Stay Ahead of the Curve with Pathfinder Accounting Services: Key Small Business Deadlines
Running a small business means juggling many hats—and staying on top of tax and compliance deadlines is one of the most important (and sometimes challenging) tasks. At Pathfinder Accounting Services, we’ve got your back. Let us take you on a journey through the critical dates you need to know, so you can keep your business humming and avoid any last-minute scrambles.
Here’s your roadmap to success:
Key Deadlines for Small Businesses
We know missing a deadline can lead to unnecessary stress and penalties. Let’s break down the dates that every small business owner should have circled on their calendar:
January 31 – File and Send W-2 Forms Employers must file W-2 forms with the IRS and provide them to employees. This ensures your workforce receives accurate income and tax documentation for the year.
January 31 – File and Send 1099 Forms Mail out 1099 forms to your contractors and file them with the IRS.
March 15 – S Corporation & Partnership Tax Returns Submit Form 1120S (for S Corporations) or Form 1065 (for Partnerships) to stay compliant.
April 15 – Tax Filing and Quarterly Estimated Payments (Q1)
File individual (Form 1040) and C Corporation (Form 1120) tax returns.
Don’t forget to make your first quarterly estimated tax payment for the year!
April 15 – Annual Trust Tax Return Deadline File Form 1041 for trusts and estates to ensure compliance with federal tax regulations.
June 15 – Quarterly Estimated Tax Payments (Q2) Ensure your second quarterly estimated payment is on time to avoid penalties.
September 15 – Quarterly Estimated Tax Payments (Q3) Keep your finances in shape with your third estimated payment.
October 15 – Extended Tax Returns Deadline Final chance to file extended individual (Form 1040) and C Corporation (Form 1120) returns.
December 31 – Max Out IRA and 401(k) Contributions
Last day to make contributions to your IRA for the tax year.
For small business owners, ensure employee deferrals for solo 401(k) plans are made by this date.
Employer contributions to 401(k) plans can typically be made up until your business tax filing deadline, including extensions.
Pro Tips for Staying Organized
State-Specific Statement of Information Filings: Depending on your business's state of incorporation, you may be required to file an annual or biennial Statement of Information. For example, California businesses must typically file this document with the Secretary of State to update company details such as addresses and officers. Make sure to research your state's specific filing requirements to avoid penalties.
Stay Updated on State Deadlines: Many states have additional tax requirements, so be sure to review your state-specific guidelines.
Sales Tax Submissions: Depending on your business type and location, sales tax deadlines may occur monthly, quarterly, or annually.
Track Retirement Plan Deadlines: For business owners offering retirement plans like 401(k)s, remember that employee deferral deadlines and employer contributions may have different cutoff dates. Proper planning is key!
How Pathfinder Accounting Services Can Help
When it comes to navigating the financial landscape, Pathfinder Accounting Services is here to be your steady compass. We offer:
Personalized solutions to keep you in line with federal and state compliance requirements.
Proactive strategies to minimize your tax liability while maximizing savings.
Year-round support to ensure you never miss an important date.
Ready to Simplify Your Tax Season?
Pathfinder Accounting Services is your partner in stress-free financial management. Reach out to us at pathfinderas.com to book a consultation or ask any questions about your specific needs. Let's help you focus on running your business while we handle the details.
Don’t just meet your deadlines—conquer them with confidence.