Business Tax FAQs

BUSINESS TAX QUESTIONS & ANSWERS

As a business owner, you are responsible for staying up-to-date on the latest business tax laws and changes. That can be daunting, but it's important to know what deductions are available to you and which ones will save you the most money. It is also important to know which tax returns you are responsible to file for your business and how to calculate your business taxable income. All businesses must file an income tax return every year. If you fail to file and pay your business taxes, there will be severe tax consequences.

You should understand your federal, state, and local tax requirements. This will help you minimize your business taxes. A business tax return reports your company's income, tax deductions, and tax payments. All businesses must file tax returns. As the owner, you are responsible for calculating and paying your business taxes. You should be familiar with some of the main business tax topics, from estimating your business taxes, to knowing how to file a tax return. Knowing which returns you are responsible for can be confusing. Calculating your business income tax return is complicated. That is why we prepared this list of the most common business tax questions and answers to help you with the tax process. If you're looking for answers to specific tax questions or need help preparing your taxes this year, don't hesitate to contact us. We're here to help you get a clear tax perspective!

  1. Do I need a Federal Tax Identification Number or (EIN) for my business?
  2. Do I need a sales tax number for my business?
  3. Why is it important for a business to be tax compliant?
  4. What are the main types of business taxes?
  5. What federal tax forms do I need to file for my business?
  6. Cash vs. Accrual: Which accounting method is better for my business?
  7. What are the deadlines for filing my business taxes?
  8. What is a US company?
  9. What is the US corporate tax rate?
  10. How is the corporate taxable income calculated?
  11. What is a foreign company?
  12. Does a foreign corporation have to file a US tax return?
  13. What are the tax differences between US corporations and foreign corporations?
  14. What is branch profits tax and how is it calculated?
  15. What is the purpose of the branch profits tax?
  16. What is the difference between a C Corporation and an S Corporation?
  17. What are the penalties for not paying my business taxes?
  18. How do I file an extension of time to file my business tax returns?
  19. What is the difference between a corporate tax return and an individual tax return?
  20. What business expenses are tax deductible?
  21. Are business gifts to clients tax deductible?
  22. Can business expenses be deducted without receipts?
  23. Do I need to pay estimated taxes for my business?
  24. How can I reduce my business taxes?
  25. How can I amend my corporate tax return?
  26. Do I need to file a return for my business even if I do not have income?
  27. Do I need to file a final return when my business closes?
  28. Can I pay and deduct my personal expenses from my business?
  29. When do I have to issue Form 1099-MISC to contractors and freelancers?
  30. What is the difference between a contractor and an employee?
  31. What is a federal tax lien?
  32. What is a federal tax levy?
  33. What is a federal tax audit?
  34. How can I avoid being audited by the IRS?
  35. What should I do if I am audited by the IRS?
  36. Why does a corporate tax department outsource its tax compliance functions?
  37. Who should I contact if I have questions about my business taxes?

Do I need a Federal Tax Identification Number or (EIN) for my business?

A Federal Identification Number (EIN) or an Employer Identification Number (EIN) is used to identify a business entity. The EIN is a nine-digit number assigned by the IRS. You will need your business EIN to open a bank account, file your tax returns and do business in general. Yes, you need an EIN otherwise your business will not be able to operate.

You can apply for your EIN online by going to irs.gov. This is a free service offered by the IRS and you can get the number immediately if you have a social security number. For foreign individuals, the process is not as easy. For more information on this topic, see IRS Publication 1635, Understanding Your EIN.

Do I need a sales tax number for my business?

A sales tax number is needed if you are going to sell products or services that are subject to sales tax. In order to obtain a sales tax number, you will need to contact your state's Department of Revenue. The requirements for obtaining a sales tax number vary from state to state, so it is best to check with your state's Department of Revenue to find out what is required.

Once you have obtained your sales tax number, you will need to register your business with the Department of Revenue and file your sales taxes on a regular basis. For more information on this topic, see the Sales Tax Information on your State Department of Revenue website.

Why is it important for a business to be tax compliant?

If your business is not tax compliant, you could face significant penalties from the government. These can include fines, interest charges, and even jail time. In addition, being non-compliant can damage your reputation and make it difficult to get loans or other types of financing. Every business is required to file tax returns and make tax payments on income at the state and federal levels.

While each business has its tax requirements, ignorance of the tax laws and regulations is not an excuse for non-compliance. US business tax laws as well as international tax laws are complicated, and they constantly change. As a small business owner, you should consider working with a tax professional to ensure compliance with federal, state, and international tax laws and regulations. Filing taxes every year is part of your responsibility as a business owner. You should work with a tax advisor who is using the latest tax software program to prepare your business tax returns. A tax professional will make sure that you are made aware of any tax reforms or new tax bills.

What are the main types of business taxes?

There are many business taxes that you need to be familiar with to be tax compliant. The type of entity you choose for your business will determine the forms you file with the IRS, as well as which taxes you will pay and how to pay them. Here are the ten most common small business taxes:

  • Income Tax: Businesses must pay income taxes on their profits. The IRS will tax business income at the corporate tax rate if your business is a corporation, or at the individual tax rate if your business is a sole proprietorship, a partnership, or an S corporation.
  • Payroll Tax: Businesses with employees have certain employment tax responsibilities. They must pay payroll taxes and file some quarterly and annual forms. Payroll taxes include the following: Social security and Medicare taxes / Federal income tax withholding / Federal unemployment (FUTA) tax.
  • Self-Employment Tax: Self-employment tax is a social security and Medicare tax primarily for individuals who work for themselves. Small business owners with no employees must pay self-employment tax, which is Social Security and Medicare tax for sole proprietors and partners.
  • Excise Tax: Businesses that manufacture or sell certain products, such as alcohol, tobacco, and gasoline, operate certain kinds of businesses, use various kinds of equipment, facilities, or products, and receive payment for certain services have to pay excise taxes. The federal excise taxes are reported on Form 720, and consist of several broad categories of taxes: Environmental taxes / Communications and air transportation taxes / Fuel taxes / Tax on heavy trucks, trailers, and tractors / Manufacturers tax on the sale or use of a variety of different products.
  • Property Tax: Businesses that own property, such as office space or warehouse, must pay property taxes to the local government where the property is located.
  • Business License Tax: Most businesses are required to obtain a business license from their city or county and may have to pay a business license tax.
  • Sales and Use Tax: Businesses that sell products or services in states with a sales tax must collect and remit the tax to the state. Businesses that use taxable products or services in these states must pay use tax.
  • Estimated Tax Payments: Businesses that expect to owe more than $1,000 in taxes for the year must make estimated tax payments to the IRS throughout the year.
  • Branch profits tax: The branch profits tax is a tax on the earnings of a foreign corporation's US operations.
  • Other taxes: Many other taxes may apply to your business depending on the type of business and where the business is located. We can help make sure you are up to date on all your tax filings.

What federal tax forms do I need to file for my business?

The federal form you will need to file taxes for your business depends on the structure of your business. Here’s how you’ll file your business return, based on your business type:

  • Sole Proprietor: Schedule C (Form 1040)
  • C-Corporation: Form 1120
  • Foreign Corporation: Form 1120 F
  • S-Corporation: Form 1120S
  • Partnership: Form 1065
  • LLC Filing as a Sole Proprietor: Schedule C (Form 1040)
  • LLC Filing as a Partnership: Form 1065
  • LLC Filing as an S-Corp: Form 1120S
  • LLC Filing as a C-Corp: Form 1120

Cash vs. Accrual: Which accounting method is better for my business?

The answer to this question depends on your particular business needs. If you are looking for simplicity, then the cash basis accounting method may be the better option for you. However, if you are looking for accuracy in portraying your company's financial health, then accrual accounting is the better choice. For tax purposes, you choose an accounting method when you file your first tax return. If you later want to change your accounting method, you must generally get IRS approval. No single accounting method is required of all taxpayers. You must use an accounting method that reflects your income and expenses, and you must maintain records that will enable you to file a correct return. It is important to know that when it is tax time, you must use the same accounting method from year to year. Most small businesses use the cash method of accounting.

Under the cash method, you generally report income in the tax year you receive it and deduct expenses in the tax year in which you pay the expenses. Under the accrual method, you generally report income in the tax year you earn it, regardless of when payment is received. You deduct expenses in the tax year you incur them, regardless of when payment is made.

What are the deadlines for filing my business taxes?

The deadline for filing your federal business taxes depends on the IRS form that you have to file. The following is a simple summary of this deadline for your guidance. However, you should consult with your Tax Advisor so you don't miss any tax form deadlines during tax season.

Due March 15th:

  • Forms 1120, 1120A and 1120S

Due April 15th 

  • Form 1065
  • Form 1040 Schedule C

Due June 15th

  • Form 1120 F - A foreign corporation that does not maintain an office or place of business in the United States must generally file Form 1120-F by the 15th day of the 6th month after the end of its tax year.
  • State & Local Taxes: For state and local taxes, the deadlines vary depending on the jurisdiction. You will need to check with your state and local tax agencies.

What is a US company?

A US company is a company that is incorporated in the United States. US companies are subject to US tax on their worldwide income. They are not subject to the branch profits tax. US companies pay taxes on their US operations at the corporate tax rate.

What is the US corporate tax rate?

The corporate tax rate is the tax rate that US corporations pay on their worldwide income. The current corporate tax rate is 21%. This rate may change in the future. Small business owners can elect to treat their corporation as a small business. As a result, the tax rate applicable to small businesses is the same tax rate applicable to individuals.

How is the corporate taxable income calculated?

Taxable corporate profits are equal to a corporation’s sales less allowable business expenses. These business expenses can include the cost of goods sold, employee compensation, interest, taxes, depreciation, advertising, home office expenses, health coverage and any other reasonable business expenses. US-based corporations owned by foreign multinational companies generally face the same US corporate tax rules on their profits from US business activities. In order to minimize business taxes, business owners should be familiar with all deductible business expenses and business tax law changes. To minimize your corporate tax liability it is important to take advantage of every tax deduction available to your business. It is important not to run personal expenses though the corporation and solely focus on actual expenses accrued by the business.

What is a foreign company?

A foreign company is a company that is incorporated in a country other than the United States. Foreign companies are subject to US tax on their US-source income. They may also be subject to the branch profits tax on their US operations.

Does a foreign corporation have to file a US tax return?

A foreign corporation that does not maintain an office or place of business in the United States must generally file Form 1120-F by the 15th day of the 6th month after the end of its tax year if the foreign corporation is engaged in a trade or business in the United States, even if the foreign corporation has no U.S.-source income or all of its income is exempt from tax under the terms of a tax treaty.

What are the tax differences between US corporations and foreign corporations?

The primary difference between the US taxation of domestic corporations and foreign corporations is that domestic corporations are subject to US tax on their worldwide income, while foreign corporations are only subject to US tax on their US-source income. This means that foreign corporations may be able to reduce their overall tax liability by structuring their affairs so that they have more US-source income than foreign-source income.

Another difference is that foreign corporations are subject to a branch profits tax on their US operations, while domestic corporations are not. The branch profits tax is a tax on the earnings of a foreign corporation's US operations. Finally, it is important to point out that US corporations file form 1120, US Corporation Income Tax Return while foreign corporations file form Form 1120-F, U.S. Income Tax Return of a Foreign Corporation.

What is branch profits tax and how is it calculated?

The branch profits tax is a tax on the earnings of a foreign corporation's US operations. The tax is calculated as a percentage of the corporation's net income from its US operations. The exact rate depends on the country in which the corporation is based. For most countries, the rate is 15%. However, there are a few exceptions, such as Canada, which has a rate of 5%. The branch profits tax is generally imposed on earnings that are repatriated to the foreign corporation's home country. However, the tax may also be imposed on earnings that are reinvested in the US.

What is the purpose of the branch profits tax?

The purpose of the branch profits tax is to level the playing field between US-based corporations and foreign-based corporations. The tax ensures that foreign-based corporations pay taxes on their US operations at a rate that is similar to the rate paid by US-based corporations.

What is the difference between a C Corporation and an S Corporation?

The main difference between a C Corporation and an S Corporation is that a C Corporation is subject to double taxation, while an S Corporation is not. This means that a C Corporation pays taxes on its profits at the corporate tax rate, and then shareholders pay taxes on their dividends at the individual tax rate. An S Corporation pays taxes on its profits only at the individual tax rate.

Another difference is that a C Corporation can have an unlimited number of shareholders, while an S Corporation is limited to 100 shareholders. Finally, it should be noted that C Corporations file Form 1120, US Corporation Income Tax Return, while S Corporations file Form 1120S, US Income Tax Return for an S Corporation. Most small business owners benefit by electing to treat their small business for tax purposes as an S Corporation.

What are the penalties for not paying my business taxes?

If you do not pay your business taxes by the due date, you will be subject to late payment penalties. The late payment penalty is 0.5% of the unpaid tax for each month or part of a month that the payment is late. The maximum late payment penalty is 25%. In addition to the late payment penalty, you will also be responsible for paying interest on any unpaid tax. It is important to pay your taxes because these penalties and interests can add up quickly. We have seen companies close after accumulating a large amount of unpaid taxes, interest, and penalties. Small business owners should not play with small business taxes if they want to stay in business for a long time. The tax code is complicated, but by working with tax professionals you can take advantages of tax credits.

How do I file an extension of time to file my business tax returns?

If you need more time to file your business tax return, you can file for an extension using Form 7004. This form must be filed by the original due date of your return. Keep in mind that an extension of time to file is not an extension of time to pay. If you owe taxes, you should still pay them by the original due date of your return. You can also file for an extension online using the IRS e-file system. For our clients, we file extensions automatically to avoid penalties and interests.

What is the difference between a corporate tax return and an individual tax return?

A corporate tax return is filed by a corporation and reports the income, gains, losses, deductions, and credits of the corporation. Corporations are taxable on their net taxable income at a flat rate. An individual tax return is filed by an individual and reports the income, taxes, deductions, and credits of the individual. We recommend to small business owners to incorporate their business, so that they don't have to report their business transactions at the personal level to minimize the chances of getting audited. Also, many times, it is easy to obtain business finances through a corporation than at the personal level. Individuals are taxed on their taxable income at a progressive's tax rate.

What business expenses are tax deductible?

To be tax deductible, a business expense must be both ordinary and necessary but not a personal expense. An ordinary expense is one that is common and accepted in your trade or business. A necessary expense is one that is helpful and appropriate for your trade or business. The following are some examples of common business tax deductions: salaries and wages, rents, health insurance, taxes and licenses, interest, charitable contributions, depreciation, advertising, pension, and profit-sharing programs, Sec 199A(g) deductions, telephone, legal and accounting services, professional dues and subscriptions, utility costs and other ordinary and necessary expenses to run your business. It is important to notice that some expenses must be capitalized or added to inventory even if they are ordinary and necessary. You should consult with tax professionals to make sure that you are taking advantage of all expenses allowed by the IRS code because it may not cover all actual expenses.

Are business gifts to clients tax deductible?

Yes, gifts to clients are tax deductible. However, there are limits on the amount that can be deducted. For example, the deduction for gifts to clients is limited to $25 per client per year. If you have any questions about deducting gifts to clients, you should contact a certified public accountant or tax attorney. They can help you fully understand all deductions and tax benefits.

Can business expenses be deducted without receipts?

If you have business expenses without receipts, you may still be able to deduct them. The IRS allows businesses to deduct "reasonable and necessary" expenses. However, it is up to the taxpayer to prove that the expenses are reasonable and necessary. This can be done by keeping good records and documentation of all business expenses. If you have questions about whether or not your expenses are deductible, you should contact a certified public accountant or tax attorney. They can help you determine if your expenses are deductible and how to best document them. It is important to have a business bank account to pay your business expenses.

Do I need to pay estimated taxes for my business?

If you expect to owe taxes of $1,000 or more for the year, you will need to pay estimated taxes. Estimated taxes are paid in four installments throughout the year: April 15, June 15, September 15, and January 15. If you do not pay your estimated taxes on time, you will be subject to late payment penalties. The late payment penalty is 0.5% of the unpaid tax for each month or part of a month that the payment is late. The maximum late payment penalty is 25%. In addition to the late payment penalty, you will also be responsible for paying interest on any unpaid tax. It is important to pay your estimated taxes on time to avoid these penalties and interest charges.

How can I reduce my business taxes?

There are several ways to reduce your business taxes. One way is to take advantage of all the deductions and tax credits that you are entitled to. Another way is to structure your business as a pass-through entity, such as an S corporation or LLC. This will allow you to avoid double taxation on your business income. You can also invest in tax-advantaged retirement plans, such as a 401(k) or SEP IRA. These plans will allow you to save for retirement while reducing your current taxes. Finally, you can locate your business in a tax-friendly state, such as Florida or Texas. Working with a CPA firm that is familiar with business taxes can save thousands of dollars in taxes and prevent headaches in the future.

How can I amend my corporate tax return?

If you need to amend your business tax return, you will need to file a Form 1120X, Amended U.S. Corporate Tax Return. This form must be filed within three years of the date the original return was due or within two years of the date the tax was paid, whichever is later. You will need to include the reason for the amendment, as well as any additional information or documentation. Once Form 1120X is filed, the IRS will process the amendment and issue any refunds or request the additional taxes owed. If you have any questions about filing a corporate tax return or amending a business tax return, please contact our office. We are here to help!

Do I need to file a return for my business even if I do not have income?

If you are in business, you may need to file a business tax return even if your business did not generate any income during the year. This is because you may still be required to pay taxes not related to income. In addition, you may need to file a return in order to claim certain business deductions or credits. Remember, if you do not file the business return, your business may be liable or become delinquent. Businesses owned by foreign individuals have to file tax returns even when they have no income to avoid huge penalties. If you are not sure whether or not you need to file a business tax return, please contact our office. We would be happy to help you determine whether or not you need to file.

Do I need to file a final return when my business closes?

Yes, when you close your business, you will need to file a final return. This is because you will need to report the income and expenses for the final year of operation. In addition, you will need to pay any taxes that are owed. If you do not file the final return, your business may be liable or become delinquent. By filing the final return, you are informing the IRS that the business is closed. Yes, please file your final return so the IRS will not continue to request information from you and eventually take action if the business becomes delinquent.

Can I pay and deduct my personal expenses from my business?

No, you cannot pay and deduct your personal expenses from your business. Claiming such expenses on a return, whether intentionally or unintentionally, can result in tax penalties and interest. Additionally, in some cases, it can become criminal if there is an intent to defraud the government. Small business owners should not mix their personal expenses with their business expenses.

When do I have to issue Form 1099-MISC to contractors and freelancers?

You must issue a Form 1099-MISC to any contractor or freelancer who you have paid $600 or more in a year for services. Services can include labor, rents, commissions, and other forms of payment for services. You will need to provide the contractor or freelancer with their Social Security Number or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number so that you can properly file the form.

What is the difference between a contractor and an employee?

A contractor is an independent worker who provides services to a company but is not an employee of that company. A company will usually have a written contract with a contractor that outlines the scope of work to be performed and the compensation for those services. An employee, on the other hand, is hired by a company and works under the company's direction. The company controls when, where, and how the employee does their work. The company also withholds taxes from an employee's paycheck and pays Social Security and Medicare taxes on behalf of the employee. Small businesses shall avoid treating employees as contractors because they may end up paying the taxes for their employees.

What is a federal tax lien?

A federal tax lien is a legal claim the government makes on your property when you don't pay your taxes. The lien gives the IRS the right to take your property, sell it, and use the proceeds to pay your unpaid taxes. Federal tax liens are public records, so they can damage your credit score and make it difficult to get loans or buy property. If you don't pay your taxes and the IRS files a lien, they may also garnish your wages or seize your bank account. A tax lien can be released if you pay your taxes in full, or if you enter into an agreement with the IRS to pay off your taxes over time.

What is a federal tax levy?

A tax levy is a legal process the IRS uses to collect unpaid taxes. The IRS can garnish your wages, seize your bank account, or take other action to collect the money you owe. Tax levies are different from tax liens, which are a claim the government makes on your property.

Wage garnishment happens when the IRS sends a notice to your employer telling them to withhold a certain amount of your paycheck to go towards your unpaid taxes. The money is taken out of your paycheck before you receive it, and you don't have the opportunity to spend it or save it. A bank levy happens when the IRS sends a notice to your bank ordering them to freeze your account and turn over the money in it to the IRS. The bank will usually freeze your account for 21 days, during which time you can try to negotiate with the IRS to release the levy.

If you are facing a tax levy, it's important to act quickly. The sooner you take action, the more options you will have.

What is a federal tax audit?

A federal tax audit is an examination of your tax return by the IRS to determine whether you have reported your income and taxes correctly. The IRS usually audits less than 1% of all individual tax returns and less than 2% of all business tax returns. If you are selected for an audit, the IRS will send you a notice in the mail telling you that your return has been selected for examination. The notice will give you instructions on how to proceed. There are two types of audits: correspondence audits and field audits. In a correspondence audit, the IRS will request additional information from you through the mail. In a field audit, an IRS agent will come to your home or place of business to examine your records. If the IRS finds that you have underpaid your taxes, you will be liable for the unpaid taxes, plus interest and penalties. If the IRS finds that you have overpaid your taxes, you will be refunded the amount of the overpayment, plus interest.

Today small businesses are not audited as often as before, but the government approved an increase in the IRS budget so this may not be the case in the near future. As a small business owner, you should be prepared for an IRS audit at all times to avoid future problems.

If you are facing a tax audit, it's important to seek professional help. An experienced accountant or tax attorney if necessary, can help you with the audit process.

How can I avoid being audited by the IRS?

There is no guaranteed way to avoid being audited by the IRS, but there are some things you can do to minimize your chances of being selected. First, make sure that you file your tax return on time. Second, make sure that you report all of your income. The IRS uses computer programs to match the information on your tax return with the information that businesses and financial institutions report to the IRS. If there are discrepancies, your return is more likely to be selected for audit. Third, take care to claim only the deductions and credits you are entitled to. If you claim deductions or credits that you are not eligible for, your return is more likely to be selected for audit. Finally, if you are self-employed, make sure to keep good records of your income and expenses.

If you are selected for an audit, the best thing to do is to seek professional help. An experienced accountant or tax attorney can help you with the audit process.

What should I do if I am audited by the IRS?

If you are selected for an audit, the best thing to do is to seek professional help. An experienced accountant or tax attorney can help you with the audit process. The IRS will send you a notice in the mail telling you that your return has been selected for examination. The notice will give you instructions on how to proceed.

An experienced tax professional can help you understand the notice and what it means for you. They can also help you gather the necessary documentation and evidence to support your position. You should be represented by a professional at any face-to-face meetings with the IRS. If you are being audited by the IRS, it is important to act quickly and seek professional help. An experienced accountant or tax attorney can help you through the audit process. The sooner you take action, the more options you will have.

Why does a corporate tax department outsource its tax compliance functions?

There are a number of reasons why a corporate tax department might outsource its tax compliance functions. One reason is to free up resources so that the department can focus on more strategic tasks. Another reason is to reduce costs.

When outsourcing tax preparation, businesses should select a reputable and experienced firm to handle its tax compliance needs. If the work is not outsourced to a knowledgeable firm, the business is increasing its compliance risks. Some common tax compliance risks for businesses include failing to file tax returns on time, failing to pay taxes owed, and claiming deductions or credits that the business is not entitled to. These risks can lead to significant penalties and interest charges. To avoid these risks, businesses should make sure they work with a reputable CPA firm.

Who should I contact if I have questions about my business taxes?

If you have questions about your business taxes, you should contact a certified public accountant (CPA) or a tax attorney. They can help you understand your tax obligations and ensure that you comply with the tax laws. If you try to save money by working with an unlicensed accountant, you may not be taking all allowable deductions and credits and as a result, you may be paying more taxes than required by the law.

When it comes to your business taxes, it's always better to be safe than sorry. Contacting a certified public accountant or tax attorney is the best way to ensure that you are in compliance with the law and that you are not paying more taxes than you need to. Before you seek professional advice, remember to always check with your state regulators to find out if your accountant is licensed by the state.

Conclusion

When it comes to business taxes, there are a lot of things to keep in mind. Business owners need to be aware of the various tax deductions and credits they may be eligible for, as well as their tax obligations. If you have questions about your business taxes, you should contact a certified public accountant or tax attorney to receive the most accurate tax advice. They can help you understand your tax obligations and ensure that you comply with the law. Contacting a licensed professional is the best way to ensure that you are not paying more taxes than you need to.

question-hco-01-1