SOUTH JORDAN 2/1/2012 4:00:00 PM
News / Business

How Small Businesses Choose Tax Preparation Vendors

Tax season means that many small businesses are turning to financial management services to outsource their tax preparation

Tax season is here again, which means that all around the country small business owners are turning their attention to getting their 2011 taxes filed. Unlike the majority of individuals who can do their taxes with a few clicks of the mouse, however, there is no quick and easy way to prepare taxes for a small business. The tax code is just too complicated and there are too many regulations and loopholes to be aware of.

For most small businesses owners, then, the solution is outsourcing tax preparation to a financial management company that specializes in small business tax preparation. With the help of these tax professionals and accounting experts, small businesses are able to stay on the right side of the law by paying exactly what they owe to Uncle Sam.

Small Business Tax Basics

Much of what makes filing business taxes so complicated is knowing which document goes where. While the IRS treats all business structures (limited liability company, sole proprietorship, partnership, etc.) the same for tax purposes, there are different forms that must be filed for each of these business types. There are times, for example, when a corporation may incur taxes where a sole proprietorship would not. In addition, it is important to know which business documents, like receipts, to keep against an eventual IRS audit. Knowing when and how a business is supposed to be taxed is the job of a financial management vendor.

Another important part of tax preparation for small businesses is knowing when to take deductibles. Deductibles are ordinary, necessary and reasonable costs that are paid in order to operate and manage a business. A company that specializes in business tax services can help determine when a deductible is appropriate.

Selecting a Tax Preparation Vendor

Before choosing a tax preparation company, small businesses should take a look at what the options are. Depending on the style of the owner, he or she may elect to go with either a local or an online company.

Outsourcing taxes to a company that specializes in this area of service saves most small business owner’s money and time. It is essential, however, to select a tax services vendor that meets the needs of the business and fits well with what the goals of the company are. Most small businesses find it helpful to talk over these specific objectives in addition to expense details.

Tax preparation is something that cannot be ignored. Many businesses use the same tax preparation services for long periods of time, so finding a financial management service that works well with the business is a high priority for many owners in this time of year.