How Business Owners Can Save Time and Money During Tax Season
First, take my advice and meet with an accountant at least two-to-three times a year and ask about these items below that will potentially create big cost and time savings.
Most people do not enjoy preparing taxes, filing taxes, or meeting with accountants. But taxes can be a small business owner’s biggest expense. Between federal and state taxes, a small business owner will pay anywhere from 20-30 percent of their income on average and most can’t afford to not focus on minimizing tax costs.
Saving by buying equipment, furniture, and computers
Businesses that are eligible can write off up to $1M of capital expenditures (equipment, computers, machinery, etc.). Under Section 179 of the tax code, small businesses receive a deduction immediately and finance the costs instead of paying right away.
Saving through innovation
Some small businesses qualify for the Research and Development Tax Credit. It can be used for developing or improving a product or process, particularly if the process involves chemistry, engineering, or software development. There is a calculation that must be performed and since it can be complex, accountants may recommend an outside firm. Remember, this is a credit, not a deduction. That means businesses can offset the amount against taxes owed. Even if they do not owe any taxes, they can carry it back or forward.
Saving by hiring family
Some small business leaders can put their children on payroll and take a deduction for the cost if the child has no other income. The child may not even have to file a tax return depending on how much is earned. A middle school or high school child that can perform legitimate services (filings, moving, paperwork, data entry) can be put to good use. They can learn a few good work practices and earn a few bucks for their savings.
Saving on bad receivables and inventory
Small businesses should be diligently writing off bad receivables and inventory. Show accountants the businesses’ receivables ledger and walk them around inventory. If there are receivables hanging around for more than 90 days, then write them off in the books. The same goes for old inventory — dispose of that stuff. They can’t be deducted until they are removed entirely from the books and premises.
Saving for higher education
Small business leaders can start a 529 plan for themselves and their employees. Available in all states, this plan helps put after-tax money away into a savings account. It will grow tax-free to be used for higher education expenses such as tuition, room, board, books, and many other related items. Check with an accountant for a recommendation.
Saving on home office equipment
Those with a side hustle or small business might qualify for home office deductions if it is the principal place of business, meeting location, or a separate structure. It should be exclusive and regular, so not a bedroom. The deduction can be based on actual expenses, to include utilities, internet, etc. The easiest option is the "simplified method" that deducts up to $5 per square foot (maximum 300 square feet) based on the square footage that the office occupies in the house
Saving on retirement
Maximize 401(K) plan and IRA contributions. Qualified individuals can put up to $20,500 into their 401(K) plan and another $6,000 into an IRA plan. Employees whose employer matches contributions can put as much as $61,000 into their 401(K) plans. Don't forget after-tax plans like a Roth IRA or 529 plan. With these, even though contributions are after taxes, they will grow tax free.
Digitize your documents
Tax prep can be a lot easier and less time consuming with digital technologies like Adobe Acrobat. Easily gather and organize paper and digital tax documents in a snap, combine them into one PDF, and access them in one place.
Taxes eat up a giant share of small business profits, but with the right planning, there are steps that can minimize expenses and produce more savings.
If you have any questions, need tax consultation or tax preparedness services, contact me today!
Blog source - cpapracticeadvisor
