New Regulatory Shifts Every Small Business Owner Should Watch This Fall
As we step into September 2025, a fresh wave of regulatory updates is rolling in—some designed to expand opportunities, others to tighten oversight. For small businesses, these shifts can feel overwhelming, but staying informed is the first step to staying ahead. Below, we break down the most important changes and what they mean for your business.
1. SBA Simplifies Investment Company Licensing
The Small Business Administration (SBA) is clearing out outdated regulations in the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR). This move streamlines licensing for Small Business Investment Companies (SBICs)—especially those focused on critical minerals and advanced technologies.
Why it matters: Easier licensing may attract more capital into small business–focused funds, opening doors for entrepreneurs seeking growth financing.
2. Expanded Small Business Size Standards
The SBA is also proposing increases in monetary-based size definitions for “small businesses.”
Why it matters: More companies may qualify for federal programs, contracts, and loans reserved for small enterprises. If your business was previously “too big” to count, these changes could pull you back into eligibility.
3. 1099 Reporting Gets an Upgrade
Under the One Big Beautiful Bill (OBBBA) tax package:
- 1099-K forms must now be filed if a seller has 200+ transactions and $20,000+ gross receipts.
- 1099-NEC and 1099-MISC thresholds will rise from $600 to $2,000 starting in 2026.
Why it matters: If you sell online or use third-party platforms (like PayPal, Venmo, or Etsy), expect more frequent reporting—but also less paperwork for smaller-dollar transactions.
4. Stablecoin Oversight Tightens
The GENIUS Act now requires U.S.-issued stablecoins to be fully backed by dollars or low-risk assets, with mandatory audits and dual federal/state supervision.
Why it matters: If your business accepts crypto payments, compliance and reporting requirements will increase. On the flip side, greater oversight could make digital payments more trustworthy for customers.
5. Federal Stance on Digital Currencies
In January, an executive order banned the issuance of a central bank digital currency (CBDC) in the U.S. At the same time, it directed federal agencies to draft a comprehensive digital asset framework.
Why it matters: While CBDCs are off the table, expect more structured rules on crypto and digital assets—something every tech-forward small business should monitor.
6. Subscription & Fee Transparency Rules
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has stepped up consumer protections:
- The “junk-fee” rule (total pricing must be upfront) took effect in May 2025.
- The “click-to-cancel” rule (making cancellations as easy as signups) will be enforced starting July 14, 2025.
Why it matters: Businesses offering memberships, recurring services, or digital subscriptions must update checkout and cancellation processes. Non-compliance risks fines and reputational damage.
What Small Businesses Should Do Next
- Check Eligibility: Review whether new SBA size standards open up fresh federal opportunities.
- Update Reporting Systems: Adjust your bookkeeping for the new 1099 rules.
- Audit Payment Processes: If you take crypto or stablecoins, make sure you understand the GENIUS Act requirements.
- Review Consumer Policies: Update subscription and fee disclosures to match FTC standards.
Final Word
Regulation isn’t just about compliance—it’s about strategic positioning. The businesses that thrive in this shifting landscape are those that see regulation not as a hurdle, but as a framework to build trust, credibility, and long-term growth.
At Faithfully Legal™, we help entrepreneurs translate these complex rules into practical steps so you can stay focused on building your purpose-driven business.
Disclaimer: This post is for educational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice or create an attorney-client relationship.
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