Getting Fit and Healthy While Freelancing

Influencer Nara Smith and husband Lucky Blue Smith welcome their third child

Amber Raiken — Thu, 18 Apr 2024 08:00:36 -0700

Models Nara Smith and Lucky Blue Smith are also parents to daughter Rumble Honey and son Slim Easy

Do I have a cold or hay fever? An expert explains how to tell the difference

Abi Jackson — Thu, 18 Apr 2024 04:35:38 -0700

A pharmacist talks us through the tell-tale differences.

Hillary Clinton comforts Kelly Clarkson as she tearfully recalls being hospitalised during pregnancies

Meredith Clark — Wed, 17 Apr 2024 09:37:43 -0700

Former US secretary of state and ‘The Kelly Clarkson Show’ host discussed Arizona’s 1864 law that bans nearly all abortions

Ms Rachel is fighting for New York parents as mayor slashes funding for early childhood education

Meredith Clark — Wed, 17 Apr 2024 08:08:16 -0700

American YouTube teacher Rachel Accurso - aka ‘Ms Rachel’ - has criticised budget cuts to New York City’s free 3-K and pre-K programs

8 effective ways to discipline your child without smacking

Lisa Salmon — Wed, 17 Apr 2024 05:56:28 -0700

As paediatricians call for a complete ban on smacking children, parenting experts tell Lisa Salmon how to control kids without using violence.

Pregnancy-associated osteoporosis (PAO) – what is it and what are the symptoms

Yolanthe Fawehinmi — Wed, 17 Apr 2024 04:31:18 -0700

The condition affects one in 100,000 people.

The Benefits of Exercising Outdoors

Dr. Daner — Tue, 26 Mar 2024 06:00:00 -0700

With Florida's picturesque landscapes and sunny weather, working out in the great outdoors both boosts your physical health and enhances your mental well-being. Before you enjoy the great benefits of exercising outdoors, learn how to do it safely and how to make sure the amount of sunshine you’re getting is good for you.

The Benefits of Exercising Outdoors

When you exercise outdoors, you immerse yourself in nature's beauty and fresh air, which may boost your mood while reducing stress levels. Changing scenery can help keep your workouts interesting, making it easier to stay motivated and consistent with your fitness routine.

Sunshine is a good source of vitamin D, essential for helping you maintain strong bones and a healthy immune system. Plus, the warmth of the sun can help relax muscles, improve flexibility, and boost circulation during your workout sessions. It also helps you work up an extra sweat.

Safety Tips for Working Out in the Sun

When it comes to exercising outdoors, safety should always be a top priority. Wear appropriate clothing and footwear to prevent injuries—we’d also recommend Foot Levelers custom orthotics for extra support. It's also essential to warm up properly before starting any intense physical activity, so make sure you leave time to stretch.

Stay hydrated by bringing a water bottle with you and taking regular sips throughout your workout. Dehydration can sneak up on you quickly, especially on a hot Broward County day. Listen to your body—when it tells you that it’s time to take a break, do it. Overexerting yourself can lead to fatigue or even heat-related illnesses. Be mindful of the signs of heat exhaustion, such as dizziness, nausea, or excessive sweating.

While sunshine can be good for you, too much is dangerous. Make sure that you apply sunscreen before working out in the sun, and bring a travel tube with you so you can reapply as needed. Even on days when there’s a lot of cloud cover, ultraviolet rays can still cause damage to your skin. Applying sunscreen with a high SPF not only prevents sunburn, but it reduces the risk of skin cancer.

Get Ready for Outdoor Exercise With Markson Chiropractic

Working out in the sunshine can be really good for you, but being prepared is critical. Markson Chiropractic can help you get ready to take advantage of all the great weather we get in Plantation, FL. Whether you’re looking to get a chiropractic adjustment or want to learn about using regenerative therapy for a knee injury, schedule an appointment online or call our offices at (954) 472-7975 to get started.

Tips to Improve Your Balance & Flexibility

Dr. Hoder — Tue, 19 Mar 2024 06:00:00 -0700

Are you looking to enhance your balance and flexibility? Whether you're an athlete, fitness enthusiast, or simply seeking better overall health, these tips and exercises target areas that can help improve performance and reduce your risk of injuries.

Tips to Improve Your Balance and Flexibility

If you want to improve your balance and flexibility, incorporating specific exercises into your routine can make a significant difference. One effective exercise is the single-leg stance, which helps improve stability and proprioception. Try standing on one leg for 30 seconds, then switch to the other side.

Balance boards or stability balls are also great tools to incorporate into your workouts. Markson Chiropractic offers the Power Plate, a training tool that can help you build better balance and flexibility. Using these devices challenges your core muscles and improves coordination. By engaging in regular sessions with equipment like the Power Plate, you can expect to see improvements in both balance and flexibility over time.

Simple bodyweight exercises like lunges, squats, and planks and also great for building balance and flexibility. These movements target multiple muscle groups simultaneously, helping to develop strength and stability.

There are other tips you should consider to improve balance and flexibility on a daily basis. Focus on maintaining good posture throughout the day, especially if you spend a lot of time working at a desk. By aligning your body properly, you can reduce the risk of falls and injuries while also promoting better balance over time. Plus, this will prevent back and neck pain.

Don't forget to stay hydrated throughout the day. Proper hydration can help keep your muscles limber, aiding in overall flexibility. Drinking enough fluid also helps prepare your body for exercise and can help reduce sugar cravings and fatigue.

Learn More Exercises for Balance & Flexibility at Markson Chiropractic

If you’re looking for more tips and exercises to help you improve your balance and flexibility, look no further than Markson Chiropractic in Plantation, FL. We offer Power Plate as well as exercise and nutrition counseling, massage therapy, and chiropractic care—all of which can help you feel better longer. To explore how these treatments can benefit you, schedule an appointment or call us at (954) 472-7975.

Canadian chiropractor leads the way for medical team in Canadian fencing

Marwa Mohamed — Fri, 15 Mar 2024 08:15:26 -0700

Dr. Nader Abdelkader shares his unique journey from being a competitive fencer to becoming a leading figure in chiropractic care for athletes, particularly in the sport of fencing.

Dr. Nader Abdelkader, DC was destined to be one of the greats in fencing.

His interest in fencing began early in life, sparked by his father, a national champion in Egypt in 1965 and Hall of Fame inductee. Instead of pushing him solely towards fencing, Dr. Abdelkader’s father encouraged him to try various sports, fostering a passion for athleticism during his adolescence.

“But I tried fencing and it stuck with me from a very young age,” shared Dr. Abdelkader.

Dr. Abdelkader’s journey in fencing led to competitive success throughout his adolescence and into his undergraduate years. While he eventually decided he needed to “retire” and focus more on his studies, fencing remained a passion.

“Fencing was my main motivation to get into chiropractic and I actually said that in my interview to get into the DC program and the sport fellowship program after as well.”
Dr. Abdelkader

As he was transitioning away from competitive fencing, he realized the need for musculoskeletal (MSK) experts in the fencing community. The knowledge gap for MSK care drove him into chiropractic. “When I or my teammates would get injured, no one would treat us. No one would even know how to treat us, let alone know what fencing is or what fencing biomechanics entailed.”

When injuries occurred, the lack of understanding about fencing-specific biomechanics often left him and other athletes without adequate treatment. At most, he recalls at national competitions, “there would be a paramedic, which is great for emergency level events. But they wouldn’t be able to assess a fencer if they blew out their knee, for example.”

Currently, in addition to his clinical chiropractic practice, he serves as the lead medical officer for Fencing Canada’s national team and chairs both the Sports Medicine Committee of Fencing Canada and the Medical and Health Committee for the Ontario Fencing Association. It was Dr. Abdelkader who founded these committees – before then, he mentions medical standards and safety protocols were overlooked.

What is fencing?

Fencing is a non-contact martial art that involves using (dull) weapons to hit and score against your opponent.
It is an individualistic sport but there are team events where you accumulate points together through individual matches. Fencing is practiced worldwide and is an Olympic sport.
There are also different kinds of weapons (swords) that are used in fencing: the epee, foil, and saber.
Each weapon has different targets when being used. The foil is what people used in duel situations, a saber is used more for slashing, and the epee allows for the entire body to be the target.
The weapons are really dull in fencing and fencers wear uniform constructed with Kevlar so it can withstand a lot of force. While the weapons don’t penetrate the suit, it can still hurt because of the stabbing and slashing motions.
You fence with one hand (you either remain right- or left-handed, you do not switch) during a match.

“Most of the injuries we see in fencing are atraumatic injuries – overuse type of injuries. Unlike football or hockey, for example, where there is a traumatic event where a player is involved in a collision – the cause and mechanism are quite clear most of the time. It also usually makes the treatment plan quite clear,” explains Dr. Abdelkader. “For fencers, they’re mostly overuse injuries, so when we ask what happened, they say, ‘I don’t know, I was just fencing.’ I have to investigate, and it makes it a bit tougher from a chiropractic perspective because you must understand the etiology, the cause of someone’s pain or injury, because it’s not as clear as if they fell or something like that.”

Additionally, he highlighted the scarcity of scientific literature on fencing compared to more mainstream sports, which further complicates the process of developing tailored treatment strategies. Unlike symmetrical athletes such as runners or swimmers, fencers possess unique asymmetrical characteristics due to the nature of their sport. This imbalance presents a challenge for diagnosis and treatment, as traditional approaches may not accurately address fencing-specific issues.

Dr. Abdelkader has also observed that a parallel between fencers and the typical office worker he has treated is overuse. “Fencers have overuse injuries from doing something asymmetrical all the time and not to the best of the biomechanics, whereas the average population is repetitively overusing their muscles from poor posture slouching over a keyboard. However, they’re different in that one population is overuse of working and the other is overuse of not working. I’m trying to correct fencers and calm them down, while with office workers, I’m trying to get them moving differently.”

So, as Dr. Abdelkader explains, similarly to visiting a family physician or dentist, as a primary healthcare provider, a chiropractor will do an initial assessment, regardless of if you are in pain. The assessment helps identify underlying issues, identifies risk factors and potential dysfunctions, and informs a tailored treatment plan. This proactive approach promotes long-term musculoskeletal health and overall well-being.

“My general advice is to get an assessment – pain or no pain – and see what kind of dysfunction and diagnoses are associated with that assessment and go for an appropriate treatment plan based on that diagnosis. Don’t wait!”

The post Canadian chiropractor leads the way for medical team in Canadian fencing appeared first on Canadian Chiropractic Association (CCA).

Try Running Shoe Inserts This Spring

Dr. Markson — Tue, 12 Mar 2024 06:00:00 -0700

Are you ready to lace up your running shoes and hit the pavement this spring? Before you take off on your next run, consider the benefits of wearing customized orthotic shoe inserts. Whether you're a seasoned marathoner or just starting out on your fitness journey, orthotics offer better comfort while running and lower your risk of pain and injury. Let’s explore the benefits of adding Foot Levelers shoe inserts to your running shoes.

The Benefits of Wearing Custom Inserts in Your Running Shoes

Custom orthotics are specially designed shoe inserts made to perfectly fit your foot. By wearing custom orthotics in your running shoes, you can improve your biomechanics and reduce strain on muscles and joints. This can help alleviate common issues such as plantar fasciitis, shin splints, and runner’s knee pain.

One of the key benefits of custom orthotics is their ability to distribute pressure more evenly across the soles of your feet, promoting better balance and stability while running. Additionally, they can help correct any imbalances in your gait pattern, leading to a smoother and more efficient stride. Adding custom orthotic inserts to a top-quality running shoe can have you setting personal bests in no time.

Explore Foot Levelers Shoe Inserts for Running

Foot Levelers is one of the industry’s top custom orthotic brands, and it offers several shoe inserts specifically designed for running and other sports. One of its latest products is the XP3® Sports Collection, which includes custom orthotics for skiing, golfing, and playing tennis. The XP3® Run and XP3® Run Distance cater to the needs of joggers, runners, and marathoners with lightweight materials and maximum shock absorption. Thanks to MPAX® Technology, these inserts absorb up to 90% of impact on contact, can increase stride distance, and even save energy for greater endurance.

Try Custom Shoe Inserts for Running in Broward County, FL

Markson Chiropractic is thrilled to offer Foot Levelers custom shoe inserts for running, walking, and even enjoying a more comfortable workday. To learn more about these wonderful products and how they can help relieve pain and improve performance, schedule your appointment online, call us at (954) 472-7975, or visit our offices in Plantation, FL.

How to Treat Runner's Knee & Prevent Pain

Dr. Hoder — Tue, 05 Mar 2024 06:00:00 -0800

One of the brilliant parts about living in Plantation, FL, is being able to get outside and go for a run all throughout the year. But you’ll have a hard time enjoying that warm Florida weather if your knee is sore after running. Soreness and pain may be a sign that you have runner’s knee, and there are several ways you can treat and prevent it.

How to Treat and Prevent Runner’s Knee Pain

Get Your Rest Between Runs & Be Sure to Stretch

If you’re experiencing pain consistent with runner’s knee or want to prevent it, resting is one of the best things you can do. That may be easier said than done if you thrive on running every day, but taking a day to rest every now and then gives your knees a break and helps prevent injuries. Stretching out is also a great way to prevent runner’s knee pain, so make sure you do it before and after your runs and on your rest days.

Use an Ice Pack

If your knee is sore after running, grab an ice pack or a bag of frozen vegetables from the freezer. Applying a cold compress for 15-30 minutes after a long run helps ease inflammation and can prevent pain caused by runner’s knee. Making this part of your regular post-run routine can keep pain and soreness at bay and ensure better recovery.

Try Regenerative Medicine for Runner’s Knee

If you have a severe case of runner’s knee, getting around can be hard, never mind trying to get back to running on a regular basis. Regenerative medicine is an innovative treatment that can help you heal naturally, reduce pain and swelling, and prevent future injuries. Regenerative therapy is one of the most exciting services we offer at Markson Chiropractic, and we’d recommend checking it out if you have a knee injury.

Is Your Knee Sore After Running? Visit Markson Chiropractic

When your knee is sore after running, rest and an ice pack can get you back to normal. But if you’re still dealing with pain after a few days, schedule your appointment at Markson Chiropractic in Plantation, FL. We offer treatments like regenerative therapy, massage, and chiropractic care to help prevent issues like runner’s knee and keep pain and injuries at bay. If you’d to learn more, call us at (954) 472-7975.

Proudly launching the Women’s Chiropractic Caucus

Simone Lai — Mon, 04 Mar 2024 11:15:25 -0800

The Canadian Chiropractic Association (CCA) is proud to announce the launch of the Women’s Chiropractic Caucus (WCC).

Led and co-chaired by Dr. Kathryn Vardy (Newfoundland) and Dr. Natalie Carrington (Alberta), this initiative marks a significant step in fostering a supportive environment for women chiropractors to thrive in their careers across Canada, while also amplifying their voices and contributions within the field. The WCC will also advocate on behalf of women’s unique neuromusculoskeletal (NMSK) health issues to improve access to chiropractic care for females in Canada.

“The WCC represents a significant milestone in the CCA’s ongoing commitment to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion within the chiropractic profession. By initiating this caucus, we acknowledge there is room for the profession to grow by providing a platform for women chiropractors to connect, collaborate, and advocate for change,” said CCA CEO, Dr. Ayla Azad.

Dr. Carrington has been serving the Diamond Valley communities in Alberta for 30 years and is the Past Board Chair of the Chiropractic Association of Alberta. Dr. Vardy is the co-founder of the Kinetic Chiropractic and Health Clinic in Torbay, Newfoundland and Labrador. Both will also be on a Women’s Caucus panel at the CCA’s National Convention and Tradeshow in April (get your tickets here!).

Objectives of the Women’s Chiropractic Caucus:

• To provide women chiropractors access to relevant information and mentorship from diverse chiropractic practices, research centres and geographic regions across Canada.
• To foster meaningful dialogue between mentors and mentees, while affording the opportunity to gain valuable guidance and career advice including balancing competing demands of family and business.
• Being champions of improved access to chiropractic care to address female’s unique neuromusculoskeletal health issues for females throughout their lifecycle.

“It has been an honour to be a co-chair and launch the CCA’s Women’s Chiropractic Caucus. This caucus is not just about creating a space for networking and support; it’s about dismantling barriers, challenging stereotypes, and driving real change within our profession across Canada. By coming together, we can advocate for policies that promote gender equality, provide mentorship opportunities to support career advancement, and ultimately create a more inclusive and equitable profession for all,” shared Dr. Carrington.

In recent years, the Canadian Chiropractic Research Database (an in-depth survey of the chiropractors in the CCA) has shown a remarkable increase in the number of women entering and excelling in the profession. The 2022 total base size of Canadian chiropractors was composed of 55 per cent men and 45 per cent women – a significant change from the 63 per cent male and 37 per cent female respondent base in 2016. Despite this progress, women chiropractors continue to face unique challenges and barriers to advancement. This caucus serves as a platform for women chiropractors to collaborate and empower one another, to help create and foster a more inclusive and equitable profession.

The need for the WCC is also emphasized by the lack of NMSK research focusing on female physiology.

“When it comes to healthcare research, we have to remember female anatomy and physiology is different than that of a male; but often treatment plans are created through this kind of lens due to the lack of research that is dedicated to female physiology,” shares co-chair Dr. Vardy. “For example, the female body experiences hormonal fluctuations through one’s life, whether that is during puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, or menopause. Any of these single stages may result in critical changes in one’s body. Bone health, especially after menopause is also a health concern that significantly impacts a woman as she ages.”

When it comes to neuromusculoskeletal health, the list of different needs between males and females from a physiological and social perspective continues, explains Dr. Vardy. For example, it can become even more difficult to navigate NMSK healthcare when the condition is also layered with other personal situations such as increased mental load, balancing work/home life, as well as societal pressures.

“Change the conversation” and “Support our members” are two of four objectives in the CCA’s current strategic plan. The launch of the CCA’s Women’s Chiropractic Caucus is a symbol of progress toward the advancement and transformation within chiropractic that will benefit clinicians and patients.

“As a woman in leadership, a woman of colour, a mother, daughter, wife, friend, a business owner, a student, a teacher – all these intersections have enriched my practice as a chiropractor. The creation of the Women’s Chiropractic Caucus will not only empower women chiropractors to thrive but also enhance our profession as a whole. Together, we can create a more equitable and inclusive future for chiropractic care in Canada,” shared Dr. Azad.

Members of the Women’s Chiropractic Caucus

Dr. Janine Taylor
Dr. Kimberly Castle
Dr. Chelsie Goulet
Dr. Saima Hossain
Dr. Nardine Bekhit
Dr. Joyce Fu
Dr. Stephanie Bonn
Dr. Lauren Scott
Dr. Katelyn Foster
Dr. Virsika Yogeswaran
Dr. Michelle Campbell
Dr. Kyla Meadley
Dr. Carol Ann Weis
Dr. Patricia Tavares

The post Proudly launching the Women’s Chiropractic Caucus appeared first on Canadian Chiropractic Association (CCA).

The Benefits of Trying Physical Therapy

Dr. Daner — Tue, 27 Feb 2024 06:00:00 -0800

Are your 2024 workout goals being held back by an injury or chronic pain? The doctors at Markson Chiropractic in Plantation, FL, would love to introduce you to the benefits of physical therapy. With physical therapy, we can help you achieve your exercise and fitness goals, overcome pain from sciatica, and get your year back on the right track.

The Benefits of Trying Physical Therapy in 2024

If you’ve been injured, whether it’s from exercise or an accident, physical therapy can help you heal without surgery or medication. Our team of physical therapists can assess the severity of your injury and help you work through it so you can get back to 100%. We’re experienced working with patients dealing with sports injuries like tennis elbow, runner’s knee, torn rotator cuffs, and more.

If you have a chronic condition like sciatica, arthritis, or a degenerative disc, a physical therapist can help reduce pain levels and restore function. Physical therapy provides a respite from pain so that you can exercise with confidence, helping you build strength and keep pain at a minimum. And if your sciatic pain prevents you from getting sleep, physical therapy can help you get a good night’s rest.

Whatever the cause of your pain or injury may be, visiting a physical therapist can help. But one of the best benefits of trying physical therapy is being able to take it home with you. Your PT will recommend stretches and exercises you can do on your own time, letting you continue making progress beyond your appointments.

And if you’re already a patient at Markson Chiropractic, you can couple the benefits of physical therapy with many of the services you already use, like massage therapy and chiropractic care. Making physical therapy part of a multi-front approach to holistic wellness means you can look forward to faster injury recovery, less pain from sciatica and other issues, and an easier time getting back to exercise and other activities you love.

Try Physical Therapy at Markson Chiropractic in Plantation, FL

Our team at Markson Chiropractic loves sharing the benefits of physical therapy with our friends in Broward County. Whether you want relief from sciatic pain or help getting back on track with exercise, physical therapy and other holistic care services may be able to help. To learn more and get started, schedule your appointment online, call (954) 472-7975, or visit our offices in Plantation, FL.

Regenerative Therapy for Injury Recovery

Dr. Markson — Tue, 20 Feb 2024 06:00:00 -0800

If you’re hurt and considering surgery but don’t want to be on the shelf for spring and summer, Markson Chiropractic is excited to offer stem cell therapy in Plantation, FL. Regenerative therapy is a non-surgical approach to injury recovery and pain relief, and it’s helped people in Broward County overcome knee, back, and shoulder issues. Let’s explore what regenerative medicine has done for our patients—and what it can do for you.

Why Try Regenerative Therapy for Injury Recovery

When you’ve been seriously injured, whether it’s on the job or in the gym, you may think that surgery is your best recourse. Regenerative therapy can be an effective alternative for injury recovery without the potentially debilitating side effects. Surgery isn’t a sure thing, and complications may require additional procedures. Even when surgery works as planned, your recovery time can be weeks or even months. And there’s the matter of the cost, which can take even longer to pay off.

On the other hand, regenerative therapy can naturally help you heal from knee and back injuries faster, recover from chronic pain, and even repair broken bones. Most will experience no side effects after treatment and notice a positive difference within weeks.

We eagerly recommend stem cell therapy for injury recovery and pain relief because we’ve seen its impact. Gloria H. opted for regenerative therapy for pain in her right knee, and she tells us that her issue was solved after two weeks. In her own words: “Stem cell therapy is the best decision I ever made."

Mike T. turned to stem cell therapy after trying several different treatments for tennis elbow to no avail. But regenerative medicine worked, and it helped him get back to doing what he loves.

“To my amazement, my elbow improved dramatically,” he says. “Over the course of a few months, I was able to work out with weights and play tennis with little to no issue.”

Stem Cell Therapy for Injury Recovery in Plantation, FL

Before you resign yourself to surgery for an injury, consider all your options. We’d love the opportunity to show you why regenerative therapy may be just what you need to recover from knee injuries, tennis elbow, rotator cuff tears, and other issues. If you’d like a consultation, schedule an appointment online, call us at (954) 472-7975, or visit Markson Chiropractic in Plantation, FL.

Disc experts: How this Vancouver chiropractic duo provides support to patients on and off the field

Simone Lai — Tue, 20 Feb 2024 06:00:00 -0800

From the sidelines of USA Ultimate Club Championship (ultimate frisbee) in San Diego, California, CCA members Dr. Jack Li and Dr. Stephen Mogatas were itching to sneak into play.

The championship was full of bids (an attempt to block or catch an opponent’s disc), layouts (flying through the air in an attempt to catch a disc) and skies (when opposing players jump to catch a disc, with one player jumping significantly higher to make the catch). Ultimate frisbee, typically referred to only as “ultimate,” is a fast-paced and non-contact team sport played with a flying disc (frisbee). The game combines elements of soccer, basketball, and football, with an emphasis on athleticism and strategy. With any high-level sporting event, injuries were likely to occur, and it was Dr. Li and Dr. Mogatas’s job to help these players stay healthy and safe on the field.

“We are really lucky that we have a profession that we can tailor to something that we love like ultimate. It’s not actually a requirement to work in Jointworks, but it just so happens that our entire staff plays!” shared Dr. Mogatas. Jointworks Chiropractic is a multidisciplinary clinic based in Vancouver, BC.

These Canadian chiropractors know what it’s like to be sidelined due to injury which they say makes their practice even more meaningful.

“I started playing ultimate when I was grade ten and didn’t really understand my body. I was just playing the sport and the coaches didn’t having much experience with the training aspect. But I got injured in grade 11,” recalls Dr. Li. “The clinic that I went to was actually Jointworks and there I saw Dr. Janey Jim. She showed me ways to get back on the field a lot quicker and taught me how to feel more confident and capable because being on the sideline was not fun.”

The positive experience with injury support and healthy physical maintenance is what inspired Dr. Li to pursue a career in chiropractic.

“This is what I want to do! To combine my love for ultimate and to continue to strive to give back in the sense that I also don’t like being on the sideline and I want to help people get back on their feet a lot faster.”

—

“Funny enough, Dr. Jim, who is also my wife, was also my influence… although that was 15-20 years earlier,” shared Dr. Mogatas. “I was a registered nurse (RN) before but seeing what Dr. Jim was doing, what she was learning and being more exposed to it, I decided to apply to chiropractic college and basically follow through with what I wanted to do for a long time but never thought I could.”

Dr. Mogatas has also been playing ultimate for many years and has even been the chiropractor for Team Canada’s ultimate cohort at the World Games in 2013, 2017 and 2022. Over the years and with their connection to ultimate leagues and teams, Jointworks became a sponsor to provide chiropractic care to teams like the University of British Columbia team and other Vancouver-based clubs that eventually feed into national level teams.

With his background as an RN, Dr. Mogatas provides an evolving philosophy of a team approach to healthcare as hands-on, manual therapy, exercise therapy, and education all work together to support a patient-focused approach.

While he was in nursing, he was able to support ultimate medical teams with various wound care and nursing type tasks on the sidelines. “When I became a chiropractor and developed all these skills, I thought who better than to bring it to this community?” There’s a mutual understanding of what it’s like being injured and stuck on the sideline. And now, his scope of care includes issues like concussion management and other musculoskeletal ailments.

“Every day, there’s some sort of ultimate player here whether they used to play and now they’re raising a family or they’re a young prospect that’s trying to make that national team or it’s a four-five-time national team captain, and it just brightens up the day for sure!”

The post Disc experts: How this Vancouver chiropractic duo provides support to patients on and off the field appeared first on Canadian Chiropractic Association (CCA).

The top 6 common myths about chiropractic treatment

Simone Lai — Thu, 15 Feb 2024 08:21:34 -0800

Originally published April 2018

Many Canadians are curious about the role that chiropractors play in the healthcare system, and what benefit chiropractic care may have to their health. While you can always find a chiropractor in your community to discuss your specific needs, today we’re busting some commonly shared chiropractic myths:

Chiropractors can only treat back pain

Chiropractors are musculoskeletal experts and are trained in assessing, diagnosing, treating and preventing biomechanical disorders that originate from the muscular, skeletal and nervous system. In addition to the evidence that supports chiropractic care in managing musculoskeletal complaints of the spine, there is also evidence that it supports chiropractic management of the extremities, headaches and pain¹^,². Chiropractors are also able to provide lifestyle counselling about nutrition, fitness and ergonomic advice, as well as prescribe rehabilitative stretches and exercises, among others that may be useful in managing or preventing a variety of health conditions. The health of your musculoskeletal system doesn’t just start with a healthy spine, you need to be fully aware of your body to maintain a well-rounded healthy lifestyle!

A medical doctor must refer you to a chiropractor

In all provinces in Canada, chiropractors are primary care providers, which means you can access them directly. Due to the extensive training of chiropractors as diagnosticians, chiropractors will perform a comprehensive assessment to help determine a diagnosis or clinical impressions. Depending on the outcome, the chiropractor can discuss a course of care or refer to another healthcare professional, as needed. In January 2024, the Canadian Life and Health Insurance Association (CLHIA), which represents Canada’s life and health insurance companies, issued an industry statement on the requirements of physician referrals. The statement outlines the industry’s standard practice to not require a physician referral for the reimbursement of eligible treatments provided by paramedical providers. In many cases, this should allow for easier access to paramedical services.

Once you see a chiropractor you have to keep going back

This is false. When seeking care from a chiropractor, they will perform an assessment including a history and physical examination to determine the cause of the pain or dysfunction. From these observations, a diagnosis will be provided, and a treatment plan developed in collaboration with the patient – according to their needs and goals. The treatment plan may recommend a number of subsequent visits to see how the patient responds to care and schedule re-evaluations when indicated. Depending on the patient and the condition, the recommended course of care may vary. Ultimately, the decision to continue care is yours. As a patient, if you have questions or concerns about care, you should feel comfortable to ask the chiropractor for more information on the recommendations made and address any concerns. The care plan should be part of a shared decision-making between the patient and practitioner.

Chiropractors are not ‘real’ doctors

Chiropractors are regulated in all 10 Canadian provinces and are designated to use the title “doctor” similar to physicians, optometrists, and dentists after completing the extensive Doctor of Chiropractic degree program. The professions that are recognized to use the “doctor” title have extensive training in their area of expertise that allows them to be diagnosticians – to provide a diagnosis.

There is no evidence to support the effectiveness of chiropractic care

The chiropractic profession and researchers have invested significant resources to build a robust body of evidence studying the impact of manual therapies on musculoskeletal conditions. For example, spinal and joint manipulation has been shown to be effective treatment for acute and chronic musculoskeletal conditions, like back pain. In fact, spinal manipulative therapy (SMT) is recommended as first line intervention for back pain in numerous clinical practice guidelines including the Bone and Joint Decade Task Force,³ the American College of Physicians and American Pain Society⁴ as well as Britain’s National Institute of Health and Care Excellence.⁵

Adjustments are painful

In general, adjustments or joint manipulations do not hurt. In fact, many patients report immediate pain relief. Patients may be nervous about the ‘cracking’ or popping sound that may occur during an adjustment. In a 2015 study, Real-Time Visualization of Joint Cavitation’, authors used functional MRI images to identify that the cracking sound experienced is associated with the rapid creation of a gas-filled cavity within the synovial fluid (the liquid substance that lubricates the joints) when the joint is separated⁶. As and example, think of cracking your knuckles!

A bonus misconception about chiropractic: Chiropractors only perform adjustments.

This is false. In addition to adjustments (also referred to as joint manipulations), chiropractors also provide other manual and hands-on therapies including soft tissue therapy such as instrument assisted soft tissue manipulation (IASTM), acupuncture, customized therapeutic stretches and exercises, nutritional/dietary counselling, patient education, and more. As mentioned earlier, the recommended course of care will depend on the patient and condition.

Asking questions about your health and treatment options is especially important. You are a partner in your care and your participation is critical to helping us provide the best care to meet your goal. If you have any questions beyond this blog about chiropractic treatment, visit a chiropractor in your area.

Find a Chiropractor near you

References

1. McHardy, A., Hoskins, W., Pollard, H., Onley, R., & Windsham, R. (2008). Chiropractic treatment of upper extremity conditions: a systematic review. Journal of manipulative and physiological therapeutics, 31(2), 146-159.

2. Bryans, R., Descarreaux, M., Duranleau, M., Marcoux, H., Potter, B., Reugg, R., White, E., & , (2011). Evidence-based guidelines for the chiropractic treatment of adults with headache. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, 34(5), 274-289.

3. Haldeman, S., Carroll, L., Cassidy, J., Schubert, J., & Nygren, A. (2008). The bone and joint decade 2000–2010 task force on neck pain and its associated disorders: Executive summary. Spine, 33(4S), S5-S7.

4. Chou, E., Qaseem, A., Snow, V., Casey, D., Cross, T., Shekelle, P., & Owens, D. (2007). Diagnosis and treatment of low back pain: A joint clinical practice guideline from the American College of Physicians and the American Pain Society. Annals of Internal Medicine, 147(7), 478-491.

5. National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence. (2009). Low back pain early management of persistent non-specific low back pain. Londres, Angleterre.

6. Kawchuk, GN., Fryer J., Jaremko JL, Zeng H, Rowe L., Thompson R. (2015). Real-Time Visualization of Joint Cavitation. Plos One, 10(4), e0119470.

The post The top 6 common myths about chiropractic treatment appeared first on Canadian Chiropractic Association (CCA).

Make Time for Chiropractic Massage in 2024

Dr. Hoder — Tue, 13 Feb 2024 06:00:00 -0800

Are you trying to do more to support your health in 2024? You should give chiropractic massage a try. Techniques like deep tissue and shiatsu massage are incredibly therapeutic, melting stress away and speeding up healing. With the help of the massage therapists at Markson Chiropractic in Plantation, FL, you can stay on track to make 2024 your best year yet.

The Perks of Trying Chiropractic Massage in 2024

Chiropractic massage offers several benefits to help you be at your best in the year ahead. Regular massages can be therapeutic on multiple levels, supporting your physical, mental, and emotional well-being. The boost you get from seeing a masseuse can help you relax, get more rest, and perform better at the gym.

The benefits of chiropractic massage make it well worth finding time in your busy schedule for an appointment. And if your budget is a concern, your massages may be covered by your insurance policy. Techniques like shiatsu and deep tissue massage often fall under chiropractic care because of their therapeutic nature.

Chiropractic massage can be helpful if you have chronic pain or an injury. During your initial consultation, our massage therapists gather information on your issues and needs so that they can better address the underlying problems. This information allows them to leverage techniques like shiatsu massage to help you heal faster.

Furthermore, you can pair shiatsu, deep tissue, and other types of massage with other treatments we offer at Markson Chiropractic. You can enhance the benefits of therapeutic massage with regular chiropractic care, IV Nutrition Therapy, and our Real Healthcare concept.

Get a Therapeutic Shiatsu or Deep Tissue Massage in Plantation, FL

In addition to the therapeutic benefits, one of the best perks of getting a shiatsu or deep tissue massage is feeling good. A chiropractic massage can boost your mood and energy to help you get through your week and make the most of the weekend. To experience what a massage can do for yourself, schedule your appointment at Markson Chiropractic in Plantation, FL.

You'll Love What a Chiropractor Can Do

Dr. Markson — Tue, 06 Feb 2024 06:00:00 -0800

February makes us think of love, and when we think of love at Markson Chiropractic, we think of chiropractic care. That’s because going to a chiropractor can have big benefits when it comes to caring for yourself and supporting your physical, mental, and emotional well-being. We know that once you experience what a chiropractor can do, you’ll love it, too.

What Can a Chiropractor Do to Help You in 2024?

One of the most important benefits of going to a chiropractor is protecting your spinal health. Your chiropractor adjusts your spine to remove subluxations and restore proper alignment, which can help relieve bulging disc pain, among other things. Because the spinal cord is also so important for the central nervous system, chiropractic care helps improve the flow of signals from the brain, which can, in turn, help with stress management and mood improvement.

But that’s not all that a chiropractor can do when it comes to bettering your well-being. If you have joint pain, sciatica, or arthritis, regular chiropractic adjustments can help bring relief so that you can enjoy more good days. Once you start going to see your chiropractor regularly, you’ll realize that your pain is less severe and less frequent. This can help you get back to being more active, which comes with its own health benefits.

You’ll especially love what a chiropractor can do when you work with the team at Markson Chiropractic. Not only can we provide adjustments, but we also offer exercise and nutritional advice, regenerative medicine, and IV Nutrition Therapy. Working together with regular chiropractic treatment, these forms of care can help you be at your best in 2024.

Enjoy the Benefits of Going to the Chiropractor in Plantation, FL

If you want to feel better and be better, there’s not a bad time to start making a habit of going to the chiropractor. To experience what a chiropractor can do for you, schedule your appointment at Markson Chiropractic online, call us at (954) 472-7975, or just stop in and visit our offices in Plantation, FL.

Make Daily Stretching Part of Your Routine

Dr. Daner — Tue, 30 Jan 2024 06:00:00 -0800

Being your best in 2024 comes down to building a robust routine. Eating well, exercising, self-care, and proper rest are all key pieces of the puzzle. But if you’re doing all that and not stretching on the daily, your routine is missing something very important. Let’s explore how stretching can help you in the new year whether your goal is weight loss, building strength, or just feeling better.

Why Make Stretching Part of Your Daily Routine

A daily stretching routine is vital for everyone, but it’s even more important if you’re working out more in the new year. You need to stretch before workouts to loosen up your muscles and after to help your body cool down. In between gym days, stretching keeps your muscles limber and may even be able to reduce delayed onset muscle soreness. If you maintain a daily stretching routine, you can keep up with the demands of your fitness and weight loss goals.

But no matter your level of physical activity, stretching should be part of your daily routine. Stretching in the morning helps wake up your muscles and gives you a quick energy boost that can snowball into a productive day. Stretching during lunch can help you shake off the fog, stop back pain from sitting at a desk for so long, and get your back into the game to close strong. And stretching before bed allows your body to wind down so you can fall asleep and stay asleep.

Like other kinds of exercise, there’s a lot of variety when it comes to stretches. You can easily mix up your daily stretching routine to focus on areas like your back, neck, or knees. The right mix of stretches can help you improve balance and flexibility, increase strength, heal faster, and build better posture.

Markson Chiropractic Can Help You Create a Daily Stretching Routine & More

If your goals for 2024 include weight loss, better fitness, or less stress, a daily stretching routine can help you get to where you want to be. And so can your friends at Markson Chiropractic in Plantation, FL. From chiropractic care and massage therapy to physical rehabilitation and regenerative medicine, we offer treatment and lifestyle advice that can help put you on the path to a better you. Let’s get the ball rolling—schedule your appointment online or call our offices at (954) 472-7975.

Get Your Freelance Tax Information Ready Now! The IRS Announces Tax Return Filing Starts Jan 29, 2024

Anonymous — Thu, 25 Jan 2024 07:55:51 -0800

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) has set Monday, Jan. 29, 2024, as the official start date of the nation's 2024 tax season when the agency will begin accepting and processing 2023 tax returns. The time is now to review deductions and start organizing your business records for the 2024 filing season in order to get ahead of the April 15 tax filing deadline.

Expecting a freelance tax refund? Start organizing your tax return documents to expedite the tax preparation process and get any potential refund sooner:

Gather and organize tax records including prior year tax return, this includes Social Security numbers, Individual Taxpayer Identification Numbers, Adoption Identification Numbers and, if you have one, an Identity Protection Personal Identification Number.
A listing of the estimated tax payments you made to the IRS and other state and local entities (list out the entity which paid, the date paid, and the amount paid).
1099s, W-2s, and any other documentation related to your freelance income. All freelance income must be reported, even if you don’t receive supporting documentation.
Statements for any qualified retirement contributions you made into a Simplified Employee Pension Plan (SEP) IRA or other pre-tax retirement investment vehicles.
Receipts for any deductions that you claim for supplies, meals, travel and other business-related expenses.
See the list of potential deductions below for other documentation you may need to complete your freelance tax preparation.

If you expect a tax refund, the easiest way to check your refund's status is by using Where's My Refund? on IRS.gov or the IRS2Go app. Under the federal Protecting Americans from Tax Hikes (PATH) Act, the IRS cannot issue Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) and Additional Child Tax Credit (ACTC) refunds before mid-February.

16 Key Freelance Tax Deductions to Reduce Your 2023 Self-employed Tax Obligations

As you begin planning for tax filing, review the list below to ensure you are getting all the business deductions to which you are entitled. As always, if you need assistance, speak with a self-employed tax professional.

If you are expecting to owe taxes on your 2023 freelance tax return, you will want to reduce your taxable income as much as possible with eligible business deductions. This list is a good starting reference point:

1. Startup costs - deductible up to $5,000

Small business owners may take a startup cost deduction of up to $5,000 in startup costs in their first year of business. This can include legal fees, employee training, and market research. You can only take this $5,000 deduction ‌if your total startup costs are $50,000 or less. If your startup costs exceed $50,000, you'll see a reduction in your allowable deduction. If your startup costs are over $55,000, you won't be able to take the deduction.

2. Home office - deductible varies

Small business owners who work from home or have a dedicated home office can take this deduction. The deduction amount depends on the percentage of the home you use for business purposes. There are two methods for determining your home office deduction:

Simplified method (Square feet of your home office x $5.00). This method is the easiest for home office deductions. You can deduct $5.00 per square foot of your home office space, but only up to $1,500. So, even if your home office is over 300 square feet ($5 x 300 square feet = $,1500), you can only take $1,500 as a deduction.
Standard method (Square feet of your home office / total home square feet) x home expenses). The standard method is a bit more complicated, but it also means you can deduct more expenses. With the standard home office deduction, you’ll need to keep track of all your home expenses. This includes the cost of home repairs and upkeep, as well as rent and utilities.

Using this method for example, say your home office is 300 square feet and your home is 1,500 square feet. Your total home expenses for the year were $10,000. Your deduction would be $2,000, or (300 / 1,500) x $10,000. forget that you can also deduct any home office supplies and furniture you.

3. Retirement plan contributions.

Making contributions to retirement accounts is a smart move for your financial future - and they are business write offs.. The amount you can deduct depends on the type of plan you have or set up. For example, the limits for 2023 are:

401(k) plans: $22,500 ($30,000 if you’re 50 or older)
Simple IRAs: $15,500 ($19,000 if you’re 50 or older)
Traditional IRAs: $6,500 ($7,500 if you’re 50 or older)

Matching contributions: Those contributions made to your employees’ accounts are tax deductible, to a limit. The total limit for a 401(k), including employee and employer contributions, is $66,000 for 2023 ($73,500 if you’re 50 or older).

4. Asset Depreciation.

Depreciation is a tax break that allows businesses to write off the cost of certain assets over time. This can include equipment, vehicles, and property. For most assets, nearly the entire purchase price is tax deductible over time. By spreading out the cost of these assets over several years, businesses can reduce their taxable income and lower their tax bill. This can result in large savings and is easily overlooked.

5. Certain meals can also be a small business deduction in two different ways:

Meals for employees/company-wide social events: These are 100% tax deductible, such as food for holiday parties.
Business meals: These are 50% tax-deductible for clients or prospects. The meal must be business-related, reasonably priced, and you or an employee must be present. You can also deduct 50% of meals you purchase from a restaurant during the course of business travel.

6. 1099 deductions for contractor-provided services.

If you hire a contractor or freelancer, you can deduct the entire cost. For example, if you pay a freelancer $1,500 for work on your website. The entire $1,500 is fully tax-deductible. These 1099 write-offs can reduce your tax liability, whether you’re a business owner or a freelancer. If you’re a freelancer or contractor who receives a 1099-NEC, you may be eligible for certain 1099 deductions, such as claiming part of your self-employment tax as a deduction.

7. Business travel is 100% deductible.

If you need to travel out of town for business, the cost of getting to and from your destination is tax-deductible including mileage at 67 cents per mile in 2024; it was 65.5 cents in 2023. Lodging expenses are also 100% tax-deductible.

Deductible costs also include plane tickets, hotels, rental car costs, parking fees, cost of taxis or ridesharing, etc. Business must be the main purpose of your trip but if it includes personal costs as well, keep records of your business travel expenses separately.

8. Gifts - Maximum deduction of $25.00/person.

Gifts for clients, customers, and employees are deductible. But there’s a catch—the limit is $25.00 per person. Promotional items with your company's name, such as calendars or pens, don’t count toward that limit if they cost $4.00 or less.

9. Auto expenses - 100% or percent of vehicle usage deductible.

Small business owners can deduct auto expenses, even if it’s their own car. If the vehicle is solely for business use, all costs are tax-deductible. If you use the car for business and personal activities, the standard mileage rate or actual expenses method will determine the deduction amount. Here is how to calculate it:

As noted above, the standard mileage rate for 2023 is $0.655 per mile. The standard mileage rate is the easiest. You track your miles and multiply that by the IRS standard mileage rate. For example, if you used your personal vehicle to drive 5,000 miles for business, your deduction would be $327.50, or 5,000 x $0.655.

Another way to take a business vehicle deduction is through the actual expense method which is calculated like this:

Total vehicle expenses x business miles divided by total miles.

The actual expense method means you track all vehicle-related expenses, such as insurance, fuel, and maintenance. You’ll also track your miles driven for business. Your deduction amount will be the total expenses for your car multiplied by the percentage of business-related miles.

10. Business taxes are deductible.

This includes taxes you pay for payroll, such as Social Security and Medicare taxes. Other examples include: (1) State and local income tax, (2) Sales tax for business purchases; and (3) Real estate tax for business property.

11. Charitable contributions, review rules for accurate deductions.

There are tax breaks available for small businesses that make charitable contributions including the following:

100% of charitable contributions are deductible if it's on their personal taxes. Small business owners that run sole proprietorships, partnerships, or limited liability companies (LLCs) can take advantage of this.
25% of the contribution is deductible if the business operates as a corporation.

12. Rent and utilities are 100% deductible.

Rent payments for business properties: The deduction includes offices, storage, warehouse, etc. If you have an agreement to buy the property at some point, you cannot deduct rent payments. The property must be exclusively for business purposes. If you use any part of the property for personal purposes, the rent payments may not be fully deductible.

Interest that your business pays on debt, such as loans or credit cards, is tax-deductible. Your business must be legally liable for the debt. Businesses with revenue of $27 million or less can deduct 100% of their interest expenses. For all others, there is a limit on the tax deductibility of interest expenses. The deduction cannot be above 30% of your taxable income.

14. Salaries and wages that you pay your employees.

This includes salaries, wages, bonuses, and benefits. However, salaries must be reasonable and ordinary. In order to qualify for deducting employee compensation costs, small business owners must properly document all payments, including keeping detailed records of hours worked, pay rates, and any additional benefits or bonuses.

15. Legal and professional fees, Business Insurance, and Health Insurance are all 100% deductible.

Legal/Professional fees: Assuming they’re necessary for your business they’re all deductible. Deductible legal fees can be for such things as: (1) tax issues, (2) discrimination claims; and (3) business sales. Legal fees unrelated to your business, such as those for personal matters or hobbies, are not deductible.
Business Insurance: Insurance premiums are 100% deductible. This includes all types of insurance you may need to run your business. Examples of eligible insurance include: (1) liability; (2) workers' compensation; (3) auto; and (4) property.
Health Insurance: Small businesses can deduct the entire cost of health insurance premiums for their employees. To be deductible, however, employers must generally pay 50% or more of their employees’ premiums. Self-employed individuals, including independent contractors, freelancers, and sole proprietors, can also deduct 100% of the health insurance premiums they pay for themselves and their families.

16. Subscriptions, Internet/phone, Education, and Marketing/Advertising - 100% deductible

Subscriptions: This includes subscriptions to software services, trade publications, and online resources that are necessary for your business.
Phone/Internet: These expenses for small businesses are eligible for deductions. All phone or interest usage for your business is tax deductible. If you use your phone and internet for both personal and business, only business-related use is deductible.
Education: The IRS offers tax breaks for small businesses that pay for education expenses. To qualify for the education deduction, the costs must add value to the business and improve or maintain necessary skills. Examples include classes, workshops, seminars, publication subscriptions, books.
Marketing/Advertising: These include expenses for campaigns to generate or retain customers such as: (1) ads on social media platforms; (2) newspaper and TV ads; and (3) sponsoring events or conferences. Be sure to retain records of all marketing expenses including receipts, invoices, and payments to verify the costs.

Now is the time to start getting your freelance tax documentation together so you can check it off your to-do list and file your taxes in a timely fashion. Be sure to track your deductions, and if you have trouble efficiently gathering tax documents, start systematizing your documentation process now to make it easier next year.

Simplify your freelance taxes and take advantage of tax breaks with professional help.

Getting a head start on tax season can help you alleviate the burden of preparing your freelance taxes. By working with a tax professional you can ensure that you can take advantage of new tax breaks and all of the ones you are entitled to.

If you have questions about your freelance taxes, you owe taxes or you have back taxes and unfiled returns, it is advisable to speak with a self-employment tax professional to ensure you receive accurate advice that is specific to your individual tax situation.

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from Freelancers Union Blog https://blog.freelancersunion.org/2024/01/25/get-your-freelance-tax-information-ready-now-the-irs-announces-tax-return-filing-starts-jan-29-2024/

The IRS Is Open for Business: Why E-Filing Is a Smart Choice

Anonymous — Wed, 24 Jan 2024 08:55:33 -0800

This article is posted with permission from our partner TaxAct. File your freelance taxes with confidence using TaxAct’s easy-to-use tax software. Freelancers Union members get 25% off the cost of federal and state tax filing: https://bit.ly/freelancers_taxact_blog

The IRS officially kicks off the 2023 tax season on Jan. 29, 2024, which would make this the first day the agency begins accepting both e-filed and paper income tax returns. However, if you want to get an early start on tax filing, you can complete your income tax return with us at TaxAct, and we’ll send it to the IRS right away when they begin accepting returns on Jan. 29.

If you’ve already completed your 2023 return — great! Your return should be one of the first in line for processing by the IRS. But if you haven’t filed your taxes yet, don’t fret. You have plenty of time to get started.

In fact, you can easily begin today by selecting the 2023 TaxAct^® product that best fits your tax situation.

Why e-file your taxes?

Choosing to electronically file (e-file) your tax return is the quickest and most efficient way to submit your taxes to the IRS. But that’s not the only reason you should consider e-filing your return this year. Let’s go over a few more reasons why e-filing may be the best option for you this year.

1. Fast and accurate filing: no math required

When you e-file using tax prep software such as TaxAct, you can complete your return faster and with greater accuracy. That’s because tax software like ours does the math for you and guides you through every step of your return, even potentially helping you identify opportunities for tax savings.

Not only that, but the IRS can process your income tax return faster when you e-file your taxes. You don’t have to rely on snail mail, which tacks on extra time before the IRS has your return in hand.

E-filing also lessens the risk of someone at the IRS mistyping your information from a paper form into their system, so it can reduce the likelihood of human error causing a problematic typo on your tax return.

2. Get your tax refund faster

If you’re due a tax refund for 2023, e-filing usually means your money will hit your bank account much quicker. When you e-file your tax return, it’s immediately sent to the IRS for processing, whereas paper tax returns take much longer. You can use the IRS Where’s My Refund? tracking tool 24 hours after e-filing your tax return, but you’ll have to wait up to four weeks to track your refund if you paper filed your tax return.

Want your tax refund even faster? Make sure to select direct deposit as your method of receiving your tax refund to have your money in hand as quickly as possible.

3. Receive confirmation for peace of mind

One of the main benefits of e-filing is that you can elect to get an electronic confirmation when the IRS receives your tax return. No more waiting and wondering if the return you gave to the mailman has reached its intended destination. Once you file your return using TaxAct and it’s accepted by the IRS, we’ll send you an email or text notification letting you know processing is underway.

4. E-file now, pay later

It is a common misconception that you must pay any taxes owed immediately when you e-file your tax return. In truth, you have some flexibility.

You can pay tax amounts owed when you e-file, or you can e-file early and set up an automatic payment to be made on the tax deadline (April 15, 2024). Payments can be sent electronically from your bank account, with a check, through a money order, or by credit card.

While you still must pay your tax bill by the tax filing deadline, filing early gives you more time to prepare and save for any unexpected taxes owed.

5. Stay organized

Using DIY software to file your taxes creates a permanent electronic record of your tax return. This allows you to easily access it for future use, like when tax time rolls around next year. If you continue to use TaxAct as your means of e-filing, we’ll already have your 2023 tax return data from the previous year, meaning we can immediately transfer last year’s information into your new tax return to save time.

Plus, let’s be honest, it’s much easier to keep track of a digital copy saved on your computer than having to track down a paper copy. With TaxAct, once you file this year’s tax return, you can access it for seven years at no charge. Goodbye, cluttered filing cabinets!

6. Keep more money in your pocket when e-filing

Don’t spend more money than necessary to file your income tax return. With just a little comparison shopping, it’s easy to identify affordable options, and our prices are hard to beat.

Ready to beat the rush and put tax filing behind you? Start e-filing your tax return today.

This article is for informational purposes only and not legal or financial advice.

All TaxAct offers, products and services are subject to applicable terms and conditions.

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from Freelancers Union Blog https://blog.freelancersunion.org/2024/01/24/the-irs-is-open-for-business-why-e-filing-is-a-smart-choice/

Boss Mindset: Wisdom

Anonymous — Tue, 23 Jan 2024 09:55:58 -0800

In traditional employment contexts, other people not only own your skillset, but they also own your ideas and the products of your labor.

This unequal bargain now means that because the company owns your skills, it is their job to “professionally develop” you. In employee-employer relationships, we rely on others to define our goals and push us toward achieving them. This dependence not only destroys our intrinsic motivation but also dulls our capacity to understand our purpose and build meaningfully toward it.

Independent workers must break away from the traditional power dynamics by reclaiming ownership of their skills and expertise. Unlike conventional employees, whose skills are often considered company assets, freelancers own their expertise. This power shift allows freelancers to decide how, when, and where they want to develop their skills, putting them in the driver's seat of their growth as an entrepreneur and a human.

This is the third part of a series on Boss Mindset: How to Own Our Work, Worth, and Wisdom.

Let’s talk about wisdom.

Expertise and Authority

For independent workers, skills and ideas are not commodities owned by someone else. This freedom fosters creativity, innovation, and a sense of ownership over our expertise. This freedom also forces our ideas to compete in an open market, which demands that we consistently improve what we do and how we do it to succeed.

Freelancers who run their businesses like a boss take this challenge seriously and leverage their expertise as an authority with their clients. Clients are not looking for an employee that they have to tell what to do, train, and manage along the way. Clients are looking for top-tier experts who understand precisely what they need and then independently execute.

Operating at this level of authority fundamentally changes the value proposition for clients and the understanding of worth as a freelancer. Instead of just an executor whose value is dictated by time spent or deliverables completed, expert freelancers are compensated for the value of the problems they solve for their clients.

Self-Development

To operate at the highest level of expertise, professional development has to be a self-driven pursuit. Freelancers recognize the need to stay relevant in a dynamic market and actively seek opportunities for continuous learning. Whether enrolling in online courses, attending workshops, or participating in industry events, freelancers take charge of their own development, recognizing that their skills are an asset they control.

Freelancers are not just workers; they are entrepreneurs. They operate as small businesses, managing their brand, marketing their skills, and seeking growth opportunities. This entrepreneurial mindset encourages freelancers to view their skills as a personal investment and actively seek ways to enhance and diversify their offerings.

The intrinsic and extrinsic rewards of entrepreneurship reinforce the drive to get better and better at what we do. When we own the choice to develop ourselves and seek out exciting and relevant opportunities professionally, the improvement process is a reward in and of itself. This is only reinforced by the extrinsic rewards of better clients, more exciting projects, and higher rates.

Doing Less Better

As we grow as professionals, we must constantly be vigilant of refocusing our efforts on what we’re best positioned to do, which changes over time. Freelancers who start as “just” doers and progress to strategic thought partners often get caught up in continuing to do all of the tasks instead of refining what they focus their energy on. As we progress, improving means doing less better, not doing more.

This trap is particularly hard for solopreneurs to avoid because we’ve built single-person businesses and relied on our talents exclusively for so long. Doing less better doesn’t have to mean hiring a big team.

Here are a few ways you can refine what you do so that you continue to grow:

Evolve client relationships: Long-term clients will want to grow with you. Think about how you can redefine your relationship and scope with them to reflect your direction better.
Say no: Inevitably, as we grow, projects and clients that used to be a good fit will cease to be. As opposed to existing clients that can grow with us, there will come a time when you have to say no to new clients who are no longer a good fit for your evolving business.
Delegate and outsource: Finding new clients is rarely a problem for expert freelancers who maintain their expertise and relevancy in the market. If you’ve built a reputation as an authority in your field, your existing clients will never leave, and new clients will always come along. The trick now is refining the role you play in the client experience. Explore whether there are parts of your business that no longer make sense for you to do but might be a good option for someone else.

As freelancers, our skills are personal assets, our ideas are individual property, and our products of labor become avenues for personal and financial growth. Working independently requires us to take ownership of our skill sets and expertise to succeed as a business, evolve ourselves as individuals, and build meaningful work that lasts a lifetime.

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from Freelancers Union Blog https://blog.freelancersunion.org/2024/01/23/boss-mindset-wisdom/

What Is IV Vitamin Infusion Therapy?

Dr. Hoder — Tue, 23 Jan 2024 06:00:00 -0800

At Markson Chiropractic, we’re always excited to offer our patients in Plantation, FL, the latest treatment options for holistic care. One of our newer offerings is IV Nutrition Therapy, an innovative way to ensure that you’re getting the vitamin and mineral intake your body needs to thrive. Not sure what IV Nutrition Therapy is or how it may benefit you? Let’s find out!

What Is IV Vitamin Infusion Therapy?

IV Nutrition Therapy, otherwise known as vitamin infusion therapy, is a treatment option for improving your nutrition on the whole. As the name suggests, this therapy uses an IV drip to directly supply vitamins and minerals to the bloodstream, quickening absorption and the positive effects that follow.

The benefits of IV Nutrition Therapy are far-reaching and may depend on what treatment option you choose. Generally, IV Nutrition Therapy can help keep you hydrated and optimize organ function. One of our more popular options is the Myer’s Cocktail, which features concentrated doses of zinc and vitamins B12 and C. Ironically, this potent cocktail can help you get over a hangover more quickly. In terms of longer-term impact, the Myer’s Cocktail can help boost your immune system, reduce fatigue, and help you perform better in the gym.

Markson Chiropractic even offers an IV Nutrition Therapy treatment that can help curb the effects of aging. Our Inner Beauty infusion—rich with B complex, biotin, and vitamin C—has been shown to be effective at fighting acne and wrinkles so that you can enjoy more youthful skin. You can improve the Inner Beauty option with a glutathione push, which adds a powerful antioxidant for increased effectiveness.

Looking for something else? We have several more IV Nutrition Therapy options with a wide range of vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and other essential nutrients. From fewer migraines to better athletic performance, IV Nutrition Therapy may be able to help.

Try IV Nutrition Therapy in Plantation, FL

IV Nutrition Therapy is just one of the many excellent services we offer at Markson Chiropractic—your trusted wellness resource in Plantation, FL. Whether it’s innovative IV therapy to boost your vitamin and mineral intake or the wide-ranging benefits of chiropractic care, you can try it here. Schedule an appointment online or call us at (954) 472-7975 to get started.

5 Self-Employed IRS Tax Forms for 2023

Anonymous — Thu, 18 Jan 2024 07:55:31 -0800

If you’re even a moderately successful freelancer, you likely know must file a tax return and pay taxes on your income. But which tax forms do you need to file your self-employment taxes?

At a glance:

In addition to the usual Form 1040, if you are self-employed, you will likely need to attach certain schedules, like Schedule C or Schedule SE.
Use any 1099-NEC forms you receive to accurately report your self-employment income.
Form 8829 can help you figure the home office deduction, if applicable.

Here are five Internal Revenue Service (IRS) self-employed tax forms and information that might be relevant to your tax situation.

1. Form 1040, U.S. Individual Tax Return

Most U.S. tax filers use Form 1040 even when they’re not self-employed. This form is comprised of different sections where you can report your income and claim tax deductions. Whether or not you owe taxes, you might qualify for certain tax credits.

Certain types of income or deductions may require you to attach additional schedules. For instance, if you choose to itemize your deductions instead of taking the standard deduction, you’ll need to include Schedule A with your Form 1040.

As a freelancer in particular, you might need to attach other specific schedules to your Form 1040.

2. Schedule C to Form 1040, Profit or Loss From Business (Sole Proprietorship)

Speaking of schedules, one you’ll probably need to become familiar with as a self-employed taxpayer is Schedule C. If you are a sole proprietor, this is an essential form for you. Since sole proprietors take all business profits as personal income, you use Schedule C to report all income and expenses from your business to determine your profit or loss.

Schedule C consists of two sections:

Income: Starting with income, record all payments you received from your clients. You might have different amounts of gross receipts or sales, gross profit, and gross income.
Expenses: Schedule C organizes your expense amounts into numerous line items. For example, auto, advertising, depreciation, and supply expenses are all recorded in separate categories.

Although you don’t have to fill out a separate IRS tax form for business use of your car, it makes sense to understand what you can claim for Schedule C. You can only deduct all expenses for operating your car if you use it exclusively for your business. If you drive for both business and personal use, you must keep careful records of how many miles you drive for each. You can use the standard mileage rate or the actual expenses method to calculate your business mileage deduction.

3. Form 1099-NEC, Nonemployee Compensation

After the end of the year, each of your clients should give you a Form 1099-NEC, Nonemployee Compensation, for the total they paid you that year if it exceeded the baseline amount that the IRS specifies ($600 in 2023).

Compare every Form 1099-NEC you receive to your records to make sure the amounts are consistent. Your clients file Form 1099-NEC with the IRS, so you don’t want there to be a notable discrepancy if the client claims they paid you more than they did.

4. Form 8829, Expenses for Business Use of Your Home

You might be able to claim certain expenses for business use of your home by taking the home office tax deduction. In order to do so, your home office must meet the following criteria:

It must be your principal place of business or a place of business where you meet with patients, clients, or customers.
This area of your home must be used exclusively for business purposes.

If you determine part of your home is regularly used as your principal place of business, you can calculate the actual expenses of your home office using Form 8829. Deductible expenses might include mortgage interest, insurance, utilities, and repairs. You won’t be able to deduct the full cost of these expenses, but you can deduct the percentage of your home that is dedicated to your home office. For instance, if you use 15% of your home exclusively for business, you will be able to deduct 15% of your home expenses as part of this business deduction.

However, if crunching those exact percentages sounds like a hassle, a quicker way to calculate your expenses is to use the simplified method, where you simply deduct a flat rate per square foot. The qualification requirements are the same, but the process of figuring out the deduction and your recordkeeping obligations may be more straightforward.

Fortunately, TaxAct^® makes it easy by doing those calculations for you — all you have to do is answer a few interview questions.

5. Schedule SE (Form 1040), Self-Employment Tax

In most cases, self-employed people who earned at least $400 in net self-employment income (in 2023) have to pay self-employment tax (SE tax). You can do this by filing Schedule SE with your Form 1040. The SE tax is 15.3% of your net income, and it covers your Social Security and Medicare taxes. Thankfully, you can claim 50% of self-employment taxes owed as a tax deduction. Schedule SE will help you figure out this deduction and direct you to enter it on your Form 1040.

The bottom line

Always check that you’ve got the correct versions of all IRS tax forms for the year and follow all directions carefully. The forms might change, so you don’t want to use a piece of outdated information.

Using a tax software program, like TaxAct, helps ensure you’re using the correct documents for the current tax year. Simply answer a few questions about your specific tax situation and our program generates the appropriate tax forms for you.

This article is for informational purposes only and not legal or financial advice.

All TaxAct offers, products and services are subject to applicable terms and conditions.

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from Freelancers Union Blog https://blog.freelancersunion.org/2024/01/18/5-self-employed-irs-tax-forms-for-2023/

Simple ways to stop your iPhone from eavesdropping

Anonymous — Wed, 17 Jan 2024 08:56:01 -0800

This post is provided by our partner MacPaw, a software development company that creates maintenance, security, and app distribution solutions for macOS and iOS. Learn more and get an exclusive Freelancers Union-member discount on MacPaw products here.

There are too many suspicions that our smartphones are secretly listening to us. The most skeptical among us will scoff “Duh!” but we don’t like to indulge in conspiracy theories.

While there is technology on our iPhones that might record or process what we’re saying, our phones are not specifically designed to eavesdrop on us. But is it possible at all? Experts at Moonlock, a cybersecurity division of MacPaw, say, yes! They also have some practical advice on how to spot a spying app and stop it from listening to you on your iPhone.

Assistants are listening to you

First of all, almost all modern smartphones come with built-in virtual assistants. Depending on the model and operational system of the phone, these assistants can listen for an activation phrase that sort of wakes them up. “Hello, Siri” prompts the assistant on your iPhone, so it starts listening to your voice commands to execute them, be it sending a message or setting a reminder.

There are rumors that Siri sends Apple everything it hears users say, but it’s not entirely true. In 2019, after a privacy scandal around Siri, Apple stopped the evaluation of user voice recordings by humans. It means that all voice commands are executed by Siri locally on the device, and they are only processed after the trigger phrase “Hey, Siri.”

However, Moonlock experts say there’s something to keep in mind. When Siri is triggered, there’s still a possibility that it records and sends user audio to Apple servers. In order to act upon your voice command, Siri can send the audio to Apple for correct interpretation and then perform the action on your iPhone.

If you feel that this makes you uncomfortable, you can always disable Siri in your iPhone settings. Here are 4 steps to do it:

Open Settings
Select Siri & Search
Tap Listen for
Choose Off

Can applications listen to us, too?

Yes, if you grant them permission to use the microphone. Instagram, Skype, TikTok, or other apps with the functionality to record videos or to call usually ask for such access. But they don’t actively listen to you, contrary to popular belief.

The root of this belief is in multiple reports of users about social media apps misusing access to microphones for ad targeting. You know, when you never googled the thing but rather talked with friends about it, and now it’s plastered all over your Instagram feed. In 2019, Facebook denied these claims, stressing that their apps don’t use microphones unless you are performing an action that requires audio input.

Still, you might feel the urge to disable the mic whatsoever to avoid any eavesdropping shenanigans. Unfortunately, there’s no button on iPhones for that. But you can go through the list of applications that use your microphone and disable this option for them at once.

Open Settings
Select Privacy & Security
Tap Microphone
Have a look through the list of apps
Toggle off any suspicious application that shouldn’t use the mic in your opinion

This is how you know someone’s actually listening

With myths busted and basic instructions given, Moonlock experts recommend to stay alert. In the world of malware and phone jailbreaking, there are multiple ways for cybercriminals to listen to your conversations without consent. Keep an eye out for the following red flags – they might help you detect a bug before any damage is done to your personal information.

First, the orange indicator. A new way that Apple warns iPhone users that their mic is being used. Look for it at the very top of your display. There also might be a similar green dot – it indicates that your camera is on at the moment. It’s okay to see both of them when you are actually using the microphone and the camera. But when you are not, and the dots are beaming – this is when you should start investigating.

Next, mobile data runs out faster than usual. When hackers record your conversations, they need to send audio files over the network. This is why a heavier-than-usual use of your mobile traffic and data might be a red flag to watch out for.

Finally, strange audio files appear. Before cybercriminals send the audio, the recording must be saved on your iPhone first. So, if you don’t remember recording anything but find a file with a random name, it is better to get to the bottom of this.

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from Freelancers Union Blog https://blog.freelancersunion.org/2024/01/17/simple-ways-to-stop-your-iphone-from-eavesdropping/

Back and Neck Pain

Anonymous — Tue, 16 Jan 2024 12:55:34 -0800

This post is provided by our partner, MetroPlusHealth. Find affordable health plans for New Yorkers of all ages from MetroPlusHealth.

What is back and neck pain?

Back pain can range from a mild, dull, annoying ache to persistent, severe, disabling pain. Pain in your back can limit your ability to move. It can interfere with normal functioning and quality of life. Always talk with your healthcare provider if you have persistent pain.

Neck pain occurs in the area of the cervical vertebrae in your neck. Because of its location and range of motion, your neck is often left unprotected and at risk for injury.

Pain in your back or neck area can come on suddenly and intensely. Chronic pain lasts for weeks, months, or even years. The pain can be constant or come and go.

What causes back and neck pain?

Even with today's technology, the exact cause of back and neck pain is hard to find. In most cases, back and neck pain may have many different causes. They include:

Overuse, strenuous activity, or incorrect use, such as repetitive twisting or heavy lifting
Trauma, injury, or fractures
Breakdown of vertebrae, often caused by stresses on the muscles and ligaments that support your spine, or the effects of aging
Infection
Abnormal growth, such as a tumor or bone spur
Obesity, which puts extra weight on your spine and pressure on your disks
Poor muscle tone or muscle weakness in the back and belly (abdomen)
Muscle tension or spasm
Sprain or strain
Ligament or muscle tears
Joint problems, such as arthritis
Smoking
Slipped disk (protruding or herniated disk) and pinched nerve
Osteoporosis and compression fractures
Problems of your vertebrae and bones that you were born with (congenital)
Abdominal problems, such as an aortic aneurysm

What are the symptoms of back and neck pain?

Symptoms linked to back pain may include:

Dull, burning, or sharp pain in your back. The pain can be limited to a single spot or cover a large area.
Leg numbness or tingling above or below your knee
Stiffness or aching that occurs anywhere along your spine from your neck to your tailbone
Sharp, shooting pain that spreads from your low back to your buttocks, down the back of your thigh, and into your calf and toes
Consistent ache in the middle or lower part of your back, especially after standing or sitting for a long period

Loss of bladder and bowel control with weakness in both legs are symptoms of a serious condition that needs medical attention right away.

Symptoms linked to neck pain can be:

Arm numbness or tingling
Headaches
Shoulder pain
Sharp shooting pain or a dull ache in your neck

Pain that occurs suddenly in your back or neck from an injury is acute pain. Acute pain comes on quickly and may leave sooner than chronic back or neck pain. This type of pain should not last more than 6 weeks.

Pain that may come on quickly or slowly and lingers for 3 months or more is chronic pain. Chronic pain is less common than acute pain.

How are back and neck pain diagnosed?

Your healthcare provider will ask about your health history and do a physical exam. They may also do X-rays of the affected areas, as well as an MRI. This allows a more complete view. The MRI also makes pictures of soft tissues such as ligaments, tendons, and blood vessels. The MRI can help spot infection, tumor, inflammation, or pressure on your nerve. Sometimes a blood test may help diagnose arthritis, a condition that can cause back and neck pain.

How are back and neck pain treated?

In many cases, acute back or neck pain may simply improve with some rest. Over-the-counter medicines, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, may also help with the discomfort. Try to move gently during this period, so that you won't become stiff and lose mobility.

If you have chronic pain of your back and neck, try several remedies before considering surgery. These include:

Hot or cold packs as advised by your healthcare provider
Certain exercises to strengthen back and belly muscles and ease pain, such as stretching and flexing. Your healthcare provider can show you these exercises. Physical therapy can also help you find the correct exercises.
Aerobic exercise may help with your overall fitness and strength.
Certain anti-inflammatory medicines or muscle relaxants may be used, as advised by your provider.
Sometimes your provider may suggest a brace or corset for extra support.
Shots (injections) for pain relief in the area
Nerve block. This eases pain signals from the affected nerve.
Acupuncture
Osteopathic manipulation

How are back and neck pain managed?

Acute back pain usually gets better without special treatment. Using acetaminophen or ibuprofen as directed will decrease pain and help you rest. Surgery and special exercises are generally not used with acute pain.

For severe, disabling, or chronic back and neck pain, rehabilitation programs can be designed to meet your needs. The type of program will depend on the cause and the type and severity of your pain, injury, or disease. Your active involvement is key to the success of rehab programs.

The goal of back and neck rehab is to help you manage disabling pain. It's also important to return you to your highest level of functioning and independence and improve your quality of life. The focus of rehab is on easing pain, improving movement. It also focuses on limiting any additional damage and increasing your functional ability.

To help reach these goals, back and neck rehab programs may include:

Exercise programs to improve range of motion, increase muscle strength, improve flexibility and mobility, and increase endurance
Help with assistive devices that keep you independent
Education and counseling
Pain management methods
Help to quit smoking
Gait (walking) and movement retraining
Stress management
Nutritional counseling
Ergonomic assessments and work-related injury prevention programs
Job counseling

What are possible complications of neck and back pain?

Complications of back and neck pain may include:

Loss of productivity. Back pain is the most common reason for disability in working adults.
Nerve damage. If your back pain is from a herniated disk, pressure on the spinal nerves may cause a variety of problems, such as weakness, numbness, or severe shooting pain that travels from the back to the leg.
Depression. Back or neck pain can disrupt all aspects of life. This includes work, physical exercise, social activities, and sleep. The anxiety and stress caused by the change in movement and pain can lead to depression.
Weight gain. Loss of movement and inability to exercise can lead to weight gain and the loss of muscle strength.

It is a good idea to see a healthcare provider if you have numbness or tingling, or if your pain is severe and does not get better with medicine and rest. If you have trouble urinating, weakness, pain, or numbness in your legs, fever, or unintentional weight loss, call your healthcare provider right away.

Can I prevent neck and back pain?

The following may help to prevent back and neck pain:

Practice correct lifting methods. Don't lift heavy items. When you do lift something, bend your legs, keep your back straight, and then slowly lift your body and the object.
Wear a seat belt in motor vehicles in case of a collision.
Use telephones, computers, and other equipment correctly.
Maintain correct posture while sitting, standing, and sleeping.
Exercise regularly. Learn back-strengthening exercises to keep your back and belly muscles strong. Warm up with stretching exercises before doing exercises.
Do exercises that improve your balance.
Don't smoke.
Stay at a healthy weight.
Reduce emotional stress that may cause muscle tension.
Get enough vitamin D and calcium in your diet.

When should I call my healthcare provider?

See your healthcare provider if you have:

Loss of bladder or bowel control with weakness in either leg. These symptoms need attention right away.
Severe back or neck pain that does not decrease with medicine and rest
Pain after an injury or a fall
Weakness, numbness, or tingling in your legs or arms
Fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, or as advised by your healthcare provider
Unintentional weight loss

Key points about back and neck pain

Back and neck problems range from minor aches to severe, disabling pain.
Often, the reason for your pain can't be found.
See a healthcare provider if you have numbness or tingling, severe pain that does not improve with medicine and rest, trouble urinating, weakness, pain, or numbness in your legs, fever, unintentional weight loss, or pain after a fall.
Often, back and neck pain will improve over time. See your healthcare provider if your pain is not decreasing.
Use prevention strategies to keep yourself healthy and injury-free.
For severe, disabling, or chronic back pain, consider an individualized rehabilitation program.

Next steps

Tips to help you get the most from a visit to your healthcare provider:

Know the reason for your visit and what you want to happen.
Before your visit, write down questions you want answered.
Bring someone with you to help you ask questions and remember what your provider tells you.
At the visit, write down the name of a new diagnosis and any new medicines, treatments, or tests. Also write down any new directions your provider gives you.
Know why a new medicine or treatment is prescribed and how it will help you. Also know what the side effects are.
Ask if your condition can be treated in other ways.
Know why a test or procedure is recommended and what the results could mean.
Know what to expect if you do not take the medicine or have the test or procedure.
If you have a follow-up appointment, write down the date, time, and purpose for that visit.
Know how you can contact your healthcare provider if you have questions.

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from Freelancers Union Blog https://blog.freelancersunion.org/2024/01/16/back-and-neck-pain/

Chiropractic and Exercise Go Together

Dr. Markson — Tue, 16 Jan 2024 06:00:00 -0800

Are you getting back into the gym and building momentum toward your New Year’s resolutions? One of the best ways to ensure you keep progressing is to bring together the power of chiropractic care and exercise. Our patients want to know if you can work out before or after the chiropractor—let’s explore when it’s best to hit the gym after getting adjusted.

Can You Work Out After Seeing a Chiropractor?

You can work out after getting adjusted by a chiropractor, but you’ll want to leave a little bit of space between. After you’ve left the chiropractor’s office, wait at least 30 minutes before you hit the gym and start exercising. This gives your body time to catch up and let the positive benefits of chiropractic set in. Before you jump into your workout, stretch for about 15 minutes to maximize the results of your adjustment and prepare your body for strenuous exercise.

Can You Hit the Gym After a Chiropractic Adjustment?

If it’s easier to hit the gym first and see your chiropractor afterward, that’s also fine! You’ll also want to leave about 30 minutes in between, and you can pad out the recovery by cooling down with stretches. Whether you’re getting adjusted before or after a workout, make sure you’re also hydrating, which helps with muscle recovery and amplifies the effectiveness of chiropractic care.

Chiropractic and Exercise Work Wonderfully Together

Whatever your preference, pairing exercise and chiropractic adjustments can lead to great results. Visits to the chiropractor on either side of your workouts help with recovery, increase circulation, and promote healing. Adjustments may be able to help reduce soreness after workouts, increase resistance to injury, and improve range of motion and balance to optimize your gains.

Try Chiropractic Care and Exercise in Plantation, FL

Markson Chiropractic wants to help you be your best in 2024. We offer chiropractic care to help you achieve better wellness overall, and we can help you get back into the swing of exercising with physical therapy and regenerative therapy. We’re thrilled to be your chiropractor in Plantation, FL, and we’re here to help you make this new year the best yet. Schedule an appointment online, call us at (954) 472-7975, or visit our offices to get started.

Important Tax Dates and Deadlines in 2024

Anonymous — Wed, 10 Jan 2024 09:55:59 -0800

Get ready to mark these important dates on your calendar. Here are the most important tax deadlines and due dates for taxpayers to be aware of in 2024 (and answers to some common tax questions).

When are taxes due?

In 2024, Tax Day falls on April 15. This is the deadline for filing your taxes as a calendar year filer.

The April 15 deadline applies to traditional employees who receive a W-2, self-employed sole proprietors (including freelancers, independent contractors, or gig workers), retirees, multi-member LLCs, and corporate returns.

What is the deadline for filing taxes as a business?

There are two exceptions to the April 15 tax deadline — the due date for partnerships and S corporations to file their business return is March 15, 2024.

Why is Tax Day 2024 on April 15?

Typically, the tax due date is April 15 unless that day falls on a weekend or a holiday. In that case, Tax Day is usually pushed back to the next business day.

What time are taxes due on the 15th?

You must file your taxes by 11:59 p.m. on April 15, 2024. This is the last day to file and pay without penalty unless you request a tax extension. Once the clock strikes midnight, you risk potential late fees and late filing penalties. If you need more time to file, you must request an extension (more on that below).

Do you have to have your taxes done by April 15?

If you can’t file your income tax return by April 15 this year, you can give yourself more time by requesting an automatic tax extension. You can do this when e-filing with TaxAct^® by filing IRS Form 4868 before the tax deadline (April 15, 2024). We’ll walk you through the process, help you claim relevant tax deductions and tax credits, and assist you in filing any state extension forms as well, if necessary.

Make sure you file for an extension before the tax deadline. If you don’t file for an extension before the Tax Day due date, you risk being charged late fees and penalties.

Once you’ve filed for an extension, you will have until Oct. 15, 2024, to complete and file your 2023 federal tax return. Like Tax Day, the extension deadline is typically Oct. 15, unless the 15th falls on a weekend or holiday.

One important note — filing an automatic tax extension only gives you more time to file. It will not give you more time to pay any taxes due. When you request an extension with Form 4868, you’ll be able to estimate and pay any taxes due for 2023. If you’re expecting a tax refund and don’t anticipate owing any taxes, you should be in the clear.

If you need more time to file your business tax return, you can also request a business tax extension. Partnerships, multi-member LLCs, and corporations can file an extension using Form 7004. Sole proprietors and single-member LLCs will use Form 4868. You can request an extension using either of these tax forms when e-filing with TaxAct using our tax preparation software.

Since businesses have an earlier tax filing due date (March 15), the IRS also gives them an earlier extension due date. The tax deadline for filing an extended business tax return for 2023 is Sept. 16, 2024.

What is the tax deadline for the first quarter of 2024?

April 15 is also the due date for first quarter estimated tax payments. This due date applies to those with little or no income tax withheld from their wages, such as freelancers, small business owners, and investors.

The due dates for this year are as follows:

Due Date	Payment Period	Quarterly Payment
Jan. 16, 2024	Sept. 1 to Dec. 31	2023 Q4
April 15, 2024	Jan. 1 to March 31	2024 Q1
June 17, 2024	April 1 to May 31	2024 Q2
Sept. 16, 2024	June 1 to Aug. 31	2024 Q3
Jan. 15, 2025	Sept. 1 to Dec. 31	2024 Q4

What is the September 15 tax deadline?

Sept. 15 is the typical tax filing deadline for Q3 estimated tax payments. It is also the typical tax due date for partnerships and S-corporations that requested a business return extension. However, the deadline for both in 2024 is Sept. 16, as the 15th falls on a Sunday.

What are the tax deadlines for 2024?

Depending on your tax situation and what kind of filer you are, there are different tax dates to be aware of. Below are the important tax dates and deadlines for individual filers, including those who are retired, an employee, or self-employed.

Tip: Before filing, estimate your potential income taxes using our tax calculator.

Jan. 16, 2024– Tax payment due for 2023 Q4 estimated tax payments for self-employed individuals or those with other income without tax withholding.
Jan. 23, 2024– The expected launch of tax season 2023 — the IRS is expected to start accepting and processing income tax returns for 2023 on this day.
Jan. 31, 2024– Employers must send W-2 forms no later than this date (you still might receive yours in early February). This is also the deadline to send certain 1099 forms, including 1099-NEC, which reports self-employment income from side hustles or freelance work. You might also receive a Form 1099-MISC if you received income from interest or dividends, rents, royalties, or prize winnings.
Feb. 15, 2024– Deadline to reclaim your exemption from withholding. This applies if you choose to claim an exemption from your employer withholding taxes from your paycheck on your Form W-4. To continue to be exempt from withholding, you must give your employer a new Form W-4 by this date every year.
April 1, 2024– Due date to take the required minimum distribution from your retirement account if you turned 73 during the 2023 calendar year.
April 15, 2024– Tax Day deadline to file or e-file your federal income tax return (and most state tax returns, if applicable). There are some exceptions for certain states — Maine and Massachusetts state taxes are due April 17; Delaware and Iowa state taxes are due April 30; Hawaii state taxes are due April 20; Virginia state taxes are due May 1; and Louisiana state taxes are due May 15.
- This is also the deadline to request an extension by filing Form 4868 and to pay any taxes due from tax year 2023 (even if you are requesting an extension).
- You must also make HSA and IRA contributions for tax year 2023 by April 15, 2024.
- April 15 is also when estimated tax payments are due for the first quarter of 2024.
June 17, 2024– The due date for 2024 Q2 estimated tax payments.
Sept. 16, 2024– The due date for 2024 Q3 estimated tax payments.
Oct. 15, 2024– If you filed for an extension, this is the deadline to file your 2023 income tax return.
Jan. 15, 2025– The due date for 2024 Q4 estimated tax payments.

When are business taxes due?

While many deadlines below are similar to individual due dates, small business owners have some unique tax due dates to keep in mind. The list below doesn’t cover every tax deadline, but we’ve included some of the most important ones to remember.

Jan. 16, 2024– The due date for 2023 Q4 estimated tax payments.
Jan. 31, 2024– Deadline for employers to send W-2 forms to their employees. This is also the deadline to send out certain 1099 forms such as 1099-MISC, 1099-NEC, or 1099-K.
March 15, 2024– Taxes are due for partnerships, S corporations, or multi-member LLCs taxed as partnerships. This is the due date for calendar year business filers. If your business uses a fiscal year instead, your tax due date is the 15th day of the third month after the close of your tax year. For example, if your business’s fiscal year is June 1 – May 31, your business tax return due date would be Aug. 15 — three months and 15 days after May 31.
- March 15 is also the deadline for the above-mentioned business types to request an extension and the deadline to file Form 2553 to switch your business election to an S corp for tax year 2024.
April 15, 2024– Tax filing deadline for C Corporations (Form 1120), sole proprietors (Schedule C), single-member LLCs, and LLCs taxed as corporations. If your business uses a fiscal tax year, you must file your business tax return by the 15th day of the third month after the end of your tax year.
- This is also the deadline for the above-mentioned types of businesses to file for a tax extension.
June 17, 2024– The due date for 2024 Q2 estimated tax payments.
Sept. 16, 2024– The due date for 2024 Q3 estimated tax payments. This is also the deadline for partnerships and S corps that filed a tax extension to submit their tax returns.
Oct. 15, 2024– The tax deadline for C corporations that filed a tax extension.
Jan. 15, 2025– The due date for 2024 Q4 estimated tax payments.

If you’d like a complete picture of all the 2024 tax calendar due dates, head to IRS Publication 509.

This article is for informational purposes only and not legal or financial advice.

All TaxAct offers, products and services are subject to applicable terms and conditions.

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from Freelancers Union Blog https://blog.freelancersunion.org/2024/01/10/important-tax-dates-and-deadlines-in-2024/

How – and why – to plan a workation as a freelancer

Anonymous — Tue, 09 Jan 2024 09:56:22 -0800

As a teenager, I had it all planned out – I’d be a freelancer. I’d make a lot of money. And I’d be a digital nomad for life.

I have been freelancing since I was 19. At times I made a lot of money. But I’ve never become a digital nomad.

I made different choices, and I don’t regret that. Yet, I still have the travel bug, and as a freelancer I have great freedom. That’s why, from time to time, I like to play the digital nomad game for a couple of weeks. How? With a workation, of course!

What’s a workation, exactly?

A workation is a mix of work and vacation. Since you can work anywhere, why wouldn’t you do it on a cruise ship, or in that foreign capital you’ve been wanting to explore for years?

With a workation you can do all of that while still working part-time.

Don’t get me wrong – I am not advocating for workations instead of vacations. I love to take a proper vacation, and you should totally do that at least once or twice per year.

But if you are like me, you can’t take five 2-week vacations per year. That’s where workations come in handy.

How a workation helped me restart my freelance business

My first ever workation was in spring 2022. I took off to Lisbon and stayed there for 2 weeks. It ticked all my boxes – Portugal has a low cost of living, Lisbon is a fantastic city, and it wasn’t far from Italy, where I live.

Most importantly, though, I took it while I was struggling with burnout and had no motivation to keep working on my freelance business.

It turned out to be a reinvigorating experience that reminded me of all the great things about freelancing that I had come to take for granted over the years.

I can safely say it was instrumental for me to finally manage to get back on track – two months later, I started to slowly phase back to work.

Define your priorities…

Are you looking to primarily relax, with work taking a backseat? Or is your goal to maintain a regular work schedule while enjoying a change of scenery?

If your priority is relaxation, be prepared to allocate a larger budget for activities and accommodations where you can truly unwind, if that’s something that you value.

If your aim is to keep up with work while enjoying a new environment, instead, your planning should lean towards a balance. You might explore local sights and experiences, but the primary focus remains on work.

In either scenario, being clear about what you want from your workation helps in making the right choices, ensuring that your time is both productive and enjoyable, whether it’s tilted towards more work or more play.

… and set your budget accordingly

Setting a budget is a crucial step in planning a workation. Begin by outlining your major expenses: accommodation, travel fares, food and leisure activities. (factor in occasional splurges like a fancy dinner or a local tour – it’s still part vacation, after all!)

This exercise will help you make informed choices, ensuring you enjoy your workation without financial stress. By planning your budget in advance, you can find the perfect balance between work, exploration, and relaxation.

Choose a destination

The world is your playground… but keep in mind you’ll still be working, at least a few hours per day. If you are travelling to another country, you have to plan your working hours based on the time difference.

An example? 9 AM in Boston is 11PM in Seul. If you mainly work with clients in the Boston area and you want to spend 2 weeks in Korea, you would have to wake up at 6AM to be able to answer emails at 4PM, client time. That’s a time difference nightmare for you to handle.

If you spend those 2 weeks in Paris instead, you’ll be free to explore the city in the mornings and still be there for your clients’ start of business time – 9AM in Boston is 3PM in Paris.

You will also need a reliable Internet connection. In big cities and popular tourism destinations, that’s not hard to come by. However, if you plan to explore more remote areas, you will need some preparation.

Where to stay

While I love hotels, and they are usually my first choice when I travel, I don’t usually recommend them for a workation. Opting for a short term rental can be a much better choice, mainly for two reasons: you can cook your own meals, which helps to keep costs down and to stay in shape; and they often have something better than a chair and a small desk to create a basic workstation.

If you want to take your workation to a brand new level, though, my top tip is to work from a coworking space. There is simply no better way to meet locals and work in a comfortable setting, and you can choose one that’s close enough to wherever you are staying.

With digital nomadism getting more and more popular, there are plenty of guides to find coworking spaces in most touristic destinations in the world.

Plan each day beforehand

Remember that you're juggling work and leisure, so striking the right balance is crucial. Start by setting realistic goals for each day. Are there specific hours you need to be online, or tasks that require deep focus? Work around those to plan when you need to be at your desk.

Next, integrate your leisure activities. If you're an early riser, perhaps a morning walk or exploring local cafes can kickstart your day. If you prefer evenings, save local attractions or dining experiences for then. By allocating time for both work and fun, you're less likely to feel overwhelmed or guilty for not meeting work obligations.

Remember, flexibility is key. Sometimes, work demands may shift or you might discover a must-see spot. Being adaptable while keeping a basic structure will help you enjoy your workation to the fullest, without compromising on your professional responsibilities.

My advice for first timers

Is this your first time planning a workation? Keep things simple.

Choose a local destination – Choose a destination that’s just a few hours away, possibly in the same country. National parks, skiing destinations in the winter and beach areas in the summer come to mind
Make the most of your slow season – If you have been freelancing for a few years, you know what times of the year you are busiest and what months are usually slower. For me, the first two weeks of December are usually the slowest time of the year. That is the best time for me to go
Stay for a week – As you become a workation expert, you’ll be able to take much longer workations. For your first one, though, a week should be enough
Tell your clients you will only be working part time – No need to hide this from your clients! Tell them well in advance that you’ll be working part-time from X to Y. Just don’t go MIA on them

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from Freelancers Union Blog https://blog.freelancersunion.org/2024/01/09/how-and-why-to-plan-a-workation-as-a-freelancer/

Tips for a Successful Weight-Loss Journey

Dr. Hoder — Tue, 09 Jan 2024 06:00:00 -0800

Every new year, countless Americans pledge to lose weight—but ultimately fall short of their goals. If weight loss is one of your resolutions for 2024, we’d like to offer some tips to help make your journey more successful.

4 Tips for a Successful Weight-Loss Journey

Consistency Is Key

If your goal is to lose weight and keep it off, dieting for a few months simply won’t do. Healthy eating and proper nutrition is a lifelong journey, and seeing the big picture is essential to succeed in weight loss. Counting calories, reading nutrition labels, avoiding processed sugars, and drinking plenty of fluids—these are all steps you need to take nearly every day if you want to achieve your goals. Weight loss only works in the long term if you treat it like a lifestyle change, not a temporary way of doing things. To achieve this, you’ll want to ensure that your goals are realistic, clear, and attainable.

Show Yourself Grace

Consistency doesn’t mean depriving yourself, and it doesn’t mean you have to start over if you have an off day. If you break from your routine for any reason, don’t quit—pick yourself back up and get back to it. Even if you have a bad week or month, there’s no wrong time to resume your weight-loss journey. Be kind to yourself, and be confident that you can achieve your goals. Being successful means being persistent and overcoming obstacles, and that’s the case in everything from weight loss to exercise.

Support Yourself Holistically

Your weight-loss journey requires a multi-front approach, and that means more than just eating certain foods and tracking calorie intake. To be successful in weight loss and achieve better health overall, you need to make sure that you’re exercising, drinking enough water, getting eight hours of sleep a night, and taking other steps to support your body. This would include getting regular chiropractic adjustments, which help your holistic health.

Don’t Go It Alone

Weight loss is a journey best undertaken with the support of others. Tell your friends and family about your goals and ambitions, and they’ll help lift you up and encourage you. You may even inspire people you love to start their own weight-loss journeys once they see how successful you are. You can also get support from professionals like personal trainers and coaches, who can offer tips and advice to help you achieve your weight-loss goals.

Markson Chiropractic Is Here to Help Your Weight-Loss Journey

If 2024 is the year you plan to get down to your goal weight, let Markson Chiropractic help. We can offer weight-loss tips and tricks to help guide you through your journey and support you with services like chiropractic care. If you’re ready, so are we—schedule an appointment online, call our team at (954) 472-7975, or stop in and visit us in Plantation, FL.

Do You Owe Pandemic-Era Freelance Taxes? IRS 2020 and 2021 Penalty Relief May Reduce Your Tax Burden

Anonymous — Mon, 08 Jan 2024 07:55:16 -0800

If you owe freelance back taxes from tax years 2020 or 2021, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS)has good news: it recently announced new tax penalty relief for individuals, businesses and tax-exempt organizations that were not sent automated collection reminder notices during the pandemic. The relief is significant, totaling nearly $1.0 billion.

The IRS tax relief applies to freelance taxes for 2020 and 2021 and due to the unprecedented effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. During this time, the IRS temporarily suspended the mailing of automated reminders to pay overdue tax bills. This process began in February 2022 as the automated IRS reminders would have normally been issued as a follow-up after the initial notice.

Although these reminder notices were suspended, the failure-to-pay penalty was not waived for taxpayers who did not fully pay their bills in response to the initial balance due notice. Additional letters and notices are expected to go out in the coming weeks to advise those taxpayers of the penalty relief.

The IRS is also taking steps to waive the failure-to-pay penalties for eligible taxpayers affected by this situation for tax years 2020 and 2021. The IRS estimates five million tax returns are eligible for penalty relief. If you are affected, as normal processes resume, you may receive a special IRS reminder letter that is being sent starting in January 2024. The letter will inform you of any liability, ways to pay it, and the amount of penalty relief, if applied.

IRS Actions and Timelines for Freelance Penalty Abatement

As a first step of the pandemic-era tax relief, the IRS has adjusted eligible individual accounts and will follow with adjustments to business accounts now through early January 2024. According to the IRS nearly 70 percent of the individual taxpayers receiving penalty relief have income under $100,000 per year.

The IRS is releasing Notice 2024-7 PDF, which explains how the agency is providing failure-to-pay penalty relief to eligible taxpayers affected by the COVID-19 pandemic to help them meet their federal tax obligations.

Important Information for Freelance Taxpayers: Penalty Relief is Automatic

If you believe your freelance tax situation may be affected by this news, beware that the penalty relief is automatic. Eligible taxpayers don't need to take any action to get it. If you already paid your full freelance tax balance, you will benefit from the relief, too, the IRS will issue a refund or credit the payment toward another outstanding tax liability.

Are There Exclusions for the IRS Penalty Relief for Tax Years 2020 and 2021?

The penalty relief only applies to eligible taxpayers with assessed tax under $100,000. Eligible taxpayers include individuals, businesses, trusts, estates and tax-exempt organizations that filed certain Forms 1040, 1120, 1041 and 990-T income tax returns for tax years 2020 or 2021, with an assessed tax of less than $100,000, and that were in the IRS collection notice process, or who were issued an initial balance due notice between Feb. 5, 2022, and Dec. 7, 2023. The $100,000 limit applies separately to each return and each entity. The failure-to-pay penalty will resume on April 1, 2024, for taxpayers eligible for relief.

If the automatic relief results in a refund or credit, individual and business taxpayers will be able to see it by viewing their tax transcript. The IRS will send the first round of refunds starting in late December 2023 through January 2024. If you do not receive a refund, and think that you should, watch for a special reminder notice which may be sent with an updated balance beginning in early 2024.

Resumption of tax collection notices begins in 2024

The IRS’s pause in collection mailings affected only follow-up reminder mailings. The IRS did not suspend the mailing of the first, or initial, balance due notices for taxpayers.

The pause meant that if you have a long-standing freelance tax debt and you have not received a formal letter or notice from the IRS in more than a year this may be because some of this older collection work has been paused. If you do receive a tax notice that shows you have a balance or are being assessed a penalty that you were not expecting, be sure to reach out to a tax professional who can accurately answer questions regarding penalty relief on 2020 or 2021 freelance tax returns.

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from Freelancers Union Blog https://blog.freelancersunion.org/2024/01/08/do-you-owe-pandemic-era-freelance-taxes-irs-2020-and-2021-penalty-relief-may-reduce-your-tax-burden/

Health Risks of Not Being Physically Active

Anonymous — Wed, 03 Jan 2024 08:55:52 -0800

This post is provided by our partner, MetroPlusHealth. Find affordable health plans for New Yorkers of all ages from MetroPlusHealth.

Not being physically active is a risk factor for health problems. If you aren't physically active, you are at higher risk for:

Cardiovascular disease
High blood pressure
Type 2 diabetes
Anxiety and depression
Some kinds of cancer

Facts about inactive lifestyles

Many deaths occur each year due to a lack of regular physical activity. Here are some facts:

More people tend to have an inactive lifestyle as they get older.
Women are more likely to have inactive lifestyles than men.
Non-Hispanic white adults are more likely to get physical activity.
Hispanic and African-American adults are less likely to get physical activity.

Getting active to prevent health problems

Being physically active has been shown to have many benefits. For example:

You are less likely to develop coronary heart disease. This is even if you smoke, drink alcohol, or don’t have a healthy diet.
People of size greatly reduce their risk for disease when they get regular physical activity.
Older adults who are active can reduce their risk for falls. They can improve their ability to do daily activities.

You can help prevent health problems caused by not being physically active. The CDC suggests that you:

Increase your amount of weight-bearing activities. Examples of this are running and walking.
Increase your amount of aerobic activity. This includes running, biking, or swimming.
Do strength training exercises twice a week.
Do aerobic activity all during the week. This means things that increase your heart rate.

The CDC suggests that adults with chronic conditions or disabilities do both of the activities below if they are able:

Spend at least 2.5 to 5 hours of time each week (for instance, 30 minutes for 5 days a week) on moderate-intensity aerobic activity.
Do muscle-strengthening activities that include all major muscle groups at least 2 days a week.

If you aren't active or you have chronic health problems, ask your healthcare provider how to safely increase the amount of your daily activity. Even a small daily increase can have health benefits.

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from Freelancers Union Blog https://blog.freelancersunion.org/2024/01/03/health-risks-of-not-being-physically-active/

Are there tumbleweeds in your freelance business?

Anonymous — Wed, 03 Jan 2024 08:55:51 -0800

We’ve all been there – the unbearable space between where you are and where you want to be in your business as a creative freelancer.

Perhaps the current version of your career or business feels too small, safe, and limiting. Maybe you’ve outgrown your clients, revenue, and business model. Maybe you’re not even sure what your business model is (hey, there’s no shame in this game, most of us start with the default model!).

You know there’s a next chapter waiting to be written – something more expansive, captivating, and motivating – but you’re darned if you know what that looks like or how to get there.

Can you relate?

Let’s give this unsettling place a name: The Wilderness.

Being in The Wilderness might manifest as feeling lost, overwhelmed, or having lost your mojo. Maybe you feel resentment, even shame that your profit and loss sheet does not reflect the talent, potential, and hard work you put in. The Wilderness can feel scary because we don’t know how big it is, how long it will last, or what it means/says about us.

As a business coach for creative freelancers (and a business owner myself), I’ve come to realize The Wilderness is somewhere we all visit. Rather than being something to fear, I’ve come to view it as a big old signpost that we need to make a change.

Ready to move through The Wilderness and fully embrace the next fulfilling and profitable chapter of your creative business or career?

Read on for three actionable steps to be on your merry way:

1) Get it out

When we’re in The Wilderness, we tend to turn inward, meaning we keep all the confusion, discomfort, and fear inside where it morphs, grows, and generally wreaks havoc. In the last 24 hours alone, I’ve coached two clients who, when presented with a well-placed question and non-judgmental space to talk, came to some profound realizations. In both cases, these insights unlocked the story that was holding them back from the next big thing and gave rise to some surprisingly simple next steps.

How might you get it out? Maybe your support person is a coach, partner, collaborator, and/or therapist.

Not a verbal processor or in a position to hire a coach or therapist? I’m a later-in-life convert to journaling, specifically the Morning Pages. The most important thing is that you get your ideas out so they can be processed in the light of day!

2) Hang out with folks further along than you

OK, this one can feel scary because you’re already feeling a little wobbly and now, I’m asking you to put yourself in the company of people that will make you feel even more stuck. Nope, not at all! This is about intentionally finding communities – from local networking groups to high-level masterminds, expert-led retreats, or coaching programs – that support individual and collective growth.

Caveat: there are a whole lot of “experts” out there promising the world and delivering very little. Choose your mentors, groups, and people wisely. Here are a few suggestions:

Check out the credentials of the professional or group. What is their experience? What is their process? How do they get results? E.g. if it means getting dragged out of bed at 2 a.m. for a fire walk, it’s probably a “no” for me. What are other people saying about the experience?
What is the quality and caliber of the people you’ll be in company with? Reach out to a past client or participant and ask them to share their experience as well as the results they got.
Do your homework. Ask lots of questions. Trust your instincts. Even a whiff of a cult-y charismatic leader should be heeded.

3. Do the thing

Exciting, expansive, and lucrative new chapters in your life and business don’t just happen. You’ve got to create something, put it out into the world, test and refine it, and do the whole thing again. This, my friends, is not for the faint of heart. But every great leap is on the other side of discomfort, vulnerability, and experimentation.

OK, that’s the pep talk. Now, how do you make it happen? Here are a few suggestions:

Clear the decks: What needs to go so you have the time, energy, and bandwidth to dedicate to a new idea or project? Maybe it’s a “legacy” client (you know, the one you’ve not raised your rates with for years for fear of losing that revenue).
Sketch out the simplest possible version of this offering. What do you need to put it out there? Do you need advice, more information, a resource, or an introduction? Who could help you?
Reach out to the folks you think could help and ask for what you need. Don’t forget to offer them the same should you be able to support them.
Put time in your calendar to do the work. Business advisor and author, Charlie Gilkey refers to this time as focus blocks and advises they be 90-120 minutes. For reference, the other blocks of time are social blocks, which are not what you might think i.e. hanging out with your friends, but your daily work (for me, coaching is a social block), recovery blocks, and admin blocks. If you’re anything like most folks, focus blocks are sorely lacking. Make sure you have at least 3 of those in your week.

Remember, The Wilderness is a place we all find ourselves at some point. As uncomfortable as it is, take the gift of this time, get curious, and try things out. After all, as a creative, and natural born problem-solver, this is the work you were made for. I’m rooting for, and I’m here to support you every step of the way!

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from Freelancers Union Blog https://blog.freelancersunion.org/2024/01/03/are-there-tumbleweeds-in-your-freelance-business/

Key Tax Changes Every Freelance Business Owner Should Know for Tax Years 2023 and 2024

Anonymous — Wed, 03 Jan 2024 08:55:51 -0800

Although no significant tax legislation was enacted in 2023, there were changes from 2022 tax legislation that will have an impact on 2023 tax returns as well as changes being announced for 2024. Here’s a quick run down to help you be prepared for the coming tax season and new year ahead.

The Inflation Reduction Act provided new or enhanced tax credits and deductions for individuals and businesses. For individuals, the two tax credits for energy-efficient home improvements were enhanced and extended.
The expanded Clean Vehicle Credit and new Previously Owned Clean Vehicle Credit mean that more types of used clean vehicles may qualify for that previously owned credit than qualify for the new vehicle credit. Changes to the Alternative Fuel Vehicle Refueling Property Credit limiting the credit to rural and lower-income areas may reduce the availability of that credit for many households.
There are 16 new or expanded clean energy credits and deductions for businesses which represent the most significant tax breaks made available for clean energy to date. The credits are increasingly tied to the resulting clean energy produced, rather than the particular source of the clean energy.
There are also prevailing wage and apprenticeship requirements apply for obtaining the maximum amount for many of the clean energy tax breaks. Many of the credits in the future can be transferred to an entity better able to utilize the credits, and nontaxable entities such as not-for-profits, tribal entities and government entities may qualify for elective payments rather than a credit.
SECURE 2.0, enacted as part of the year-end Appropriations Act in December 2022, made many changes to tax-advantaged retirement plans, including extending the age for required minimum distributions to age 73 for 2023 and reducing the penalties for failure to make required minimum distributions.
The Internal Revenue Service recently announced significant changes to the amount individuals can contribute to their 401(k) plans in 2024. The key changes to retirement contribution thresholds for 2024 include:

The contribution limit for employees who participate in 401(k), 403(b), most 457 plans, and the federal government's Thrift Savings Plan is increased to $23,000, up from $22,500 in 2023. The SEP-IRA contribution limit is always the same as the annual additions limit for a 401k plan. It is $66,000 in 2023, and it will increase to $69,000 in 2024.
The limit on annual contributions to an IRA increased to $7,000 in 2024, up from $6,500 in 2023. The IRA catch up contribution limit for individuals aged 50 and over is not subject to an annual cost of living adjustment and remains $1,000.

The catch-up contribution limit for employees aged 50 and over who participate in 401(k), 403(b), most 457 plans, and the federal government’s Thrift Savings Plan is increased to $7,000, up from $6,500. Therefore, participants in 401(k), 403(b), most 457 plans, and the federal government's Thrift Savings Plan who are 50 and older can contribute up to $30,000, starting in 2024. The catch-up contribution limit for employees aged 50 and over who participate in SIMPLE plans is increased to $3,500, up from $3,000.
Taxpayers can deduct contributions to a traditional IRA if they meet certain conditions. If during the year either the taxpayer or the taxpayer’s spouse was covered by a retirement plan at work, the deduction may be reduced, or phased out, until it is eliminated, depending on filing status and income. (If neither the taxpayer nor the spouse is covered by a retirement plan at work, the phase-outs of the deduction do not apply.)

If during the year either the taxpayer or the taxpayer’s spouse was covered by a retirement plan at work, the deduction may be reduced, or phased out, until it is eliminated, depending on filing status and income. (If neither the taxpayer nor the spouse is covered by a retirement plan at work, the phase-outs of the deduction do not apply.) The phase out ranges for 2024 are as follows:

For single taxpayers covered by a workplace retirement plan, the phase-out range is increased to between $77,000 and $87,000 [up from between $73,000 and $83,000].
For married couples filing jointly, if the spouse making the IRA contribution is covered by a workplace retirement plan, the phase-out range is increased to between $123,000 and $143,000 [up from between $116,000 and $136,000].
For an IRA contributor who is not covered by a workplace retirement plan and is married to someone who is covered, the phase-out range is increased to between $230,000 and $240,000 [up from between $218,000 and $228,000].
For a married individual filing a separate return who is covered by a workplace retirement plan, the phase-out range is not subject to an annual cost-of-living adjustment and remains between $0 and $10,000.
The income phase-out range for taxpayers making contributions to a Roth IRA is increased to between $146,000 and $161,000 for singles and heads of household [up from between $138,000 and $153,000].
For married couples filing jointly, the income phase-out range is increased to between $230,000 and $240,000 [up from between $218,000 and $228,000]. The phase-out range for a married individual filing a separate return who makes contributions to a Roth IRA is not subject to an annual cost-of-living adjustment and remains between $0 and $10,000.
The income limits for the Saver’s Credit (also known as the Retirement Savings Contributions Credit) for low- and moderate-income workers are:

$76,500 for married couples filing jointly [up from $73,000]
$57,375 for heads of household [up from $54,750]
$38,250 for singles and married individuals filing separately [up from $36,500]
The amount individuals can contribute to their SIMPLE retirement accounts is increased to $16,000 [up from $15,500].

Now is the time to look at year-end tax planning to see which of the above and other tax savings might be available to you. In addition, you can also ahead toward retirement planning so you can take advantage of both tax savings for 2023 and look ahead to maximizing savings for 2024. This will not only provide certain tax advantages, but it will also ensure that one day you have a comfortable retirement!

Remember to touch base with a qualified tax professional who can guide you appropriately in regard to these changes in relation to your specific tax situation.

Jonathan Medows is a NYC-based CPA who specializes in taxes for consultants across the country. His website has a resource section with how-to articles and information for freelancers. https://www.cpaforfreelancers.com/

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from Freelancers Union Blog https://blog.freelancersunion.org/2024/01/03/key-tax-changes-every-freelance-business-owner-should-know-for-tax-years-2023-and-2024/

Kick Off the New Year With Chiropractic

Dr. Markson — Tue, 02 Jan 2024 06:00:00 -0800

2024 is underway, and it’s the perfect time to kick off good habits for the new year ahead. One of the best things you can do for your health all new year long is take advantage of the benefits of chiropractic care. Let’s explore why you should start seeing a chiropractor in 2024.

Why You Should Try Chiropractic in the New Year

It’s not uncommon for people to think the only reason why you’d see a chiropractor is because you’re in pain. But even if you already feel pretty good, chiropractic care can support you in the new year by keeping you healthy and addressing issues you may not even know are there.

Chiropractic care works in three phases of relief. The first is pain relief, and the second is correcting issues that cause pain and restoring function to the body. If you’re already in good health, you enter the third phase: Wellness. When you reach this stage, regular adjustments provide continued support by protecting your spine, joints, and muscles. It’s a great help if you’ve recently started a fitness and nutrition program, helping keep you active so you can continue to make progress and build good habits over the new year.

Of course, being in pain is a good reason why you should see a chiropractor. The doctors at Markson Chiropractic can find the source of your pain, correct the issue, and ensure that the pain doesn’t come back. In addition to our years of practicing, we leverage advanced tools like the ProAdjuster, which helps us accurately determine if you are in proper alignment.

Start Good Habits in the New Year With Markson Chiropractic

We know that you may have questions about chiropractic care if you’ve never gotten adjusted before, and we’d love the opportunity to demonstrate what treatment can do for you. The team at Markson Chiropractic can help you start good, new habits for the year ahead, including building a better nutrition and fitness routine and supporting your hard work with massage and regular adjustments. If you’d like to know more about what we can do to help, schedule an appointment online, call us at (954) 472-7975, or stop by our offices in Plantation, FL.

Why Try Regenerative Medicine in 2024

Dr. Daner — Tue, 26 Dec 2023 11:23:00 -0800

This is the point in the year when we turn our thoughts toward self-improvement and self-betterment. If you’re dealing with the effects of a lingering injury or chronic pain, you have more of an uphill battle than most. But Markson Chiropractic can help you get to where you want to be in 2024 with regenerative medicine, an innovative and non-invasive alternative that can help you recover from an injury without surgery.

Why Try Regenerative Medicine in 2024

Regenerative medicine can be a powerful tool for patients looking to recover from an injury and get back at the top of their game. We recommend regenerative therapy for a variety of common conditions, up to and including sprains or tears of knee ligaments, rotator cuff damage, and chronic lower back pain.

Even if your pain is severe, regenerative medicine may be able to provide relief and healing in as little as a few weeks from your first treatment. The process is quite simple—a single injection might be all it takes, and treatment often comes with little or no side effects. Our products are FDA-tested in CLIA-registered labs and contain only stem cells from healthy, full-term deliveries.

But there’s no greater evidence that regenerative medicine works than hearing it from the people whose lives have been affected for the better. Take, for example, Sylvia M., whom we met at one of our seminars. She was looking for an alternative to knee replacement surgery, and she found it in regenerative therapy.

“Since getting stem cell therapy at Markson, I feel better every day and can do things I couldn't do before,” she told us. “I'm also looking forward to my continued progress."

Learn More About Regenerative Medicine in Plantation, FL

The team at Markson Chiropractic takes great pride in helping our patients, and regenerative medicine is one of the most innovative services we offer if you’re looking for a pain-free surgery alternative. We know that you may have questions about regenerative medicine and how it can fit into your wellness journey, and we’d be all too happy to show you what stem cell therapy can do. You can schedule an appointment online, call us at (954) 472-7975, or visit our offices in Plantation, FL, to get started.

WHO releases chronic low back pain guidelines

Simone Lai — Fri, 22 Dec 2023 08:23:42 -0800

Earlier this month, the World Health Organization (WHO) released its first-ever guidelines on chronic low back pain (CLBP), based on chiropractor-led input and research helmed by the Canadian Chiropractic Guidelines Initiative (CCGI).

Low back pain is a global health concern and is the leading cause of disability globally across all ages and in both sexes.

In 2020, approximately one in 13 people globally experienced low back pain (LBP).The WHO guidelines for non-surgical management of chronic primary low back pain in adults in primary and community care settings will provide evidence-based recommendations on nonsurgical interventions for chronic primary LBP (CPLBP) in adults, including older people, that can be delivered in primary and community care settings to improve CPLBP-related health and well-being outcomes. 

The Canadian Chiropractic Association (CCA) congratulates its partners the CCGI and CCA members Dr. Pierre Côté and Dr. Geoffrey Outerbridge. The CCGI team led four systematic reviews and noted, “It’s an opportune time for chiropractors to collaborate with primary care clinicians and policymakers!” The CCA supports and applauds the valuable resources made available in the guidelines and acknowledges the extensive research undertaken in its development.

The guidelines will be of use to clinical staff including medical doctors, nurses, allied health workers including chiropractors, occupational therapists, physiotherapists, pharmacists, psychologists and community health workers, as well as public health programme and system managers.

With the guidelines, the WHO recommends non-surgical interventions to help people experiencing chronic primary LBP. These interventions include:

education programs that support knowledge and self-care strategies;
exercise programs;
some physical therapies, such as spinal manipulative therapy and massage;
psychological therapies, such as cognitive behavioural therapy; and
medicines, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medicines.

The guidelines were critical of the use of pharmacological interventions such as opioid painkillers, “which can be associated with overdose and dependence.”

In a statement shared on the WHO website, Dr. Anshu Banerjee, WHO Director for Maternal, Newborn, Child, Adolescent Health and Ageing states, “We are using this guideline as a tool to support a holistic approach to chronic low back pain care and to improve the quality, safety and availability of care.”

To access the guideline and additional executive summary, please visit the WHO here.

The post WHO releases chronic low back pain guidelines appeared first on Canadian Chiropractic Association (CCA).

First-Ever Photo Hub: Giving Access to State-of-the-Art Equipment and Studio Space for Freelancers

Anonymous — Thu, 21 Dec 2023 10:55:17 -0800

Freelancers Union joins American Society of Media Photographers and MPB to Launch the Photo Hub, a State-of-the-art Studio and Equipment Facility for Photographers.

Brooklyn, NY - The barriers to entry for aspiring photographers just got a whole lot lower, thanks to a groundbreaking partnership between the Freelancers Union, the American Society of Media Photographers (ASMP) New York, and MPB, the largest global platform to buy, sell and trade used photo and video gear. In a move to democratize access to high-quality photography equipment and studio space, the collaborative effort introduces the Photo Hub at the Freelancers Hub, nestled in Industry City, Brooklyn.

Embarking on a career in photography often comes with a daunting price tag, where the cost of a decent camera alone can easily exceed $600, not to mention the additional expenses for studio lighting, lenses, backdrops, and more. Addressing this access and equity challenge, the Photo Hub emerges as a beacon of affordability and convenience, offering an extensive suite of photography equipment at the fingertips of creatives.

"We're thrilled to have partnered with ASMP and MPB to provide our members with a gateway to refine their photography skills and unleash their creative potential," said Executive Director Rafael Espinal. "The Photo Hub represents an inclusive space where photographers of all levels can access top-notch equipment and professional studio facilities to bring their visions to life."

“ASMP's Mission is to empower visual content creators. Photography is a competitive and expensive industry and creatives entering the space face many hurdles including money and access. With access to this studio and gear we hope that members will have one less roadblock to bringing their creative vision to life,” said Liam Alexander ASMP NY Chapter President.

“We are so excited to help make Photo Hub a reality," said MPB's Vice President of Marketing Tammy Oler. "MPB is committed to making camera gear more accessible and affordable for everyone, and we believe that collaborations like this are vital to recognizing and removing barriers to inclusive storytelling. We can’t wait to see the work photographers are going to create using Photo Hub.”

“Tenant collaborations like this are core to the Industry City story,” said Jeff Fein, Senior Vice President of Leasing at Industry City. “When two IC business owners meet over coffee or at a mixer on campus, it tends to spark something great, and you end up with an idea like the Photo Hub. This project will open doors for newcomers to their industry, create value for their members, and hopefully grow the creative community here at IC.”

The Photo Hub, situated within the Freelancers Hub, presents an invaluable opportunity for ASMP NY and Freelancers Union members to rent the studio space for diverse photoshoots encompassing fashion, headshots, product photography, and beyond. Notably, ASMP members gain exclusive access to the studio space free of charge (by requesting their unique booking code via email), while Freelancers Union members can avail themselves of the space at a discounted rate of $60/hour, inclusive of comprehensive access to all Photo Hub equipment.

Location, location, location. Industry City is a mecca for creative opportunities as both major organizations are headquartered there. Freelancers’ Union is located in Industry City’s Building 1, a 4,500 square-foot co-working and arts space. MPB is a tenant in Industry City’s Building 7 with a 35,000-square-foot office and warehouse.

For more information and to explore the Photo Hub's offerings, please visit https://freelancershub.simplybook.me/v2/.

Freelancers Union

Freelancers Union is the largest and fastest-growing organization representing the 60 million independent workers across the country. It gives its over 500,000 members a voice through policy advocacy, benefits, online resources, and educational and community-building events in nearly two dozen cities. Since its founding, Freelancers Union has fought for and won protections for freelance workers, including the first-of-its-kind Freelance Isn’t Free Act in New York City, which gives freelancers unprecedented protection from nonpayment and underpayment. In 2018, Freelancers Union launched Freelancers Hub, a free coworking space and training and resource center for freelancers, with support from the NYC Mayor’s Office of Media and Entertainment. Learn more at www.freelancersunion.org.

American Society of Media Photographers (ASMP) New York Chapter

ASMP is the home for Visual Content Creators. Whether you’re a photographer, YouTuber, filmmaker, enthusiast, or a student who wants a career in the fast-changing and diverse visual content creation landscape, ASMP is built to help you succeed. Together, our community of more than 6,500 Members provides a platform for education, advocacy, and meaningful change. Learn more at www.asmpny.org

MPB

MPB transforms the way people buy, sell and trade used photo and video gear. As the largest global platform for used photography and videography equipment, MPB is a destination for everyone, whether you’ve just discovered your passion for visual storytelling or you’re already a pro.

Founded by Matt Barker in 2011, MPB has always been committed to making gear more accessible and affordable, and building a more sustainable future. MPB recirculates nearly half a million used products every year, extending the life and creative potential of photo and video equipment for creators around the world.

Headquartered in the creative communities of Brooklyn, Brighton and Berlin, the MPB team includes trained camera experts and seasoned photographers and videographers who bring their passion to work every day to deliver outstanding service.

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from Freelancers Union Blog https://blog.freelancersunion.org/2023/12/21/christmas-comes-early-for-nyc-photographers-with-launch-of-first-ever-photo-hub-giving-access-to-hristmas-comes-early-for-nyc-photographers-with-launch-of-first-ever-photo-hub-giving-ac/

New Year's Resolutions for Better Health

Dr. Hoder — Tue, 19 Dec 2023 11:23:00 -0800

It’s that time of (almost a new) year again. If one of your goals for 2024 is to improve your health, you need to make sure your New Year’s resolutions put you in a position to succeed. With the right resolutions focused on fitness, diet, and overall wellness, you can make the new year one of your best ever.

Setting New Year’s Resolutions for Better Health

Realistic Resolutions for Fitness and Nutrition

One of the easiest ways to get discouraged and drop New Year’s resolutions focusing on fitness or eating better is setting the bar too high. If you have unrealistic or unclear goals, you may become frustrated and revert to bad habits, so you need to be practical. Start small and be pragmatic—stick to a plan to work out 30 minutes a day three days a week and start tracking your calories and nutrients. If you get into these habits, you’ll start to see progress, which allows you to set your ambitions higher. And if you need help getting the ball rolling, you can always try exercise and nutritional counseling at Markson Chiropractic.

Take a Holistic Approach to Wellness in the New Year

If your New Year’s resolutions are focused on health and wellness, it really helps to see the forest for the trees. While consistently eating better and exercising is great, you won’t get the kind of results you want if you’re not supporting your goals in other ways. Getting a full eight hours of sleep every night and drinking at least eight glasses of water every day are great ways to support your health journey and make great resolutions for the new year on their own. What’s more, you can make 2024 a year where you invest in your health and wellness with new habits like regular chiropractic adjustments or massages.

Markson Chiropractic Can Help You Focus on Health in 2024

The new year is almost here, and with the right resolution in place and in practice, you can make 2024 a year of better health and wellness. Whether your resolutions are focused on fitness, nutrition, recovering from an injury, or just feeling better, Markson Chiropractic is here to help. Simply schedule your next appointment online or call us at (954) 472-7975 to get started in Plantation, FL.

Organize Your Way to Tax Day: 5 Steps for Success

Anonymous — Tue, 19 Dec 2023 10:56:32 -0800

Whether you file early or wait until the tax deadline, there are simple things you can do today to help you cruise through tax season. Use the following five tips to start getting organized.

Step 1: Know when your tax documents will arrive

Your tax forms should arrive in the mail starting in January. When the forms start to arrive, take a moment to pull out a file folder, label it, and set it somewhere safe. As new tax documents come in, add each one to your new Tax Day folder so everything you need is in one place.

Most common tax forms are sent out by late January, so if you’re missing a W-2 or 1099 in mid-February, go ahead and track it down. Having everything you need in one place sets you up for a Tax Day win.

Step 2: Review your year’s milestones

Did you get married this year? Have a baby? Buy a house or car? If you made a big life change, congratulations!

Since Uncle Sam isn’t a traditional “cool uncle,” don’t expect a gift from your registry. Instead, you might need some additional documentation and possibly extra tax forms.

For example, if you got married, check that your filing name matches what’s on your social security card. If you moved, make sure you update your address — you can do that as you file. You’ll also want to decide how you and your spouse will file this year. Your choices are married filing jointly or married filing separately.

Remember, whether you tied the knot at New Year’s brunch in January or right before the ball dropped in December, the IRS considers you married for the entire year. Make sure your information reflects that!

Step 3: Consider if you’ll itemize

A majority of taxpayers tend to take the standard deduction. However, if your itemized deductions add up to more than the standard deduction you qualify to claim, it might be a better idea to itemize.

When you file with TaxAct^®, we can help you run the numbers each way to see which choice works best for you.

Here are the standard deduction rates for tax year 2023 in comparison with 2022:

Filing status	2023 standard deduction	2022 standard deduction
Single	$13,850	$12,950
Married filing jointly	$27,700	$25,900
Married filing separately	$13,850	$12,950
Head of household	$20,800	$19,400

Planning to itemize? Get started organizing your expense receipts from the year. An easy way to combine digital and hard copies is to snap, save, and sort them into your phone’s photo albums. That way, they’re all in one place.

Know you’ll take the standard deduction? Nice. Sit back, relax, and skip receipt gathering altogether.

Step 4: Set time aside to file

Life is hectic. And somehow, the second you sit down to do your taxes is when that chaos escalates.

Show your schedule who’s boss. Try clearing a designated block of time on your calendar to file. Go all out! Schedule a playdate for the kids, put on some motivating music, and get down to business.

By assigning that time now, you remove the “When will I prepare my taxes?!” stress from your life. And when the time rolls around, you’ll have an environment that lets you focus.

Step 5: Find a tax partner that helps you succeed

TaxAct is designed to help you hang on to more of what’s already yours. We’ll walk you through each section of your taxes, step by step, prompting you with tips for deductions and credits that you may not know about.

Best of all, our tax preparation solutions help you to prepare your taxes quickly so that you can get back to your life. Isn’t that the kind of partner you want in your corner on Tax Day?

We’re ready to help you succeed.

Main takeaways

By addressing little things early and clearing away potential filing obstacles, when you sit down to prepare taxes in a few months there’ll be nothing standing between you and filing success — except maybe a pile of snacks. And who are we kidding? You’ll need those.

This article is for informational purposes only and not legal or financial advice.

All TaxAct offers, products and services are subject to applicable terms and conditions.

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from Freelancers Union Blog https://blog.freelancersunion.org/2023/12/19/organize-your-way-to-tax-day-5-steps-for-success/

How yoga can help ease your pain

Simone Lai — Tue, 19 Dec 2023 10:01:00 -0800

Yoga is a helpful tool for physical and mental well-being. It combines stretching, strength, and meditation to ease stress in the body and promote strength, flexibility, and relaxation. But, did you know yoga also has the potential to help you with your pain?

There have been a number of studies published on the association between yoga and its effects on low back pain and chronic pain.¹²³ In each study, there were benefits observed both in the short-term and long-term to varying degrees. The bottom line was that an element of active care, which can include yoga, can improve outcomes when you’re suffering from pain.

Taking an active role in your health has been shown to improve your pain more effectively. With yoga, the benefits come from the combination of controlled breathing, body and posture awareness, meditation, strength, and flexibility.

Studies continue to investigate the benefits of mind-body exercises like yoga. For right now, there’s no harm in trying this type of exercise out to help complement your pain management program as long as you practice safely.

It’s important to take safety steps when you undertake any new exercise, particularly if you have any problem areas. Here are a few safety tips that are good for both new and seasoned yogis³:

Yoga Safety Tips

Practice with a pro: Always take classes with a certified instructor. Often, they’ll go through a number of modifications throughout a class to accommodate different levels of fitness and flexibility.
Speak up: Let your instructor know about injuries or concerns before class. They might be able to offer you specific modifications while the class is in progress.
Don’t be afraid to stop: Sometimes, modifications don’t work for you. Stop doing any poses/positions that make the pain worse. You can wait until the next posture if something is causing you pain. There should be no pain in yoga.
Consult an expert: If you plan on doing yoga at home, work with or consult an instructor first. Also, consider consulting a healthcare provider who is familiar with your case and can guide you through which areas to stretch and strengthen and which to avoid.

Yoga is just one form of active care. A combination of active (e.g., exercise) and passive (e.g., treatment from a healthcare provider) care have been found to be the most effective in treating pain.

There are a number of different activities that fall under the umbrella of active care. To know what exercises or postures are right for you, consult your family chiropractor.

Find a chiropractor near you

References

1. Chou R, Deyo R, Friedly J, et al. Nonpharmacologic therapies for low back pain: a systematic review for an American College of Physicians Clinical Practice Guideline. Ann Intern Med. 2017;166(7):493-505. doi:7326/m16-2459.

2. Brämberg E, Bergström G, Jensen I, Hagberg J, Kwak L. Effects of yoga, strength training and advice on back pain: a randomized controlled trial. BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders. 2017;18:132. doi:1186/s12891-017-1497-1.

3. Achilefu A, Joshi K, Meier M, McCarthy LH. Yoga and other meditative movement therapies to reduce chronic pain. J Okla State Med Assoc. 2017;110(1):14-6.

The post How yoga can help ease your pain appeared first on Canadian Chiropractic Association (CCA).

Stress Can Increase Your Risk for Heart Disease

Anonymous — Wed, 13 Dec 2023 09:55:52 -0800

Stress is a normal part of life. Stress can come from physical causes like not getting enough sleep or having an illness. Another cause for stress can be emotional, like worrying about not having enough money or the death of a loved one. Stress can also come from less dramatic causes, like everyday obligations and pressures that make you feel that you're not in control.

Your body’s response to stress is supposed to protect you. But if it's constant, it can harm you. The hormone cortisol is released in response to stress. Studies suggest that the high levels of cortisol from long-term stress can increase blood cholesterol, triglycerides, blood sugar, and blood pressure. These are common risk factors for heart disease. This stress can also cause changes that promote the buildup of plaque deposits in the arteries.

Even minor stress can trigger heart problems like poor blood flow to the heart muscle. This is a condition in which the heart doesn't get enough blood or oxygen. And long-term stress can affect how the blood clots. This makes the blood stickier and increases the risk of stroke.

In addition, people who have a lot of stress may smoke or choose other unhealthy ways to deal with stress.

Common responses to stress include:

Aches and pains
Decreased energy and sleep
Feelings of anxiety, anger, and depression
Impatience
Forgetfulness

People respond to stressful situations differently. Some react strongly to a situation. Others are relaxed and unconcerned. Luckily, you can decrease the effect of stress on your body. First, identify situations that cause stress. Although difficult, try to control your mental and physical reactions to these stressful situations. Try the following to help manage stress and keep your heart healthy.

Get plenty of exercise

Exercise can help counteract the harmful effects of stress. For heart health, aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week. This can be done in 30-minute sessions, 5 days a week. Exercise can help to improve cardiovascular health by controlling weight, improving cholesterol, and lowering blood pressure. Exercise has another benefit that lowers stress. People who exercise have a reduced physical response to stress. Their blood pressure and heart rates don't go up as high as people under stress who don't exercise.

Regular exercise can also reduce the risk of depression, another risk factor for heart disease.

Need exercise motivation? Get a pedometer and try to walk 10,000 to 12,000 steps per day. This may also help you maintain your weight. With a pedometer, you get instant feedback and credit for all you do, such as taking the stairs instead of the elevator.

Build a strong support system

Research suggests that having a strong support network, like being married, having someone you can talk to and trust, or belonging to organizations or a religion, can reduce your stress level and your risk of heart disease.

If you already have heart disease, this same network can help reduce your risk for heart attack. Having at least one person you can rely on takes a heavy burden off you and provides comfort.

A strong support system helps you take better care of yourself, too. Research shows that a lack of social support increases the chance of engaging in unhealthy behaviors like smoking, eating a high-fat diet, and drinking too much alcohol.

Get treatment for constant depression or anxiety

Depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions can increase your risk of dying from heart disease, if you already have it.

Research suggests that long-term anxiety or emotional stress can increase the risk for sudden cardiac death. To reduce your anxiety level, try activities that reduce stress like yoga, walking meditation, traditional meditation, guided imagery, or other methods. Look for classes in your area. Alcohol, tobacco, and caffeine can increase feelings of anxiety and increase your stress and blood pressure. Cutting back or quitting these substances may help decrease your anxiety and stress. Talk with your healthcare provider if you have feelings of depression or anxiety. Ask about medicines that can help.

Reduce work stress

Studies show having a demanding job that offers you few opportunities to make decisions or provides little reward can increase your risk for heart disease. Stress at work becomes even more of a problem when you don't have a strong support system or you have long-term anxiety.

If you can't find a different position within your company, do what you can to gain control over your environment. Try to take some time away from work every day. Do something that is relaxing and that you enjoy. It may be reading, walking, or deep breathing. Your employer may offer an employee assistance program (EAP) to help you manage stress and anxiety. A counselor can help advise strategies to help you lower your work-related stress.

If you think you're at an increased risk for heart disease because of stress in your life, talk with your provider. They may advise counseling, classes, or other programs to help you lower your stress level and your risk for heart disease.

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from Freelancers Union Blog https://blog.freelancersunion.org/2023/12/13/stress-can-increase-your-risk-for-heart-disease-2/

The holiday season is coming – how beginner freelancers can make the most of it

Anonymous — Wed, 13 Dec 2023 09:55:52 -0800

I still remember the thrill of getting my first ever freelance assignment – after 3 whole months spent creating and perfecting proposals, I had finally made it. Someone thought I was the best fit for their project. They chose ME.

It was December 21^st, 2011. In hindsight, I think the timing helped a lot. It was a $20 gig, and as an established freelancer, I know now I wouldn’t go through the process of setting up a new client for that small of a sum 4 days before Christmas.

Which leads us to the point – as a beginner freelancer, the holiday season is a potential goldmine for you.

When nobody is working, who’s there to save the day?

It’s one of the beautiful things about freelancing – you can choose when to work. And established freelancers choose indeed. After a profitable year, do you think they are going to take that $50 project that arrives on December 28^th and is due on December 27^th?

Nah.

I asked a few clients of mine, just to double-check my theory. They all confirmed. Finding freelancers to take on jobs during the holidays can quickly turn into a nightmare.

And that is where you come in as a beginner.

Let me be clear – you are not making this for the money. And I don’t recommend freelancers to skip the holidays – I don’t want anyone to end up burned out from reading this article.

I want you to be available at a time of the year when (almost) nobody is, so that you can take projects nobody wants.

Our clients are just like us – they’re humans. If you are there to save their day on Christmas Eve, they will remember you on January the 28^th, when a big project comes that’s right up your alley.

Reciprocation is a growth hack!

The big question is… how can you let them know you will be available?

The perfect email campaign

You are lucky, because in this case, the best way is also the simplest one – send them an email! More specifically, plan a small cold email outreach campaign and execute it.

There is a perfect timing for this, and it goes from December 1^st to December 15^th. Earlier than that, you risk potential clients to forget it. Later than that, they’ll probably be too busy to even notice.

Deliver the great news right in the subject line – This freelancer is available throughout the holidays!

In my experience, this works better with agencies. They tend to have a wider client base, possibly in different countries, including some where being open during the holidays is perfectly normal.

But I am not just talking about potential clients. Quite the opposite. This is also a perfect opportunity to get back in touch with previous clients of yours who’ve been dormant for a while.

They know you and the quality work you deliver. If they are open during the holidays, they’ll be very happy to know you will be there to support them.

Extra tip: if you are not sure whether or not they’ll stay open, check the email signature of your contacts within the organization. Usually, it has all the info you need.

Not ready to take on projects yet?

What if you are an aspiring freelancer, not yet ready to take on work? Maybe you are starting to freelance as a side hustle. Maybe you are suffering from imposter syndrome. Whatever the reason, if that’s your case, the holidays can still be a fruitful time for your freelance business!

Here are a few ways you can make the most of your time off:

Start creating a list of potential clients you’d love to work with, then research who the contact person would be within the company. That’s who you should target.
Take a hard look at your promotional materials and professional profiles. Are they up to date? Is their quality good enough? Now is the time to fix any potential issues.
Create a roadmap for the new year, with a list of small, easy-to-accomplish goals for each month. It’ll help you tremendously to stay the course, even when you don’t feel like your business is going anywhere.
Get a photograph! If you have a LinkedIn profile, you need a headshot. And if you don’t, what are you waiting for? Go create it!
Take a course. You are unlikely to find any live webinars running during the holidays, but there are several options for on-demand training online you can take at any time of the year.

(If you have one you’ve been eyeing for quite a while, you may even ‘suggest’ someone to get it to you as a Christmas present)

The holiday season is coming – are you ready to make the most of it?

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from Freelancers Union Blog https://blog.freelancersunion.org/2023/12/13/the-holiday-season-is-coming-how-beginner-freelancers-can-make-the-most-of-it/

Decreased 1099-K Reporting Thresholds in 2024 May Increase Your Freelance Tax Obligations

Anonymous — Tue, 12 Dec 2023 11:55:28 -0800

Over the past several years, there has been a debate over changes to the Form 1099-K reporting threshold. The 1099-K is a form that was introduced in 2022 for third-party payment platforms such as Etsy, Shopify, and other e-commerce platforms to report the sales their users transact each year for income tax purposes.

If your freelance business generates income and receives payments through these platforms you need to be aware that the changes to the reporting thresholds that were slated for 2022 (and again in 2023), from $20,000 in annual gross sales to trigger reporting to $600 have not yet been instituted. It is extremely important regardless of these changes that you track and report all income you generate from these platforms.

It is anticipated that for calendar year 2024 a phased-in approach will be instituted. This will change the current de minimis threshold from $20,000 (and over 200 reportable transactions) to $600. The change was considered drastic, prompting the IRS to back off on enforcing the new Form 1009-K rules and try to implement a stepwise approach instead.

The proposed 1099-K compromise recently announced will not affect freelance tax filings for 2023. If the proposal is accepted, the $600 threshold will be reached over time, with the threshold for 2024 set at $5,000. To make sure your freelance tax filings are in compliance with these reporting rules, review the following facts about 1099-K reporting:

The IRS has clarified that reportable transactions on Form 1099-K, including those business transactions (not personal transactions between family and friends) taking place through “online and social media marketplaces, craft or maker marketplaces, auction sites, resale sites, crowdfund crowdfunding platforms and freelance marketplace.”
Currently, the reporting threshold applies when a taxpayer completes more than 200 business transactions per year, exceeding an aggregate amount of $20,000. Note that this does not apply to personal transactions between friends or family members for incidental, personal purchases.
Tracking and reporting all 1099-K income is mandatory.

There will likely be further clarification on the 1099-K thresholds and reporting in the near future, so stay tuned for updates.

Now that you know about changes to 1099-Ks affecting freelancers, these tips can help you with your own 1099 reporting:

Remember that you need to report all freelance business income on your tax return no matter where it is derived from. For example, if you received payments labeled as “goods and services” from one or more TPSOs in the amount of $600 or more you will receive a 1099-K because these apps have separate accounts allowing users to identify which of their transactions are for goods and services. These are the only transactions labeled as such that will be considered for the 1099-K form.
Be sure to report all income on your freelance tax return unless it is excluded by law, whether they receive a Form 1099-NEC, Nonemployee Compensation; Form 1099-K; or any other information return.

Make sure to factor in any income from third-party payment platforms in your estimated tax payments at the federal, state, and local levels.

You must pay tax on the money you earn or receive from activities occurring on TPSOs throughout the year, either through withholding or estimated tax payments. If these payments are in addition to a W-2 job or pension, and your tax withholding for these income streams is not enough, you will need to make additional estimated tax payments.

If you have multiple revenue streams from third-party payment or e-commerce apps and other sources, it is vital that you can accurately track and report all of the transactions you are facilitating. This will help protect you in the case of an audit and give you the most accurate numbers that you can use to plan for the year ahead.

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from Freelancers Union Blog https://blog.freelancersunion.org/2023/12/12/decreased-1099-k-reporting-thresholds-in-2024-may-increase-your-freelance-tax-obligations/

Get a Massage for a Natural Energy Boost

Dr. Markson — Tue, 12 Dec 2023 11:22:00 -0800

We love the magic of the holiday season, but it sure can be draining. If you find yourself lagging and are looking for a natural way to boost energy levels, massage therapy may be a big help. With the help of one of the excellent massage therapists at Markson Chiropractic, you can look forward to all your upcoming get-togethers knowing you’ll have energy enough for it all.

How Massage Can Help Give You a Natural Energy Boost

Starting with the obvious, getting a massage just leaves you feeling good. It can relieve pain, tension, and stress and put you in a better mood. And that alone is enough to give your energy levels a natural boost once you leave your appointment. A nice, relaxing massage before a big day can help you feel focused and engaged, which is great whether you need to concentrate on a project at work or be on at a social gathering.

What’s more, the relaxing, restorative qualities of massage therapy give you the power you need to get a natural energy boost in other ways. For example, the relaxed feeling that comes over you after a massage can help you get a better night’s rest, which will result in waking up more refreshed and ready to face the day. You can use that energy to crush your goals throughout the day, which leaves you more time to focus on self-care, fitness, and other things that may provide a natural energy boost.

And massage therapy works in sync with other energy-boosting treatments you can get at Markson Chiropractic, including chiropractic care. Using massage in conjunction with a custom fitness program or IV Nutrition Therapy can help you increase your energy levels and stay energized all year round.

Try Massage Therapy at Markson Chiropractic in Plantation, FL

Massage therapy can be helpful if you’re looking to get a natural energy boost, and it’s just one of the many excellent services and products we offer patients in Plantation, FL. If you want to increase your energy levels and be at the top of your game, schedule an appointment at Markson Chiropractic or give us a call at (954) 472-7975.

IRS announces delay in Form 1099-K reporting threshold for third party platform payments in 2023; plans for a threshold of $5,000 for 2024 to phase in implementation

Anonymous — Wed, 06 Dec 2023 12:55:43 -0800

IR-2023-221, Nov. 21, 2023

WASHINGTON — Following feedback from taxpayers, tax professionals and payment processors and to reduce taxpayer confusion, the Internal Revenue Service today released Notice 2023-74 announcing a delay of the new $600 Form 1099-K reporting threshold for third party settlement organizations for calendar year 2023.

As the IRS continues to work to implement the new law, the agency will treat 2023 as an additional transition year. This will reduce the potential confusion caused by the distribution of an estimated 44 million Forms 1099-K sent to many taxpayers who wouldn't expect one and may not have a tax obligation. As a result, reporting will not be required unless the taxpayer receives over $20,000 and has more than 200 transactions in 2023.

Given the complexity of the new provision, the large number of individual taxpayers affected and the need for stakeholders to have certainty with enough lead time, the IRS is planning for a threshold of $5,000 for tax year 2024 as part of a phase-in to implement the $600 reporting threshold enacted under the American Rescue Plan (ARP).

Following feedback from the tax community, the IRS is also looking to make updates to the Form 1040 and related schedules for 2024 that would make the reporting process easier for taxpayers. Changes to the Form 1040 series – the core tax form for more than 150 million taxpayers – are complex and take time; delaying changes to tax year 2024 allows for additional feedback.

"We spent many months gathering feedback from third party groups and others, and it became increasingly clear we need additional time to effectively implement the new reporting requirements," said IRS Commissioner Danny Werfel. "Taking this phased-in approach is the right thing to do for the purposes of tax administration, and it prevents unnecessary confusion as we continue to look at changes to the Form 1040. It's clear that an additional delay for tax year 2023 will avoid problems for taxpayers, tax professionals and others in this area."

The ARP required third party settlement organizations (TPSOs), which include popular payment apps and online marketplaces, to report payments of more than $600 for the sale of goods and services on a Form 1099-K starting in 2022. These forms would go to the IRS and to taxpayers and would help taxpayers fill out their tax returns. Before the ARP, the reporting requirement applied only to the sale of goods and services involving more than 200 transactions per year totaling over $20,000.

The IRS temporarily delayed the new requirement last year.

Reporting requirements do not apply to personal transactions such as birthday or holiday gifts, sharing the cost of a car ride or meal, or paying a family member or another for a household bill. These payments are not taxable and should not be reported on Form 1099-K.

However, the casual sale of goods and services, including selling used personal items like clothing, furniture and other household items for a loss, could generate a Form 1099-K for many people, even if the seller has no tax liability from those sales.

This complexity in distinguishing between these types of transactions factored into the IRS decision to delay the reporting requirements an additional year and to plan for a threshold of $5,000 for 2024 in order to phase in implementation. The IRS invites feedback on the threshold of $5,000 for tax year 2024 and other elements of the reporting requirement, including how best to focus reporting on taxable transactions.

"The IRS will use this additional time to continue carefully crafting a way forward to minimize burden," Werfel said. "We want to make this as easy as possible for taxpayers. We will work to make the new reporting requirements easier for them, and we'll work closely with third party groups, tax professionals and others to find the smoothest path to ensure compliance with the law. This is consistent with our Strategic Operating Plan. The IRS is focused on meeting taxpayers where they are and helping them get it right the first time."

Expanded information reporting, which will occur as the result of the change in thresholds for Form 1099-K, is important because it increases tax compliance and can reduce burden on taxpayers seeking to follow the law. The IRS believes that expansion must be managed carefully to help ensure that Forms 1099-K are issued only to taxpayers who should receive them. In addition, it's important that taxpayers understand what to do as a result of this reporting, and that tax professionals and software providers have the information they need to assist taxpayers.

The IRS will continue to provide information on IRS.gov/1099k.

Fact Sheet 2023-27 contains more details about this announcement.

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from Freelancers Union Blog https://blog.freelancersunion.org/2023/12/06/irs-announces-delay-in-form-1099-k-reporting-threshold-for-third-party-platform-payments-in-2023-plans-for-a-threshold-of-5-000-for-2024-to-phase-in-implementation/

Try Supplements for Holiday Stress Relief

Dr. Hoder — Tue, 05 Dec 2023 11:21:00 -0800

There’s a lot of joy to experience throughout the holidays, but it’s a time of year that can also be quite demanding. If you’re anxious or overwhelmed, you may be able to get much-needed stress relief with the help of natural supplements. Markson Chiropractic is excited to offer Standard Process products to our friends in Plantation, FL, including several great supplements for holiday stress relief.

Standard Process Supplements to Try for Holiday Stress Relief

Adrenal Complex

A healthy adrenal gland is vital to stress regulation, and too much stress can cause adrenal fatigue. To avoid this, consider taking Adrenal Complex, which contains licorice and Rehmannia. These herbs are commonly found in traditional stress relief tonics, making this supplement handy during the holiday season and year-round. Adrenal Complex works wonders on its own, but it can also be used alongside other stress relief supplements like Valerian Complex and Kava Forte.

Drenamin®

Drenamin® also helps support your adrenal gland, and it spurs better energy production and better immune system response with a healthy dose of vitamin C. This supplement is also a great source of niacin, riboflavin, and vitamin B6, which work together to support balanced mood and emotional health. These ingredients also help boost your metabolism, which helps your body use your holiday meal to create natural energy.

Orchex®

Orchex® is an excellent source of niacin and vitamin B6, which support the nervous system and help bring it into balance. Proper nervous system response means a better reaction to environmental stressors and a more regulated stress response. This keeps you emotionally balanced, allowing you to stay in a better mood.

Try Supplements for Holiday Stress Relief in Plantation, FL

If you’re struggling this holiday season, Markson Chiropractic can help. We offer Standard Process supplements for stress relief and mood support, and we provide services like chiropractic care and massage that can help you stay level during the holiday season. Give us a call at (954) 472-7975 or schedule a visit online to get started on your path to less holiday stress in Plantation, FL.

Watch cartoons to protect your digital life

Anonymous — Tue, 05 Dec 2023 07:57:31 -0800

Ah, cybersecurity. The word that instantly makes us think of stock images of a lonely finger pressing a holographic sign of a lock on a black and blue background. The lock symbolizes protection, the colors – determination, and the hand would be… action? Even if people wanted to find out more about cybersecurity, a lot of resources would be just like this stock image: very serious, but way too abstract.

In reality, cybersecurity practices are already present as specific parts of our daily routine. Does your laptop lock itself after being inactive for 15 minutes? Yes? Congratulations, you’re on a path to a protected digital life! Now, tune it down to 1 minute to be even safer.

Cybersecurity can seem to be weird, stupid, scary, and hard. But guess what, that’s exactly how a comedian Judy Carter advises to approach a writing process for the jokes. Meaning, cybersecurity can be fun! Today, we’ll follow the advice of Judy and turn negativity into fun. But not to make jokes about cybersecurity – rather to understand it better.

Cybersecuritoons – the fun way to grasp cybersecurity

Corporate employees have to go through cybersecurity training. You know, those videos about a secure development lifecycle that everybody watches but hardly anyone ever remembers. Freelancers are usually on their own if they want to learn how to protect themselves, but their time is way too valuable to waste on long and exhausting cybersecurity courses. Especially when they are not tailored to the resources that freelance workers have in comparison to corporations.

Moonlock, the cybersecurity division of MacPaw, made cybersecurity training that takes only 6 minutes to watch and is packed with practical information for everyone. It goes by the name Cybersecuritoons and is available for free to anyone on the Moonlock’s YouTube channel. The entire training consists of 4 episodes that take 1 minute and 30 seconds each. And to make it fun and non-boring, Moonlock animated the whole thing with the help of a Ukrainian animation studio Animagrad.

Each Cybersecuritoon covers one topic that is essential for understanding: passwords, remote work, phishing, and malware. Through bright animations and memorable characters, the creators hope to unpack complex cybersecurity tech into tools anyone can use. Here’s a brief overview of the course for the curious ones.

Passwords can be weird

Advice to change your password often has already become a staple joke. Even The New Yorker writes humorous essays about it. We’re not supposed to reuse the same password in multiple accounts, but if we’re about to make dozens of them, how we’re supposed to remember them all? Forasmuch as the biggest rule of cybersecurity is not to write passwords down. So, here we are, dreading the moment when we have to come up with a new password. And when this moment comes, we are looking at the screen, overwhelmed and lost.

The first episode of Cybersecuritoons recommends seeing passwords as keys to your property. Store them in a keychain and never ever put the same lock on all doors. Prevent breaking and entering into your accounts with passphrases instead of easy combinations. And set up the alarm system with two-factor authentication, so nobody can get inside even if they somehow got a copy of your key.

Remote work is kind of scary

Moonlock is no stranger to work from home. Like most companies, the team had to switch to remote work during the pandemic. But after the full-scale invasion of Russia into Ukraine, a lot of team members had to seek shelter in different corners of the globe, fleeing the war. A part of Moonlock is staying in Kyiv at the moment, choosing to work from their homes or from the headquarters of MacPaw.

And if the rule of separating corporate devices from personal ones doesn’t really apply to freelancers, being vigilant while connecting to public Wi-Fi is worth your attention. In a coworking space, it’s better to lock your laptop once you’re leaving your desk, even for a second. You’d be surprised how many attackers are in public spaces snooping around for our sensitive information. The second Cybersecuritoon talks about that and more in just 90 seconds.

Phishing is not that stupid

Do you know how to spot a phishing scam? The one with the Nigerian prince is too obvious, but the ones that pose as your local business or your bank are sneaky. These days, phishing spreads over text messages, emails, phone calls, and pretends to be from someone you know or a service you use regularly. Phishing plays on your emotions, using the sense of urgency, and not giving you time to think about the situation with a cool-headed approach.

Even the best of us might be caught on the hook of scammers. The Olympics were attacked in 2020 by a massive phishing attack in an attempt to get the personal information of the Olympic fans. As a freelancer, you might be communicating with many different people on business, provide them with your email and phone number, potentially exposing yourself to a risk. Brushing up on your knowledge of red flags and tools to avoid the attack is essential. Especially when the knowledge comes wrapped into a short cartoon that you might watch over a morning coffee.

Malware shouldn’t be hard

Back in the day we only knew viruses. We kind of took them for granted and braced ourselves to fight them from the very first day a computer appeared in our household. Antivirus was the first program we installed, right after drivers for a sound system, web cameras, and a graphic card.

But as the world shifted to work within online spaces, viruses stopped being the only trouble that might compromise our data. Adware, spyware, keyloggers, browser hijackers – you name it – are types of malware that might sneak on your computer through many doors, break the device, and steal your information.

Knowing malware and what it’s capable of helps us understand where it comes from and how to take preventative measures. The final Cybersecuritoon lays out the many faces of malware, breaking it down by the kinds of threats it poses. So, next time your antivirus alerts you of a worm found in your system, you will know to turn off the internet connection immediately instead of simply moving it to quarantine.

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from Freelancers Union Blog https://blog.freelancersunion.org/2023/12/05/watch-cartoons-to-protect-your-digital-life/

Key Changes to 2024 401(k) and Self-Employed Retirement Plan Limits

Anonymous — Mon, 04 Dec 2023 11:55:28 -0800

The Internal Revenue Service recently announced significant changes to the amount individuals can contribute to their 401(k) plans in 2024. If you are self-employed as a freelancer and have self-employment income, you can contribute a percentage of your self-employment income to a SEP-IRA and those limits are changing in 2024, too.

The highlights of retirement contribution changes for 2024 include:

The contribution limit for employees who participate in 401(k), 403(b), most 457 plans, and the federal government's Thrift Savings Plan is increased to $23,000, up from $22,500 in 2023. The SEP-IRA contribution limit is always the same as the annual additions limit for a 401k plan. It is $66,000 in 2023, and it will increase to $69,000 in 2024.
An important point for self-employed individuals is that under the newly implemented SECURE Act 2.0,as of January 1, 2023, SEP IRA employer profit-sharing contributions can now be designated as a Roth IRA. The benefit of a Roth IRA is that you can contribute after-tax dollars which means that contributions and the earnings on those contributions can grow tax-free and be withdrawn tax-free after the age 59½ as long as the account has been open for at least five years. Essentially, you pay taxes on money going into your Roth IRA, and then all future withdrawals are tax-free.

Note that the IRS has yet to set rules on how an employee is to elect to have the SEP contribution treated as a Roth. The provision states that the employee must elect for the contributions made by the employer to be treated as made to a Roth IRA. It also appears that an employer would not be required to offer the Roth election.

Be aware that an election to receive contributions in a Roth IRA will trigger current taxation, even though they are employer contributions. Any designated Roth contribution made by the employer on the employee’s behalf is required to be included in the employee’s taxable wages as reported on Form W-2. Just like pretax contributions, which are tax-deductible to the employer, SEP Roth IRA contributions will be tax-deductible. In addition, any non-elective designated Roth contributions made by the employer are required to be fully vested.

The IRS will still need to issue guidance on whether a SEP Roth IRA contribution impacts the amount of a Roth IRA contribution available to the employee to be made individually. Stay tuned for updates!

The limit on annual contributions to an IRA increased to $7,000 in 2024, up from $6,500 in 2023. The IRA catch up contribution limit for individuals aged 50 and over is not subject to an annual cost of living adjustment and remains $1,000.
The catch-up contribution limit for employees aged 50 and over who participate in 401(k), 403(b), most 457 plans, and the federal government’s Thrift Savings Plan is increased to $7,000, up from $6,500. Therefore, participants in 401(k), 403(b), most 457 plans, and the federal government's Thrift Savings Plan who are 50 and older can contribute up to $30,000, starting in 2024. The catch-up contribution limit for employees aged 50 and over who participate in SIMPLE plans is increased to $3,500, up from $3,000.
Taxpayers can deduct contributions to a traditional IRA if they meet certain conditions. If during the year either the taxpayer or the taxpayer’s spouse was covered by a retirement plan at work, the deduction may be reduced, or phased out, until it is eliminated, depending on filing status and income. (If neither the taxpayer nor the spouse is covered by a retirement plan at work, the phase-outs of the deduction do not apply.) Here are the phase out ranges for 2024:

Taxpayers can deduct contributions to a traditional IRA if they meet certain conditions outlined below:

For single taxpayers covered by a workplace retirement plan, the phase-out range is increased to between $77,000 and $87,000 [up from between $73,000 and $83,000].
For married couples filing jointly, if the spouse making the IRA contribution is covered by a workplace retirement plan, the phase-out range is increased to between $123,000 and $143,000 [up from between $116,000 and $136,000].
For an IRA contributor who is not covered by a workplace retirement plan and is married to someone who is covered, the phase-out range is increased to between $230,000 and $240,000 [up from between $218,000 and $228,000].
For a married individual filing a separate return who is covered by a workplace retirement plan, the phase-out range is not subject to an annual cost-of-living adjustment and remains between $0 and $10,000.
The income phase-out range for taxpayers making contributions to a Roth IRA is increased to between $146,000 and $161,000 for singles and heads of household [up from between $138,000 and $153,000]. For married couples filing jointly, the income phase-out range is increased to between $230,000 and $240,000 [up from between $218,000 and $228,000]. The phase-out range for a married individual filing a separate return who makes contributions to a Roth IRA is not subject to an annual cost-of-living adjustment and remains between $0 and $10,000.
The income limit for the Saver’s Credit (also known as the Retirement Savings Contributions Credit) for low- and moderate-income workers is:
- $76,500 for married couples filing jointly [up from $73,000]
- $57,375 for heads of household [up from $54,750]
- $38,250 for singles and married individuals filing separately [up from $36,500]
The amount individuals can contribute to their SIMPLE retirement accounts is increased to $16,000 [up from $15,500].

Now is the time to look ahead toward retirement planning so you can take advantage of both tax savings for 2023 and look ahead to maximizing savings for 2024. This will not only provide certain tax advantages, but it will also ensure that one day you have a comfortable retirement! For more information, contact our tax team. We can help you plan for these changes and your end of year taxes, too.

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from Freelancers Union Blog https://blog.freelancersunion.org/2023/12/04/key-changes-to-2024-401-k-and-self-employed-retirement-plan-limits/

Why we waste precious time with busy work (and how to fix it)

Anonymous — Thu, 30 Nov 2023 08:56:54 -0800

Hands up if you ever get caught up in the weeds of your business.

Getting Fit and Healthy While Freelancing

Influencer Nara Smith and husband Lucky Blue Smith welcome their third child

Do I have a cold or hay fever? An expert explains how to tell the difference

Hillary Clinton comforts Kelly Clarkson as she tearfully recalls being hospitalised during pregnancies

Ms Rachel is fighting for New York parents as mayor slashes funding for early childhood education

8 effective ways to discipline your child without smacking

Pregnancy-associated osteoporosis (PAO) – what is it and what are the symptoms

The Benefits of Exercising Outdoors

The Benefits of Exercising Outdoors

Safety Tips for Working Out in the Sun

Get Ready for Outdoor Exercise With Markson Chiropractic

Tips to Improve Your Balance & Flexibility

Tips to Improve Your Balance and Flexibility

Learn More Exercises for Balance & Flexibility at Markson Chiropractic

Canadian chiropractor leads the way for medical team in Canadian fencing

Dr. Nader Abdelkader shares his unique journey from being a competitive fencer to becoming a leading figure in chiropractic care for athletes, particularly in the sport of fencing.

What is fencing?

Try Running Shoe Inserts This Spring

The Benefits of Wearing Custom Inserts in Your Running Shoes

Explore Foot Levelers Shoe Inserts for Running

Try Custom Shoe Inserts for Running in Broward County, FL

How to Treat Runner's Knee & Prevent Pain

How to Treat and Prevent Runner’s Knee Pain

Get Your Rest Between Runs & Be Sure to Stretch

Use an Ice Pack

Try Regenerative Medicine for Runner’s Knee

Is Your Knee Sore After Running? Visit Markson Chiropractic

Proudly launching the Women’s Chiropractic Caucus

Objectives of the Women’s Chiropractic Caucus:

Members of the Women’s Chiropractic Caucus

The Benefits of Trying Physical Therapy

The Benefits of Trying Physical Therapy in 2024

Try Physical Therapy at Markson Chiropractic in Plantation, FL

Regenerative Therapy for Injury Recovery

Why Try Regenerative Therapy for Injury Recovery

Stem Cell Therapy for Injury Recovery in Plantation, FL

Disc experts: How this Vancouver chiropractic duo provides support to patients on and off the field

The top 6 common myths about chiropractic treatment

Chiropractors can only treat back pain

A medical doctor must refer you to a chiropractor

Once you see a chiropractor you have to keep going back

Chiropractors are not ‘real’ doctors

There is no evidence to support the effectiveness of chiropractic care

Adjustments are painful

A bonus misconception about chiropractic: Chiropractors only perform adjustments.

References

Make Time for Chiropractic Massage in 2024

The Perks of Trying Chiropractic Massage in 2024

Get a Therapeutic Shiatsu or Deep Tissue Massage in Plantation, FL

You'll Love What a Chiropractor Can Do

What Can a Chiropractor Do to Help You in 2024?

Enjoy the Benefits of Going to the Chiropractor in Plantation, FL

Make Daily Stretching Part of Your Routine

Why Make Stretching Part of Your Daily Routine

Markson Chiropractic Can Help You Create a Daily Stretching Routine & More

Get Your Freelance Tax Information Ready Now! The IRS Announces Tax Return Filing Starts Jan 29, 2024

16 Key Freelance Tax Deductions to Reduce Your 2023 Self-employed Tax Obligations

1. Startup costs - deductible up to $5,000

2. Home office - deductible varies

3. Retirement plan contributions.

4. Asset Depreciation.

5. Certain meals can also be a small business deduction in two different ways:

6. 1099 deductions for contractor-provided services.

7. Business travel is 100% deductible.

8. Gifts - Maximum deduction of $25.00/person.

9. Auto expenses - 100% or percent of vehicle usage deductible.

10. Business taxes are deductible.

11. Charitable contributions, review rules for accurate deductions.

12. Rent and utilities are 100% deductible.

13. Interest on debts related to your business.

14. Salaries and wages that you pay your employees.

15. Legal and professional fees, Business Insurance, and Health Insurance are all 100% deductible.

16. Subscriptions, Internet/phone, Education, and Marketing/Advertising - 100% deductible

Simplify your freelance taxes and take advantage of tax breaks with professional help.

The IRS Is Open for Business: Why E-Filing Is a Smart Choice

Why e-file your taxes?

1. Fast and accurate filing: no math required

2. Get your tax refund faster

3. Receive confirmation for peace of mind

4. E-file now, pay later