You can be on Entrepreneur’s cover!

Be Careful When Giving Yourself Bonuses Whoa, there, big spender: Make sure your big bonus is kosher with the IRS.

entrepreneur daily

When the profits are flowing in, it's often tempting to giveyourself a nice, big bonus at the end of the quarter. But you'dbetter keep your greed at bay if you're organized as a regularcorporation: The IRS is going after those business owners who paythemselves too much.

To decide whether compensation is reasonable, the IRS looks at anumber of factors. These include the nature and size of thebusiness, the nature and scope of the work the owner does at thecompany, the amount of time required for the services, and anyspecial qualifications the owner has. Industry surveys andthird-party studies help determine what is considered reasonablecompensation for companies in the industry.

Want to be an Entrepreneur Leadership Network contributor? Apply now to join.

Editor's Pick

Side Hustle

He Took His Side Hustle Full-Time After Being Laid Off From Meta in 2023 — Now He Earns About $200,000 a Year: 'Sweet, Sweet Irony'

When Scott Goodfriend moved from Los Angeles to New York City, he became "obsessed" with the city's culinary offerings — and saw a business opportunity.

Business News

Some Costco Stores Are Now Selling a Frozen Item That Looks Just Like a Trader Joe's Fan Favorite

The Frozen Kimbap is a Trader Joe's cult favorite, and now a version can be found at Costco, too.

Science & Technology

AI Will Radically Transform the Workplace — Here's How HR Teams Can Prepare for It

HR intrapreneurs are emerging as key drivers of AI reskilling, thoughtful organizational restructuring and ethical integration, shaping an inclusive future where technology enhances both efficiency and employee development.

Marketing

Why This One Unique Marketing Approach is the Key to Business Growth

Adopting this approach now will help you succeed and see consistent, measurable growth over the long term.

Health & Wellness

How This Millionaire Investor Overcame Opioid Addiction to Become the World's Fastest Marathoner Over 50

Ken Rideout shares five invaluable lessons for achieving peak performance physically and mentally.