Tax planning business continues to grow in Lake County
An interview with Robert Swartz, owner of Business Ways Inc. in Libertyville.
Q: Describe your business. What do you do?
A: I am an expert on US and international tax planning. I also do consulting and reporting for businesses and individuals including IRS defense strategies and implementation.
Q: What made you start your business?
A: A passion for helping corporations and individuals achieve their goals and save them money. About 80 percent of Americans pay more than they should and we’re talking big overpayments, like $10,000 for businesses and $2,000 to $5,000 for individuals.
Q: What has been the most difficult obstacle in running or starting a small business?
A: Trying to do everything myself. I have finally discovered the art of delegation.
Q: What do you enjoy most about operating your business?
A: I enjoy the freedom of scheduling my own time and helping clients understand taxes. As Albert Einstein said, “The hardest thing to understand in the world is the income tax.”
Q: Is this what you pictured yourself doing when you were young? When you were young, what did you want to be when you grew up?
A: I was always interested in this field. Before forming my own CPA firm, I served as international tax manager at Baxter International, the pharmaceutical giant with a global presence. Ultimately, my goal was to have my own business.
Q: What keeps you up at night?
A: Nothing, I sleep very soundly.
Q: If you could give one tip to a rookie business owner, what would it be?
A: If possible, try to conserve cash by working from a home office.
— Kim Mikus
Ÿ Every Monday we feature a small, suburban business. We want to hear about yours. Email Kmikus@dailyherald.com.
Business: Business Ways Inc.
Address: 107 E. Winchester Road, Libertyville, IL 60048
Owner: Robert Swartz
Year business started: 2004
Web address: www.businesswaysinternationaltax.com