MOST FARRIERS have two things in common. They are usually self-employed, and they usually work at full capacity. That is they go to work early and retire very late into the night, after the last horse has been shod.

Working harder to make more money is not really an option. But there is a major difference between working harder and working smarter.

Here are tips for working smarter, including:

• Taking advantage of federal and state government resources.
• Joining associations.
• Keeping aware of important business filings.
• Using money-saving tax benefits and deductions.
• Planning for your future, and your family’s future, with a pension.
• Knowing about insurance.

Government Resources

Professional farriers should look at themselves as small businesses. The federal government offers a wide variety of programs, services and information for small businesses. Many of these resources are free:

1.  The U.S. Small BusinessAdministration. The SBA is an independent federal agency that was created to, among other things, “aid, counsel, assist and protect the interests of small business concerns.” It offers loan-guarantee programs and other services. It can be reached at (800) U-ASK-SBA. The SBA is also online at http://www.sba.gov.

2.  The U.S. Business Advisor. This service offers general information about assistance offered by the federal government and news of interest to the business community. Contact it at http:// www.business.gov

3.  U.S. Chamber of Commerce. Small business owners can contact the U.S. Chamber of Commerce at (202) 659-6000. Its Web site is: http:// www.uschamber.com

4.  Federal Government. If you have questions…