Tax Tips for U.S. New Business Owner

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Tax Tips for U.S. New Business Owner

 

Congratulations! You start a new business in U.S. However, understanding the tax responsibilities that come with starting a business venture is also significant for you as the business owner. This article will give you some tax tips of starting a new business based on IRS resources.

 

  1. Choose a business structure

 

The form of business determines which income tax return a business taxpayer needs to file. The most common business structures are:

 

(1)     Sole proprietorship: An unincorporated business owned by an individual. There is no distinction between the taxpayer and their business.

(2)     Partnership: An unincorporated business with ownership shared between two or more people.

(3)     Corporation: Also known as a C corporation. It is a separate entity owned by shareholders.

(4)     S Corporation: A corporation that elects to pass corporate income, losses, deductions, and credits through to the shareholders.

(5)     Limited Liability Company: A business structure allowed by state statute.

 

  1. Choose a tax year

 

A tax year is an annual accounting period for keeping records and reporting income and expenses. A new business owner must choose either:

 

(1)     Calendar year: 12 consecutive months beginning January 1 and ending December 31.

(2)     Fiscal year: 12 consecutive months ending on the last day of any month except December.

 

  1. Apply for an employer identification number (EIN)

 

An EIN is also called a federal tax identification number. It is used to identify a business. Most businesses need one of these numbers. It is important for a business with an EIN to keep the business mailing address, location, and responsible party up to date. IRS regulations require EIN holders to report changes in the responsible party within 60 days. They do this by completing Form 8822-B, Change of Address or Responsible Party and mailing it to the address on the form.

 

  1. If you have employees

 

You should have all employees complete these forms: Form I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification U.S. Citizenship, and Immigration Services; Form W-4, Employee’s Withholding Allowance Certificate.

 

  1. Pay business taxes

 

The form of business determines what taxes must be paid and how to pay them.

 

  1. Visit state’s website

 

Prospective business owners should visit their state’s website for info about state requirements.

 

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