Tax season can be an incredibly stressful time for business owners, and many are worried that they are going to make a serious mistake that will come back to haunt them. Luckily, most mistakes can be circumvented with a little extra planning and care. By starting this process early, you might be able to avoid some of the stress that so many people experience during this time of the year. Preparing strategically for tax season will help help you avoid any unnecessary company debt.
Start Creating Files Now
Depending on what industry you are in and how you keep your financial records, you should immediately start creating digital or physical files and folders to organize your information. While it is a better idea to do this throughout the year, many business owners find themselves slowly slacking off as time goes on and they get busier. Spending five minutes a day on paperwork throughout the year could save you from spending dozens of hours organizing your information during tax season.
Uncover Your Deductibles
For business owners, tax season is about much more than paying the government. This time of year allows you to take advantage of the many incentives they offer businesses of all sizes. Unfortunately, many people simply have no idea how they can identify and track their deductibles, and that is why it might be a good idea to work with a company such as Harwood Financial Group. These firms can often find a variety of deductions ranging from car expenses to petty change used for office supplies.
Don't Neglect Charitable Work
If you have considered contributing to a charity in the name of your business, then now might be the perfect time to do it. Every company can deduct a certain amount of their charitable work, and that includes any of your goods you have donated. Whenever you work with a charitable organization, you must be sure to have them write receipts and provide you with their 501(c)(3) tax exemption identification number so you are in legal compliance. And while it shouldn't be the sole reason for your charitable work, it will be excellent for your company's public relations. Give and you shall receive!
Calculate an Estimate
Your accountant or financial firm should provide you with a rough tax estimate when you do your free efile so that you can start getting your company ready. These estimates will give you a much better idea of whether you can aggressively expand in the coming year or you need to put together a cushion. You will also be able to file for an extension early so that you do not get hit with any penalties.
As with many other aspects of owning a business, staying organized throughout the year can help you avoid major financial mistakes down the road. As your company continues to grow and you learn more about this process, you can begin adopting tax reduction strategies to further improve your bottom line.
I hope you enjoyed this article about getting your business finances prepared for tax season.
Interested in more articles about business finance?
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Published by Michael J Schiemer
Owner of Bootstrap Business
Marketing - Media- Money - Motivation
Mike Schiemer Builds Better Business
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