for those forms.

    how many years can you file back taxes

    Therefore, it’s crucial to be aware of both federal and state rules when determining how far back you can file. If you are missing a W-2 or 1099-R and cannot obtain a copy from your employer, you can download and complete Form 4852 as a substitute for a missing W-2. When you use Taxfyle, you’re guaranteed an affordable, licensed Professional.

    However, it’s a little more complicated if you owed money to the IRS for the years in question. Set your business up for success with our free small business tax calculator. Save more by mixing and matching the bookkeeping, tax, and consultation services you need. You may be able to file for free, though you might have to pay for postage to mail in the printed return.

    Your credit or refund is limited to the amount you paid within the 2 years right before you filed your claim. Unlike penalties, interest does not stop accruing like the failure to file and failure to pay penalties. Moving forward, start setting aside money for your small business taxes to avoid falling behind. If you need help getting started, use our free quarterly tax calculator to determine what your estimated taxes will be.

    The same rule applies to a right to claim tax credits such as the Earned Income Credit. There are special circumstances where the IRS may grantextensions beyond the three-year rule for refunds, such as in the case ofmilitary service or natural disasters. Additionally, individuals with specifictax-related issues, such as victims of fraud, may also find exceptions to thesegeneral rules. It’s essential to consult with a tax professional or directlywith the IRS to understand if your situation qualifies for such exceptions. Many tax apps not only remind you of upcoming deadlines but also assist in the tax filing process.

    The IRS offers several options to assist taxpayers who cannot pay their tax liability; however, if you owe back taxes, it’s up to you to contact the IRS for assistance. If you do nothing, the IRS will continue to charge interest on your unpaid taxes. Many tax software packages allow you to file prior-year tax returns, and tax pros do prior-year returns, too. They can also help you discover which deductions and credits you might have been eligible for during the tax year. The IRS won’t necessarily have your best interests in mind when filing your substitute return. They won’t http://dance-fm.ru/social/5338-angelpromo/profile.html look for any applicable tax credits, deductions, exemptions, or write-offs, which can substantially lower your tax debt.

    how many years can you file back taxes

    • If the IRS analyzes your financial circumstances and sees that you can not make the payments, they may be willing to settle for a smaller amount.
    • These penalties cancompound quickly, making it imperative to address back taxes as soon aspossible.
    • So the IRS won’t include business expenses, charitable donations, out-of-pocket medical expenses, and other tax write-offs on your SFR.
    • By collating and storing relevant documents as they come in throughout the year, you not only simplify the process at tax time but also reduce the likelihood of overlooking vital information.

    By doing so, taxpayers can protect their financial health, maintain good credit standing, and achieve peace of mind, knowing they have fulfilled their obligations and mitigated http://sadovnikinfo.ru/ogorod/1347-trikhozanat-yaponskiy-zmeevidnyy-ogurets-vyrashchivaem-doma.html potential financial repercussions. The IRS Free File program is a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) between the IRS and the Free File Alliance, a coalition of leading tax preparation software companies. The online tax preparation software partners are part of the  Free File Alliance, which coordinates with the IRS to provide free electronic federal tax preparation and filing to you.

    Gather all necessary tax documentation, consult with a tax professional, and use the appropriate tax forms for each year you’re filing. Nevertheless, the consequences of delayed filings can be severe, ranging from financial penalties and credit score impacts to potential legal ramifications and IRS audits. Maintaining an organized financial record system is pivotal for hassle-free tax filing. By collating and storing relevant documents as they come in throughout the year, you not only simplify the process at tax time but also reduce the likelihood of overlooking vital information. The IRS keeps a vigilant eye on tax filings, and discrepancies or consistent late filings can raise red flags. Accounts showing significant owed amounts or patterns of irregularities are more susceptible to audits.

  • Retail Marketing Guide to Email Marketing 2020

    It’ll put your marketing efforts to good use and increase your bottom line over time. Today, personalization in email is a lot more than auto-populating the user’s name in the subject line. The rise of Big Data has given retailers more insight into their audience than ever before, and automation makes it easier to leverage that data strategically. You could take this up a notch by creating your own automated email outside of Eventbrite. You can include your branding, high-quality imagery of your store, and/or product recommendations.

    Retail Marketing Guide To Email Marketing

    Retailers need to look to the future, stay ahead of trends and adopt the strategies that will define retail’s new era… We’ll also send you updates on new educational guides and success stories from the Shopify newsletter. Present a great incentive for signing up, either with a signup form on your landing page, through a paid ad, or even via a compelling video or engaging webinar. For example, you could include multiple product boxes in your email that show up depending on the interests of the person who opens the email. Nurture and grow your business with customer relationship management software.

    Guide to Email Marketing for Retailers

    Using various data points that it has on users, it’s able to auto-fill users’ preferences and include them in the automated email. To take this idea up a notch, Debus also recommends weaving product recommendations and upselling in the drip campaign. You could make these offers redeemable in-store only so you’re using email to drive foot traffic to your physical location. From templates to tracking, Shopify Email gives you the tools to build lasting customer relationships. And with no experience needed, you’ll look like an expert right from the start. Plus, email plays a massive role in encouraging customers to shop more with you.

    Sign up for MailerLite to bring powerful email marketing functionality to your retail operation. Check out our latest email marketing benchmarks article to see how your email campaigns stack up against other retail or online stores. Fabletics sends a simple abandoned cart email that includes a product box with an image and link as well as a special offer to push the recipient to buy. Mr Porter’s welcome email includes the discount code used to incentivize signups, further information about why to shop at the store and a link to the site’s latest product arrivals.

    Free retail email templates you can customize

    When you have a new product, you want your fan base to know so they can get to your store or to your website to make a purchase. The Shopify Point of Sale is a great way to collect email addresses and bridge the gap between online and retail storefronts. LIVELY, a bra retailer based in New York City, uses the Shopify POS to nurture customer relationships after initial discovery. Buck Mason is a fashion brand and retailer with shops in New York, California, and Texas. It sent this email to promote its Masks For America initiative of donating one million masks to those on the front lines. It sent the following email to inspire runners for the fall season.

    Retail Marketing Guide To Email Marketing

    Once it’s back in stock, the email is triggered to send to the customers that want it. The message personalizes and makes consumers feel special by showing them this offer is based on them. Using the ability to track, segment, personalize, and automate it all lets them send out a dynamic offer based on their favorites. Retail businesses need to adapt to current email marketing strategies, which are taking on even more significance in 2023. Email regulations are consistent with consumers’ desires to know how and why their information is being used.

    A 6-step guide to email marketing for eCommerce

    Whether you’re specialized in a single sport or your equipment keeps people active the whole year through, you need a… In pursuit of results, retailers are searching for best practices around reaching consumers while staying authentic in their communications. The pop-up grabs the visitors attention, helping Province Apothecary deliver a targeted message at the right time.

    • The Shopify POS can automatically send email receipts after a successful in-store payment or even when you make a refund.
    • Today, personalization in email is a lot more than auto-populating the user’s name in the subject line.
    • Now you can put all the pieces together and start using marketing automation to your advantage, acting behind the scenes to deliver all your messages.
    • If a customer fills up a shopping cart at Birchbox, they’ll receive an email reminding them that they have items in their cart.
    • Some audiences prefer personalization and others will think it’s spammy.
    • There are several actions that could trigger this block including submitting a certain word or phrase, a SQL command or malformed data.

    Once you’ve created these segments, you can use specific offers that will only be seen by that segment. It’s simple to integrate Campaign Monitor with today’s top e-commerce solutions. You can automatically add customers to your list and send automated campaigns based on your customer’s buying behavior. Campaign Monitor offers many amazing integrations that can make it easy for retailers to automate their efforts. You can integrate your email marketing with Magento, Shopify, Salesforce, and many other e-commerce and billing platforms. Nearly 50 years since its introduction, email has remained a crucial tool for retail marketers.

    These days, technology allows you to integrate your customer data and provide a personalized experience for each of your customers. In fact, customers expect you to gather data, and they expect you to use it for their benefit. https://bookkeeping-reviews.com/ Retailers can also use strategic email marketing to improve customer retention, improve buyer trust, and increase conversion rates. With email, it’s simple to showcase products and reach customers right where they are.

    6 Expert Quotes for Transforming Email Marketing – CMSWire

    6 Expert Quotes for Transforming Email Marketing.

    Posted: Wed, 07 Jun 2023 10:57:13 GMT [source]

    Email marketing can be one of the biggest drivers of your retail business—it just takes a little know-how and strategic thinking. Give the tips and strategies in this guide a try to see how retail email marketing can move the needle for your business. Start testing the email campaigns above today to make sure you don’t leave money on the table.

    Retail email examples

    Curate a list of prospects wanting to hear from you with high-quality lead magnets in which a quality email search tool can be installed. Email marketing can help nurture your relationships with recipients, leading them through a buyer’s journey from awareness to consideration to decision-making. Email campaigns can also help recent customers become recurring customers, brand loyalists, and advocates. To get started with personalization, you’ll need to segment your email lists. Using data you already have, you can sort customers based on a number of attributes, such as gender, age, past purchases, or geography. You can gain this information through your sign up forms, or use integrations to pull data from existing systems, such as a CRM or Shopify, Magento or WooCommerce.

    How to use email in retail communication?

    1. Build your own email list (avoid buying lists)
    2. Segment your lists.
    3. Choose the right email marketing software for your needs.
    4. Utilize automation in your campaigns.
    5. Personalize subject lines & email copy.
    6. Optimize emails for all devices.

    Automated, behavioral trigger-based email sequences are the crown jewels of email marketing. You can use them to establish a humanized, if not human, connection. More importantly, to reach out to customers at the right time without spending hundreds of hours tracking and monitoring specific actions like signing up, cart abandonment, birthdays, etc. Unlike more traditional marketing methods, email is measurable.

    Start sending newsletter campaigns as soon as you have some email addresses. Send them weekly, biweekly, or monthly to keep people updated about your store and encourage them to buy. Some https://bookkeeping-reviews.com/retail-marketing-guide-to-email-marketing/ audiences prefer personalization and others will think it’s spammy. Some audiences will like bright, eye-catching CTA buttons, and others will prefer a more subtle call-to-action.

  • Lecture 6 Universal Accounting Equation pdf ENGR PHYS 216 SPRING 2021 Lecture 6 Universal Accounting Equation UAE Prof R. Waer Learning

    current assets

    The http://www.hcv.ru/faq_v6/efaq/sect11.1.5.html equation is something that must be understood thoroughly by those who deal with money and those who want to ensure they are making the best decisions financially. The accounting equation matters because keeping track of each transaction’s corresponding entry on each side is essential for keeping records accurate. In worst-case scenarios, the company could go bankrupt as a result of mishandling finances using inaccurate numbers due to an unbalanced equation. In April, First Shop, Inc. paid a portion of its accounts payable by $250. To illustrate how the accounting equation works, let us analyze the transactions of a fictitious corporation, First Shop, Inc.

    What are the 5 basic accounting principles?

    • Revenue Recognition Principle. When you are recording information about your business, you need to consider the revenue recognition principle.
    • Cost Principle.
    • Matching Principle.
    • Full Disclosure Principle.
    • Objectivity Principle.

    Financing through debt shows as a liability, while financing through issuing equity shares appears in shareholders’ equity. Under these standards, businesses will not record some items as assets though they may initially appear to be. Party Planners, an event planner and producer, records and tracks every cost in detail and provides an itemized invoice for $150,000 to Ivy University for their services at the commencement ceremony. However, Ivy University simply records the entire amount of the invoice as part of their overall Event Expenses account.

    The Math Behind the Accounting Equation

    It is one of those equations from which a multitude of other equations is derived. It is the most fundamental equation upon which multitudes of other equations are based upon. It forms the primary principle of accounting, and it helps in maintaining the balance sheet of a company. All of the accounts listed on the left are increased by debiting them and decreased by crediting.

    • Expenses are the costs to provide your products or services.
    • Identify the effects—both the direction and the dollar amount—of the given transaction on the total stockholders’ equity of Cadberry Corporation.
    • Peggy James is an expert in accounting, corporate finance, and personal finance.
    • This can be a serious asset to have when a company is experiencing a cash-flow problem.
    • The ledger has debits on the left side and credits on the right side.
    • When you use the accounting equation, you can see if you use business funds for your assets or finance them through debt.

    Paying with a credit card is considered borrowing too, unless you pay off the balance before the end of the month. Kirsten Rohrs Schmitt is an accomplished professional editor, writer, proofreader, and fact-checker. She has expertise in finance, investing, real estate, and world history. Kirsten is also the founder and director of Your Best Edit; find her on LinkedIn and Facebook.

    What are liabilities?

    Apple pays for rent ($600) and utilities ($200) expenses for a total of $800 in cash. Apple performs $3,500 of app development services for iPhone 13 users, receives $1,500 from customers, and bills the remaining balance on the account ($2,000).

    • This straightforward relationship between assets, liabilities, and equity is considered to be the foundation of the double-entry accounting system.
    • It is the most fundamental equation upon which multitudes of other equations are based upon.
    • The main use of this equation is for the accurate recording of the balance sheet.
    • A commonly used report, called the “trial balance,” lists every account in the general ledger that has any activity.
    • Both liabilities and shareholders’ equity represent how the assets of a company are financed.

    Stockholders can transfer their http://zoomus.lviv.ua/en/news/start/80/ship of shares to any other investor at any time. Shareholders’ equity comes from corporations dividing their ownership into stock shares. You have likely heard of the word entity in your life in some shape or form.

    Basic Accounting Equation: Formula, Calculation and Examples

    At the http://ledib.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=66%3Aactivities-of-the-component-improved-bds-market&catid=2%3Aactivities&Itemid=5&lang=en of the payment, the transaction is recorded as an asset, and as time passes, the asset is reduced and the expense is recognized. This is recorded in the accounting journal as a reduction in the accounts payable account and an increase in the cash account. Now that you are familiar with some basic concepts of the accounting equation and balance sheet let’s jump into some practice examples you can try for yourself.

    owner

    So, in other words, it is the universal equation in accounting, which forms the most basic principle of accounting. That is, assets must be equal to the sum of liabilities and shareholder’s equity or simply equity. By manipulating this equation, balance sheets in the account books of a company are maintained.

  • Retained earnings on balance sheet

    retained earnings

    The decision to retain the earnings or to distribute them among shareholders is usually left to the company management. However, it can be challenged by the shareholders through a majority vote because they are the real owners of the company.

    • The retained earnings calculation starts with a company’s net income, which is found by subtracting expenses from revenue.
    • It’s important to note that retained earnings are an accumulating balance within shareholder’s equity on the balance sheet.
    • If a company has negative retained earnings, it has accumulated deficit, which means a company has more debt than earned profits.
    • That said, a realistic goal is to get your ratio as close to 100 percent as you can, taking into account the averages within your industry.
    • The other key disadvantage occurs when your retained earnings are too high.

    It is often assumed that the retained profits are negative only if the net income is negative. But https://www.bookstime.com/ there are instances where the net income is positive, but the retained income is still negative.

    Join 41,000+ Fellow Sales Professionals

    The retained earnings balance or accumulated deficit balance is reported in the stockholders’ equity section of a company’s balance sheet. Retained earnings is the residual value of a company after its expenses have been paid and dividends issued to shareholders. Retained earnings represents the amount of value a company has “saved up” each year as unspent net income. Should the company decide to have expenses exceed revenue in a future year, the company can draw down retained earnings to cover the shortage. Retained earnings are left over profits after accounting for dividends and payouts to investors. If dividends are granted, they are generally given out after the company pays all of its other obligations, so retained earnings are what is left after expenses and distributions are paid. The dividend payout ratio is the measure of dividends paid out to shareholders relative to the company’s net income.

    Conversely, a growing business that needs to conserve cash will have more retained earnings. Equity typically refers to shareholders’ equity, which represents the residual value to shareholders after debts and liabilities have been settled. Operating income is a company’s profit after deducting operating expenses such as wages, depreciation, and cost of goods sold. If a company sells a product to a customer and the customer goes bankrupt, the company technically still reports that sale as revenue. Therefore, revenue is only useful in determining cash flow when considering the company’s ability to turnover its inventory and collect its receivables. During the same period, the total earnings per share was $13.61, while the total dividend paid out by the company was $3.38 per share. For an analyst, the absolute figure of retained earnings during a particular quarter or year may not provide any meaningful insight.

    How retained earnings are interpreted

    However, to be able to make a decision in which both the investor and the company are guaranteed of a win, the retained earnings past performance will be used to assess the trend. Thereafter, can they then decide whether to go for the dividends payout or opt for reinvestment for long term value. On any company’s balance sheet, retained earning is always recorded under the shareholders equity. Since it is standardized, the accumulated income is reported as a separate item in the company’s balance sheet. To calculate retained earnings, you are required to add net returns to the retained earnings of the previous period. Finally, if the balance of retained earnings is growing over time that might not be a good thing.

    • A comparison of the actual shareholder return with the return drawn from conventional analysis is revealing.
    • Hence, the company can raise its share price because an attractive balance sheet enhances stockholder equity, allowing the opportunity for a growth cycle in the business.
    • Operating income represents profit generated from Custom’s day-to-day business operations .
    • Those account balances are then transferred to the Retained Earnings account.
  • Capital and Revenue Expenditure and Receipts

    capital vs revenue

    The stock price is a reflection of the price that the public believes shares in the company to be worth at a point in time. Market cap can be a useful metric as it incorporates company reputation and public sentiment. Market capitalization, or market cap, is essentially the amount of money it would take to purchase an entire company based solely on its stock price. As the shares outstanding and the stock price fluctuate, so does the market cap. Capital expenditures are important for any company as they represent the investments made in the future of the business. This may include land, buildings, vehicles, furniture, office equipment, machinery, and franchise rights.

    Capital Expenditure vs Revenue Expenditure – Distinguish Between Capital Expenditure and Revenue Expenditure

    If an error is made and an item of capital expenditure (e.g., an equipment purchase) is recorded as revenue expenditure, the net income will be misstated for both the current and future period. Capital expenditures represent significant investments of capital that a company makes to maintain or, more often, to expand its business and generate additional profits. CapEx consists of the purchase of long-term assets, which are assets that accounting software for small business of 2022 last for more than one year but typically have a useful life of many years. Capital expenditures and revenue expenditures refer to money spent by companies to keep their day-to-day operations going. But there are some differences between these two, including how they’re used—whether that’s to make purchases for the short or long term. It’s not enough to say that capital expenditures are everything that revenue expenditures aren’t.

    Understanding the Difference Between Market Capitalization and Revenue?

    (d) Interest paid ` 40,000 on loan taken for construction of building and purchase of plant and machinery before the asset is ready for intended use is a capital expenditure. (d) Overhaul expenses (or repairs) ` 8,200 incurred to put a second hand car in working condition is a capital expenditure. (a) Overhaul expenses spent on second hand machinery purchased is a capital expenditure. These small costs will be listed as expenses in the current accounting period and will be offset against revenue immediately. They can also be reported as payments for property, plant, and equipment in a cash flow statement. This will help ensure that a business does not overspend on projects and put itself at financial risk.

    • Market capitalization, or market cap, is essentially the amount of money it would take to purchase an entire company based solely on its stock price.
    • When assets are put into use, they will gradually lose their value over time due to wear and tear, obsolescence, or changes in market conditions.
    • This is because it would now be considered used equipment, which is less attractive to buyers than newer models.

    CapEx Accounting Treatment

    capital vs revenue

    The costs of running the machinery in it, on the other hand, would be revenue expenditures. The main functions of accounting include the ascertainment of profit/loss for an accounting period and financial position as at the end of that period. The distinction between capital and revenue items is important both from the Income Statement (Profit and Loss Account) as well as the Position Statement (Balance Sheet) point of view. Similarly, the Balance Sheet will not give a true and fair view of the assets and equity of the enterprise till the useful life of the asset is over assuming that the asset is not sold earlier.

    Incorrectly recording a revenue expenditure as a capital expenditure has the effect of overstating assets. Examples of capital expenditure include purchasing or improving the property, buying new equipment or technology, and investing in research and development. Therefore, the purpose, as well as the nature, of the expenditure, must be considered when deciding whether an item is a capital or a revenue expenditure. On the other hand, the same labor cost subsequent to the operation of the machine is an item of revenue expenditure. Clearly, the purchase of a delivery truck is a capital expenditure, whereas an engine tune-up is a revenue expenditure. When expenditure results in a service whose benefits are consumed in the current period, it is called an item of revenue expenditure.

    These assets are generally meant for the long term (generally longer than a year) and include property, equipment, and vehicles. Some industries, such as the telecommunication sector and the oil/gas industry, have higher CapEx spending. Revenue is simply the amount of money flowing into a company as a result of the sale of goods and services. All overhead, administrative and operational expenses are deducted from this amount to arrive at the net profit.

    Revenue expenditures are current expenses and include ordinary repairs, maintenance, fuel, and other items required to keep assets in normal working condition. Since long-term assets provide income-generating value for a company for a period of years, companies are not allowed to deduct the full cost of the asset in the year the expense is incurred. Instead, they must recover the cost through year-by-year depreciation over the useful life of the asset.

    (d) Interest paid ` 40,000 on loan taken for construction of building and purchase of plant and machinery before the asset is ready for intended use. (e) Amount spent on replacement of worn part of a machine is a revenue expenditure. (a) Overhaul expenses of ` 10,000 spent on second hand machinery purchased.

    The resulting CapEx figure shows that in 2021, XYZ Corporation invested $12,250.00 in property, plant, and equipment. For the past 52 years, Harold Averkamp (CPA, MBA) hasworked as an accounting supervisor, manager, consultant, university instructor, and innovator in teaching accounting online. For the past 52 years, Harold Averkamp (CPA, MBA) has worked as an accounting supervisor, manager, consultant, university instructor, and innovator in teaching accounting online.

    This is because it would now be considered used equipment, which is less attractive to buyers than newer models. For example, after a company acquires a piece of equipment, it may be difficult to resell it at its original price. In cases like these, it may choose to take out a loan or postpone necessary expenses due to the lack of funding.

  • Expense Ratio Calculator For ETFs and Mutual Funds

    The difference in expense ratios resulted in a $9,835 difference in investment returns over 20 years. The expense ratio is pivotal for investors evaluating the cost-effectiveness of funds. A lower expense ratio means more of an investor’s money is working for them, potentially leading to higher returns. It is especially relevant in the comparison of passive index funds where cost is a major differentiator. The expense ratio calculator lets you see how different expenses at a target rate of return will affect your portfolio. You can get a personalized estimate of how different portfolio characteristics affect your annual expenses with our expense ratio calculator.

    • Traditionally, when evaluating different investment options, you would consider all of these factors together.
    • A lower expense ratio means more of an investor’s money is working for them, potentially leading to higher returns.
    • The offers that appear on this site are from companies that compensate us.
    • Tribal lenders are subject to tribal and certain federal laws while being immune from state law including usury caps.

    Which platforms offer the cheapest expense ratios?

    As mentioned above, if you have a 1% fee and you are expecting a 10% return on investment, you actually need an 11% return in order to get the 10% net return. You can compare two fees from two different funds to get an idea of their cost. At Money Stocker we strive to help you make smarter financial decisions. All of our content is completely impartial.Some of the links to our partners may earn us a commission, which helps us to keep the site running. The expense ratio signifies the proportion of a fund/ETF used for covering expenses and managerial salaries.

    How do you calculate the expense ratio?

    • By inputting your investment type, amount, expected return, and the fund’s expense ratio, you can calculate the final value of your investment, along with the effect of these fees.
    • The expense ratio signifies the proportion of a fund/ETF used for covering expenses and managerial salaries.
    • You will have to look through the fund’s prospectus or other documents (almost like they are hiding something…hmm).

    Calculate the expense ratio of mutual funds or ETFs to understand the annual fees charged relative to the assets under management. Our Expense Ratio Calculator helps investors make informed decisions by highlighting cost efficiencies and impacts on investment returns. Money Stocker is not a lender or lending partner and does not make loan or credit decisions. Money Stocker connects interested persons with a lender or lending partner from its network of approved lenders and lending partners.

    All loans are subject to the lender’s approval based on its own unique underwriting criteria. According to Morningstar, the average expense ratio for mutual funds was 0.44% in 2020, while the average expense ratio for ETFs was 0.19%. It doesn’t matter if you’re in the US or India, a percentage fee is the same branches of accounting everywhere. An expense ratio is the annual fee that an investment company charges its shareholders (you) to cover the costs of managing and operating the fund. Use this tool to make informed decisions and compare different investment options based on their long-term costs.

    How to Find a Fund’s Expense Ratio

    Use the expense what is commitment accounting ratio calculator to determine the annual fee that will be charged in the future and determine the break-even point of each fund in your portfolio so you can plan your future purchases. Actively managed funds typically have higher expense ratios than passively managed funds. A 1% expense ratio for an actively managed fund may be considered reasonable, while a 1% expense ratio for a passive index fund would be considered way too high. Use the Funds tab to calculate expense ratios based on fees of individual funds or to compare two or three funds against each other. The Investment Vehicles tab provides detailed information about investment vehicles such as mutual funds and ETFs.

    With actively managed funds, you have investment advisors, research teams, transaction costs and more. This calculator serves as a practical tool for investors looking to understand the cost implications of investing in different funds, promoting informed decision-making in portfolio management. Originally, the concept of an expense ratio emerged as investors sought transparent, standardized ways to compare the cost efficiency of various funds. It’s become a fundamental metric for assessing the value a fund offers, influencing investment decisions significantly. Hidden fees are one of the subtle factors that can chip away at your returns. These fees, often unnoticed, can accumulate significantly over time, affecting your overall investment growth.

    Tools dna

    In there, we highlight some globally diversified and affordable funds. This assumes that any added expense ratio does not add any potential for out performance. So use the expense ratio calculator to help you plan out your retirement income. Any estimates based on past performance do not a guarantee future performance, and prior to making any investment you should discuss your specific investment needs or seek advice from a qualified professional. Traditionally, when evaluating different investment options, you would consider all of these factors together. It’s more important in the active investing world to the three types of accounting and why they matter to your business go into this level of detail, but less important when going for a passive investing strategy.

    Expense Ratio Calculator – For ETFs and Mutual Funds

    Even small differences in the TER can lead to substantial reductions in final investment value due to compounding. When the expense ratio is higher, more money is retained by fund managers, leading to diminished returns for investors. But there are others including Fidelity, BlackRock and others that are all fine choices. Compare the expense ratios and their respective platform fees, and find the provider that works for you. We have a whole guide on the cost of passive investing (our preferred investment strategy).

    The Expense Ratio Calculator is designed to help you analyze your investment expenses and compare them against the broad market. The offers that appear on this site are from companies that compensate us. This compensation may impact how and where products appear on this site, including, for example, the order in which they may appear within the listing categories.

    Select the expense ratio from the results that best matches your goal of investing in funds with low expense ratios. – Some companies (typically those that charge very high expenses for their funds!) will not publish the fund’s expense ratio openly on the fund’s site. You will have to look through the fund’s prospectus or other documents (almost like they are hiding something…hmm). Please be aware that missing a payment or making a late payment can negatively impact your credit score. To protect yourself and your credit history, make sure you only accept loan terms that you can afford to repay. If you cannot make a payment on time, you should contact your lenders and lending partners immediately and discuss how to handle late payments.

    To bring these costs into the light, we’re excited to offer you our Expense Ratio Calculator. Our lenders offer loans with an Annual Percentage Rate (APR) of 35.99% and below. For qualified consumers, the maximum APR (including the interest rates plus fees and other costs) is 35.99%.

    For example, some funds may charge a sales charge or commission when you buy or sell shares. Others may charge a redemption fee if you sell shares within a specified time frame. Let’s say you invest $10,000 in a fund with an expense ratio of 1% and another $10,000 in a fund with an expense ratio of 0.5%.

    That’s why we put together this handy calculator to help you get a handle on how much money you would save and make by choosing different funds with different expense ratios. The expense ratio calculator makes it easy to get the information you need. Just enter the expense ratio and expense account data for the advisor-sold wrap and non-wrap programs and the expense ratio calculator will show you how much of your assets are being used in these advisement fees. To avoid hidden fees, you should carefully read the fund’s prospectus and other disclosure documents.

    What you’ll notice from playing around with the calculator is that small differences in fee amount to large differences in investment return over long periods. But that small difference in fee percentage can amount to hundreds of thousands in lost investment return. But if fund A also costs more over a year period, the higher potential returns may be negated by the costs. For example, if a fund has an expense ratio of 1%, and it earns a 10% return in a given year, the net return to you, the investor, would be 9%. Minimizing the expense ratio is vitally important to maximizing your investment return.