Taking proactive action to head off stress
 

Learned a few years ago just how dangerous stress can be.

So, had a prospective client come in wanting to open some corps. Ok, I need SSN's, address, etc to get EIN number. Guy's son calls his sister says 'I need your SSN'. She asks why (I can hear the conversation). He says 'I got you an Amex card'.

???

Told them I can't help them. I'm not going to be party to opening a corp with a SSN for someone who isn't aware of what's going on even if it is family.

'no, no...it's all ok, I can get her in here to talk with you'

Sorry, can't help you guys with this.

I first got suspicious when they wanted C corps even after I explained very carefully that S corp made a lot more sense tax wise. Long story short some folks believe they can stick vendors with a bill easier if they do C corp. they are closing existing businesses and re-opening with these. pretty sure I know what this is about.

Screw that. I claim to be a proud American who believes in paying his share and promoting local small business. When a person walks into my office wanting to play games it's my personal opportunity to put my money where my mouth is.

So, not bragging, but I did it. Gave up $400 in immediate revenue and about $4-$6k in annual revenue going forward (2 corps, 4 1040's, sales tax, payroll).

it's tough out here guys. I could use that money. but every time we sell ourselves out we give up our ability to take a righteous stand against this crap.

Globalization? This is the way bsns works in the ROW. This scenario is played out over and over again throughout this country. if you are an atty or cpa or consultant for small bsns you know what i'm talking about here. These people aren't about 'community'.

When it's your turn to step up, will you do it? I have failed at times and succeeded at times. Today was a 'succeed' day. Here's to the rest of you having a 'succeed day' in your near future.

You did the right thing. You keep your blood pressure down by making the right decisions. You did well. :)

Good for you!
When it's my turn to step up? Weellll ... maybe. I've never had any printing done in China or anywhere overseas, though I know people who do. The cost even with shipping is about 50% of what you pay in the US. On the other hand, I just contracted for a print job in Canada. Their work is superior to any of the US bidders, the price is about the same, and with the current exchange rate the final cost is almost 20% less.
Am I a bad American?

The thing that sucks is they will find someone else with little ethics that will do it.
But at least your conscience is clear, that's what matters to you professionally and more important personally.

No, you are a good North American. SmileWavy
It's in our mutual best interests that both our countries are healthy.

I do my part; no Heineken in my house. Local beer only.

you did the right thing...

Crap like that is why I decided not to hang a shingle and offer my beancounting skills to John Q Public.

Bravo for having / showing some integrity! I'll gladly buy you a beverage of your choice if you're ever around this way.

I fail more than I succeed with such things in other parts of life. walmart, amazon....did just order tires from my local shop which will cost more but who are the definition of great service.

But with clients....I value sleeping at night and the older I get the more I feel a strong sense of community and enjoy decent honest people.

i'm surely not the only guy who turns away sketchy people but we never read about it and I thought perhaps it might help others who face these situations know that they are not alone in their struggles.

jwa I know a guy who went down the wrong path. stole money to cover what was most likely gambling debts incurred by hanging with the wrong crowd. I remember just before it hit the news (it was big in our area when it happened) I saw him and he was telling me how he had picked up one sketchy client (I won't bother with details on nationality but it absolutely is a trend with certain groups) and once that guy figured out he was willing to play the game with him referred a bunch more. The guy I know said he forever regretted taking that first client because the floodgate it opened was horrendous and earned him a reputation amongst that particular community as 'the guy'.

Better call Saul...