It's also the ideal time to ask yourself the following questions:

1. Does my current form of ownership (e.g., partnership, corporation, proprietorship) offer maximum tax advantages, minimum exposure to liability and simplified daily operations?
   
   
2. Does my bookkeeping system provide the information I need to run my business effectively and to take advantage of opportunities?
   
   
3. Am I dealing with supply and service providers out of habit rather than shopping for the best quality at a competitive price?
   
   
4. What are my borrowing needs for the coming year?
   
   
5. What equipment do I need to replace (or upgrade) next year?
   
   
6. Do I have the best coverage and the most competitive premiums for my crop insurance and equipment and vehicle insurance? When will those insurance contracts be up for review and renewal?
   
   
7. Will my liability coverage adequately cover my business and all owners when I need it to?
   
   
8. What do I want to accomplish in during the next 12 months?
   
   
9. Do I have a specific plan for how I will accomplish it? Who will work with me to accomplish my plan? Where will I work on it? And when will I complete my plan?

Of course, you may want to customize this list to match the long-term success of your operation. If you are uncertain about the answers, please give Ken Lassen a call at 800.822.3276 or E-mail Ken at kenyon.lassen@fcssw.com. He's ready to help!

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