Taxes are not the most glamorous part of owning a business, but they’re important. You should understand the basics about how your business is taxed even if you hire a professional accountant. Get started with these essential tips for businesses regarding tax deductions.
Most businesses fall into one of three categories:
Businesses are able to claim tax deductions for a wide variety of expenses, particularly expenses incurred to produce additional income. Potential business tax deductions include:
Unlike deductions, which reduce the amount of business income that is taxable, credits lower your tax. Many tax credits are tied to specific industries or types of businesses.
One of the most significant tax credits for small business owners is the Small Business Health Care Tax Credit, available for employers that:
Keep in mind that tax credits, as with other tax policies, might change.
As a business owner, your tax obligation is to pay taxes as you earn income. For that reason, if taxes aren’t being withheld from salaries or other payments, you need to pay estimated tax payments each quarter of the calendar year.
Figuring out what you owe each quarter requires looking at your expected adjusted gross income, taxable income, taxes, deductions and credits for the year. Each business and every situation is unique, so it’s important to consult a tax advisor for help in calculating the amount.
In addition to federal taxes, businesses need to pay state and local taxes, including income and employment taxes. Look up your state’s business-tax requirements.
It’s beneficial to hire an accountant, even if you feel your business is not very complicated. Paying taxes, identifying deductions and keeping up to date with current business tax law are serious responsibilities, and a tax professional can be a tremendous help.
Learn more about cash management for your business amd for more tax information, visit our tax resource center.