When it comes to tax season, everyone is looking to maximize deductions. Most people know they can claim donations to charities or business expenses like office supplies. But did you know some have attempted to deduct everything from pet expenses to extravagant costumes? Just because someone tried doesn’t mean they succeeded! Here’s a look at some unusual tax deductions—both the ones that passed and the ones that didn’t. Before you dive in, here’s a checklist for determining

THE BIGGER PICTURE Your First Hire Is More Than a Staffing Decision There's a moment in every growing business when doing everything yourself stops working. You're turning down clients. Spending Sunday nights on admin. Saying no to opportunities you actually want. That moment as uncomfortable as it feels is the signal that you're ready to hire. But here's what most business owners don't fully appreciate until after the fact: your first hire doesn't just solve a capacity prob