Use the Holiday Slowdown to Get Ahead; We’ll Help You Plan a Strong 2026.
For business owners, December is hectic, but it also gives you a brief moment to look at the bigger picture. Before 2026 ramps up, this is the perfect time to check in on the legal protections that keep your business stable, compliant, and growing.
You don’t need to fix everything today, but this is the ideal time to review what needs attention and get professional guidance so you start the new year ahead, not catching up.
Corporate Records: Do They Still Match the Reality of Your Business?
Before the year ends, ask:
- Did ownership shift this year?
- Did you add partners, change managers, or restructure operations?
- Are your records consistent with how you actually run the business?
- Did you create any new IP like logos, trademarks, or materials to be copyrighted?
Best Time to Handle in 2026
- January–March is ideal for updating:
- Corporate minutes
- Bylaws
- Operating agreements
- Annual reports
Getting these accurate protects your personal liability and helps avoid issues during tax and reporting season.
Employee vs. Contractor Classification: Any Red Flags?
One of the biggest risks for Florida businesses is mis-classifying workers.
Holiday Gut Check
- Did you hire contractors who function like employees?
- Does anyone’s role no longer match the classification on paper?
Handle in Early 2026
- Review roles before issuing 1099s and W-2s
- Update agreements or job descriptions so duties match the legal category
- Adjust onboarding paperwork moving forward
Business Agreements: Still Current or Outdated?
As your business evolves, your contracts need to evolve, too.
Questions to Ask Yourself
- Does your operating agreement reflect each partner’s actual responsibilities?
- Are your non-competes and vendor agreements still relevant especially with the changes in Florida Non-Compete law?
- Has your growth outpaced your legal documents?
Best Time to Update
- Q1 or Q2 2026 — when budgets, goals, and operations reset.
Real Estate, Leases & Property Issues
If your business owns or leases property, or you’re a landlord, the holiday season is a good time for a light review.
Quick Holiday Review
- Does your insurance match the current value of your property?
- Are you properly covered for Florida’s hurricane risks?
- Any HOA/condo issues that could worsen if ignored?
Handle in 2026
- Lease updates: Before tenant renewals
- Insurance changes: Before hurricane season
- Tax structure: Is your building in an LLC if needed
Insurance & Pending Claims
Handle Before 2026 If Possible
- Open liability or personal injury claims
- Any unresolved insurance disputes
Handle in Early 2026
- Review auto coverage and liability limits
- Ensure insurance matches your actual business exposure
- Update coverage if your operations expanded this year
Why This Planning Method Works
You don’t need more December work.
What you do need is clarity, a clean, simplified roadmap for what to address next year.
By using the holiday slowdown to identify your priorities, you enter 2026 organized, prepared, and protected.
Your Next Step
Take 10 minutes to mark the areas that apply to your business.
Then book your Year-End Legal Checkup, we’ll help you plan what to handle and when.
[Schedule Your Year-End Legal Checkup]
Or call (407) 512-4394 to talk with our team.
About Orlando Law Group
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Last Updated on December 8, 2025 by The Orlando Law Group
