10 Dates to Include in Your Business Calendar in 2024
Although we’re almost half way through 2024, the year will only get busier, so now is a great time to take a quick pause to look ahead and create some structure that prepares us for success.
So what are some dates every business owner should plan for in 2024? Read on for our top 10 deadlines and events to remember.
1. BUSINESS ENTITY RENEWAL
Almost every type of business, including non-profit organizations, is subject to annual renewal. Whether you have an LLC, corporation, or anything else, mark your renewal deadline on your calendar so it doesn’t lapse. A helpful strategy is to also set a recurring annual calendar reminder.
Hand-in-hand with this is any necessary renewals for your DBA, ABN or other business alias. Review this annually just in case you need to update your mailing or physical address or other contact information.
2. WEBSITE DOMAIN AND HOSTING RENEWAL
Avoid any lapses in your website that could lead to interruptions or a loss of business (especially if you’re in e-commerce!). Mark down any dates for domain and hosting renewals–and keep in mind that these might be different, for example if you purchased the domain before you created your website.
And even if you have automatic payments enabled, make sure all of your credit card information is up to date to ensure you don’t miss a payment and lose website functionality.
3. TRADEMARK RENEWALS
If you have a trademark for your logo or brand name you should note your renewal date for the coming year.
If you plan to start a business in 2024 and aren’t sure how to apply for a trademark, here’s a guide from Forbes to help you determine if you need a trademark and learn how to submit a trademark application to the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO).
4. 2024 TAX DEADLINES
Tax day is fast approaching in the U.S., but don’t forget quarterly tax deadlines if this applies to you. For 2024, these are:
- Monday, April 15
- Monday, June 17
- Monday, September 16
- and Wednesday, January 15, 2025
Keep in mind that additional deadlines for federal, state, local and municipal taxes could vary depending on where you file, which is especially important if you file in multiple states.
5. LICENSES AND CERTIFICATIONS
Do you hold any permits, certificates or licenses? Make a list for both you and your business and note the deadlines for renewal.
6. BUSINESS INSURANCE RENEWAL
Business insurance is typically renewed on an annual basis, so check when you renewed in 2023 and mark this date for 2024.
7. WORK CULTURE EVENTS
Do you celebrate your employees’ birthdays? Or the day you launched your business? Maybe a fun day like International Coffee Day or Donut Day? Mark these down so your Party Planning Committee can plan ahead.
8. HOLIDAYS AND TIME OFF
Make note of any cultural, religious, and personal days of celebration or rest that may not be pre-loaded as a federal holiday in your calendar. And definitely don’t forget to plan your own time off–that’s essential for a business owner!
9. SEASONAL SWINGS IN YOUR BUSINESS
Take some time to identify any seasonal swings in your business where you may have a quieter season. These can be great times to incorporate reviews, strategy or planning activities.
A few things to regularly review:
- HR documents pertaining to your hiring process, employee feedback or exit interviews
- Business plans
- Website, data and email policies
- Business governance forms and documents
- Standard operating procedures and manuals
- Corporate policy documents
10. CONFERENCES AND EDUCATION
Do you normally participate in any conferences or ongoing education and professional development opportunities? Block out these dates for events you want to attend in 2024. This is also a good way not to miss early bird registrations! This can also help you to plan for ample time to book any necessary travel or accommodations.
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Source: mopria.org
Image: vector4stock/freepik
