I've mentioned Evernote a lot lately, so I thought I would share why and how I use it - and also give you some great resources to make the most of this awesome free software & app.

I really started using it regularly when I added several new devices to my home office set-up. Namely a Macbook Pro, Apple iPad and Droid mobile device. And of course I still use my two PC computers in the office as well.

The thing I love most about Evernote is that it's cross compatible, and syncs automatically between all my computers and mobile devices!

There are a million uses for Evernote (that might be an overstatement, but I highly doubt it -lol) and everyone uses it differently. I like to keep it simple and uncluttered myself, but I use it all day every day. Even to create my Content and Info Products...

Here are just some of the things I keep in Evernote:

• My Task List
• Schedule
• Bookmarks
• Business Brainstorming Notes
• Running list of Content Ideas
• Drafts of blog posts, guest posts, etc
• Info Products I'm working on
• Ebooks I'm reading

Why? Because Evernote is the easiest way to have access to all of those things, no matter which computer or device you're using!

That means I can sit down at my desk and work on a report I'm writing. Then I leave to go to a doctor's appointment, and I can open Evernote on my Droid Razr and work on that report some more while I'm in the waiting room. Then when I get home I can grab my laptop and head out to the back deck - and continue working on the report.

No transferring of files, no remembering to save documents, no multiple copies with varying edits. You gotta love it!

Like I said, your "notes" automatically save and sync. I always click the "sync" button when I get up from one computer/device just to be on the safe side - so I can easily pick right back up on any other computer/device.

There is an upgrade option called Evernote Premium which is only $5/month. I upgraded within the first year, because it allowed me to add different document formats (drag and drop PDF files or Word documents into Evernote). It also allows you to share notes - with your Virtual Assistant, for example - and to "work offline."

I don't even use half the awesome features...

Evernote does SO much, and I barely even tap into the full potential of the program.

Like I said, I like to keep mine simple and uncluttered, and basically use it to keep up with ongoing tasks and work projects across multiple devices.

This page has a getting started guide, overview and a video - all of which should prove helpful if you're new to Evernote or not taking advantage of all the cool features.

For some great ideas, tutorials and resources you should check out Lynette Chandler's blog posts & videos on Evernote.

Since everyone uses it differently, I would love to hear how YOU use Evernote.

What are your favorite features, and why?

In my next post, I'll show you how I set up my task list with Evernote. In detail.

Best,

Below is a simple Q & A about merchant accounts. If you have an online business, it's possible you require a merchant account to get it started. Information taken largely from Better Merchant Accounts.

Q: Do you need a merchant account for a small online business?

A: Generally, yes. A merchant account allows businesses to accept credit card, debit card, and gift card payments.

In an age of plastic, this is critical.

Having a merchant account with a payment processing company has a few benefits. First, merchants do not need special training or software to set up the account, as it will be provided by the processor. Second, the software will provide authentication procedures. Third, the money will be available in the merchant account once processing is complete.

Q: Is PayPal not enough?

A: PayPal is a valuable tool for merchants and allows for easy credit card processing with the correct account arrangements. However, there are drawbacks.

PayPal may also freeze the merchant's account pursuant to its Terms of Service. PayPal specifically bars individuals in certain industries from using its services, so violating the Terms of Service is possible if the merchant sells a wide array of goods. Excessive chargebacks and other suspicious activity can also trigger an account review. If the merchant's accounts are frozen and he or she cannot either accept credit card payments or withdraw money, that merchant will lose money.

Other payment processors may be less stringent. However, most credit card processors and merchant account providers require authentication and will have similar measures in place. In contrast, a merchant account alleviates those concerns. Once the payment has been processed, it is not placed into a processor's account, but rather the business owner's account. It is ready for use immediately.

Q: Is a merchant account easy to manage?

A: Yes. Merchant account providers provide software and authorization technologies to help protect the business owner. Once a transaction has been completed, the money is deposited into the merchant's account. The Merchant Services Provider will charge fees for these services, but management is easy.

Q: What are some things to watch out for when operating an online business?

A: Credit card charge backs can deprive smaller businesses of desperately-needed funds. Similarly, credit card fraud can deprive business owners of thousands of dollars worth of products every year.

Businesses that don't carefully monitor their inventory can receive fraudulent returns, as customers attempt to return older or broken equipment and claim that it was new. Computer data security is also important, as hackers and identity thieves often attack poorly secured sites.

Q: Do I need to report credit card payments to the IRS as a small business?

A: Yes. Credit card payments must be reported to the IRS on form 1099-K.

Accepting credit card payments is crucial. In 2011, customers used credit cards for 66 percent of point-of-sale transactions. Over 78 percent of consumers own a credit card. Online businesses must be prepared to accept customers' credit cards, lest the customer find someone who will.