Navigating tax requirements is one of the most challenging aspects of running a small business in Massachusetts. From corporate excise taxes to sales and use taxes, the Commonwealth's tax landscape can be complex and is constantly evolving

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Massachusetts Small Business Tax Guide: Essential Tips

Whether you just launched your Nashville startup or have been running a family shop in Memphis for generations, understanding Tennessee’s small business taxes and your obligations is crucial. State taxes affect day-to-day operations, including

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Tennessee Small Business Tax Guide for 2025

Whether you operate in Atlanta or elsewhere in the state, understanding tax obligations is critical for Georgia-based small businesses, as state taxes impact core operations and influence financial planning. Keeping up with Georgia's ever-changing tax landscape, includ

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Georgia Small Business Tax Guide for 2025

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) offers extended tax deadlines to qualifying individuals and businesses.<a href="https://1800accountant.com/blog/benefits-of-a-tax-extension">You may be wondering if you qualify for a 2025 tax extension</a> or how to go about it for one of the following dates:&nbsp;<ul><li>May 1 extension for Hurricane Helene&nbsp;</li><li>June 16 or September 16 quarterly estimated taxes&nbsp;</li><li>October 15 extension for the Los Angeles County wildfires&nbsp;</li><li>November 3 extension for Kentucky storms and flooding</li></ul>Extensions are typically created due to federal declarations, various natural disasters, and IRS system issues and delays. Common scenarios that <a href="https://1800accountant.com/blog/llc-tax-deadlines">might trigger an extended tax deadline</a> include:&nbsp;<ul><li>Taxpayers in disaster-declared areas</li><li><a href="https://1800accountant.com/blog/llc-tax-forms-for-small-businesses">Businesses filing quarterly estimated taxes</a></li><li>Taxpayers who filed IRS Form 4868 for personal tax extensions</li></ul>Use this blog to understand if you or your business qualifies for an extension, what you should know if you do, and other considerations, such as the consequences of missing a tax deadline extension.&nbsp;<h2>Key Extended Tax Deadlines for 2025</h2><h3>Federal Income Tax Extensions</h3>Individuals and businesses can file federal income tax extensions, typically giving them six additional months to file. However, this usually doesn't afford them extra time to pay. Payments must be submitted to the IRS or other tax authorities by the original deadline to avoid penalties.&nbsp;<h4>Individual Taxpayers</h4>Individual taxpayers, including W-2 employees and pass-through business owners, will typically submit their completed return and any payments by the April 15 filing deadline. However, sometimes people need extra time to prepare and file their tax return accurately, which is why the IRS offers an automatic six-month extension.Individual taxpayers should complete and submit <a href="https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-form-4868" target="_blank">IRS Form 4868, Application for Automatic Extension of Time to File U.S. Individual Income Tax Return</a>, before the April 15 deadline to request additional time.Because the extension is granted automatically, taxpayers usually won't receive confirmation, but they are free to contact the IRS to confirm as an additional safety measure.&nbsp;<h4>Businesses and Corporations &nbsp;&nbsp;</h4>Like individual taxpayers, businesses and corporations, including S corporations, C corporations, and partnerships, can also file for an extension. While the base process is essentially the same, businesses and corporations use different forms and may have different extension dates.&nbsp;C corporations must file a return by April 15, while S corporations and partnerships must file by March 15. Because the filing date fell on a weekend in 2025, the filing deadline for S corporations and partnerships was moved to the next business day, March 17.&nbsp;S corporation, C corporation, and partnership owners can file for an automatic six-month filing extension using <a href="https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-form-7004" target="_blank">IRS Form 7004, Application for Automatic Extension of Time To File Certain Business Income Tax, Information, and Other Returns</a>.&nbsp;Like IRS Form 4868, businesses will not receive a confirmation from the IRS regarding this extension.&nbsp;<h4>Quarterly Estimated Payments</h4>Businesses in states and areas impacted by disaster declarations typically receive an extension to file quarterly estimated taxes. Unlike the extensions detailed above, businesses don't normally file for this type of extension.The extension dates aren't uniform from state to state, so impacted businesses should check with the IRS or other authorities to confirm their new quarterly estimated tax deadlines.&nbsp;<h3>IRS Disaster Relief Extensions</h3>Unfortunately, several events and disasters have caused the need for the IRS to extend filing dates for individuals and businesses impacted. Browse the IRS's <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/tax-relief-in-disaster-situations" target="_blank">Tax relief in disaster situations page</a> for more information, including state-level details and tax relief by date.The IRS also provides helpful <a href="https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/faqs-for-disaster-victims" target="_blank">FAQs for disaster victims</a> on tax returns, payments, and the definition of an impacted taxpayer.According to the IRS, an affected taxpayer includes an individual, any business entity or sole proprietor, and any shareholder in an S corporation. Taxpayers do not have to be located in a federally declared disaster area to be an “affected taxpayer”. They are considered “affected” if records necessary to meet a filing or payment deadline are postponed during the relief period in a covered disaster area.<h2>States and Counties with Extended Tax Deadlines in 2025</h2><h3>May 1, 2025 Deadline</h3>The following states received IRS disaster relief from Hurricane Helene, severe storms, or related natural disasters. The extension applies to individual and business tax returns originally due March or April 2025, 2024 quarterly estimated tax payments, and 2023 returns on valid extensions. Unless otherwise noted, this applies to the entire state.<ul><li>Alabama</li><li>Florida</li><li>Georgia</li><li>North Carolina</li><li>South Carolina</li><li>Tennessee (Eight counties impacted by Hurricane Helene)</li><li>Virginia (Six counties and one city affected by Hurricane Helene)</li><li>West Virginia (Mercer County impacted by Post-Tropical Cyclone Helene)</li></ul><h3>October 15, 2025 Deadline</h3>Los Angeles County taxpayers and businesses impacted by the extensive January 2025 wildfires received an extension. They have until October 15, 2025, to prepare and submit their tax returns.<a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/irs-california-wildfire-victims-qualify-for-tax-relief-various-deadlines-postponed-to-oct-15" target="_blank">According to the IRS, this tax extension applies to</a>:&nbsp;<ul><li>Individual income tax returns and payments that are normally due on April 15</li><li>2024 contributions to IRAs and health savings accounts for eligible taxpayers</li><li>2024 quarterly estimated income tax payments are normally due on Jan. 15, 2025, and estimated tax payments normally due on April 15, June 16, and Sept. 15, 2025</li><li>Quarterly payroll and excise tax returns normally due on Jan. 31, April 30, and July 31, 2025</li><li>Calendar-year partnership and S corporation returns normally due on March 17, 2025</li><li>Calendar-year corporation and fiduciary returns and payments normally due on April 15, 2025</li><li>Calendar-year tax-exempt organization returns normally due on May 15, 2025</li></ul><h3>November 3, 2025 Deadline</h3>In February 2025, the entire state of Kentucky experienced severe storms, flooding, and landslides. As a result, certain deadlines falling on or after February 14 and before November 3 are granted additional time to file. This extension applies to individuals, businesses, and payroll returns.<a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/irs-announces-tax-relief-for-taxpayers-impacted-by-severe-storms-straight-line-winds-flooding-and-landslides-in-kentucky-various-deadlines-postponed-to-nov-3" target="_blank">Deadlines for affected businesses include</a>:<ul><li>Quarterly payroll and excise tax returns normally due on April 30, July 31, and October 31, 2025.</li><li>Calendar-year partnership and S corporation returns normally due on March 17, 2025.</li><li>Calendar-year corporation and fiduciary returns and payments normally due on April 15, 2025.</li><li>Calendar-year tax-exempt organization returns normally due on May 15, 2025.</li></ul><h2>Where to Find the Most Up-to-Date IRS Information</h2>It's important to check for updates regularly that may impact your tax situation. We recommend the following official resources to ensure you're always informed and moving forward.&nbsp;<ul><li><a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/tax-relief-in-disaster-situations" target="_blank">IRS Tax Relief in Disaster Situations</a></li><li><a href="https://www.irs.gov/help/ita" target="_blank">IRS Interactive Tax Assistant</a></li><li><a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom" target="_blank">IRS Newsroom</a></li></ul><a href="https://www.usatoday.com/story/money/2025/04/14/tax-deadline-tennessee-arkansas/83090907007/" target="_blank">If you work with a tax preparer or virtual accounting firm</a>, they will monitor changes and make adjustments on your behalf.&nbsp;<h2>What Happens If You Miss the Extended Deadline?</h2>Taxpayers and businesses who miss the extended tax deadline may receive penalties from the IRS. If you need more time beyond the applicable deadline, you may be able to file an extension, which will provide more time to file but not to pay.If you miss the extended deadline, submitting your tax return as soon as possible is in your best interest. <a href="https://1800accountant.com/blog/what-happens-if-you-dont-file-taxes">IRS penalties accrue, so the sooner you file, even if it's late, the better</a>.If you can't pay your tax bill immediately, consider applying for an IRS payment plan to ensure you pay your balance over time. You may apply as an individual, an authorized representative of someone else, or a business. <a href="https://www.irs.gov/payments/online-payment-agreement-application" target="_blank">Apply online with the IRS</a> for immediate approval notification and eligibility requirements.&nbsp;<h2>How 1-800Accountant Can Help with Tax Extensions</h2>When individuals, freelancers, and small businesses are impacted by natural disasters, taxes become less of a priority as they pick up the pieces. While extensions and other gestures from the government are helpful, you can't lose sight of your tax obligations for long. If you're struggling to meet upcoming tax deadlines for any reason, 1-800Accountant, America's leading virtual accounting firm, can help.Our proactive tax solutions can handle your <a href="https://1800accountant.com/blog/file-for-an-extension">IRS Form 4868 and late filing needs</a>, disaster extension documentation, and support during an audit. We also provide access to your accounting team year-round, giving you peace of mind during a difficult time. Schedule a quick consultation–usually 30 minutes or less—to learn how we can support your unique tax and extension needs.

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) offers extended tax deadlines to qualifying individuals and businesses. You may be wondering if you qualify for a 2025 tax extension or how to go about it for one of the following dates:

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Extended Tax Deadlines for 2025: Do You Qualify?

Small business owners can finance large purchases or generate quick cash by taking out business loans. Small business loans offer opportunities for growth and improving cash flow.Your business must repay the loan funds, and you may wonder: Are business loans tax-deductible?While loan repayments do not generate tax deductions, your business can write off loan interest expense. Business loan interest payments can reduce taxable income and lower your tax burden.This article explains how borrowers can generate tax benefits from interest expense.&nbsp;We’ll explore the tax-deductible components of business loan payments and explain how the tax laws apply to your business. We’ll also provide tips on which documents your business should retain to support your interest deductions.<h2>Business Loans and Tax Deductions</h2><h3>Types of Loans</h3>Financial institutions offer a wide range of business loans. Consider the following financing options, suitable for a variety of business purposes.<ul><li>SBA loan: Business owners can apply for financing through the <a href="https://www.sba.gov/funding-programs/loans" target="_blank">U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA)</a>. Approved borrowers receive loan proceeds from private lenders. SBA loans often have lower interest rates and longer repayment terms. Startups can enjoy favorable financing terms.</li><li>Term loan: Borrowers can obtain long- or short-term loans for numerous business needs. Banks offer varying loan repayment periods and interest rates.</li><li>Business line of credit: Lines of credit allow business owners to obtain short-term financing for small projects, working capital, or immediate cash flow needs.</li><li>Refinancing: Business owners can refinance one or more business loans to obtain lower interest rates or shorter repayment periods.</li><li>Equipment financing: Lenders provide loans specifically for funding equipment purchases. Business owners generally offer the equipment as collateral to secure the loan.</li><li>Commercial real estate or construction loan: Real estate and construction loans support the purchase or construction of real property, such as multi-family residences, office buildings, or retail spaces. Developers use the property as debt collateral. Financing terms and interest rates vary depending on the business purpose.</li><li>Business credit card: Business credit cards offer immediate funds for short-term business expenses. Financial institutions generally impose high interest rates on credit card accounts, promoting faster repayment.&nbsp;</li></ul>Small business owners can choose from many additional options for initial funding or when considering a second loan. The experts at <a href="https://1800accountant.com/services/business-tax-advisory">1-800Accountant can help your business understand the tax implications</a>.<h3>Loan Components</h3>If you’ve opened a personal credit card, taken out a student loan, or obtained a home mortgage, you’re probably familiar with debt repayment structures.Loan components generally include the principal, loan fees, and interest.For example, consider a $20,000 loan. The principal represents the loan amount of $20,000. The borrower may need to pay upfront loan fees ranging from $100 to $600. Interest accrues unpaid principal and interest. Interest rates vary depending on numerous factors.Interest can compound daily, monthly, or at longer intervals. Business loan interest often compounds daily.<h3>Business Loan Interest Deductions</h3>Income tax laws generally allow businesses to write off interest expense. Deductible interest expense includes interest incurred for business purposes.Eligible taxpayers include corporations, partnerships, sole proprietors, and limited liability companies (LLCs). However, limitations apply.Taxpayers must follow the Internal Revenue Code <a href="https://www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/text/26/163" target="_blank">Section 163(j)</a> rules, which limit interest expense deductions for certain businesses. The <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/basic-questions-and-answers-about-the-limitation-on-the-deduction-for-business-interest-expense" target="_blank">Internal Revenue Service (IRS) offers practical guidance</a> on the rules.<h4>Business Interest Expense Limitation</h4>Taxpayers with gross receipts exceeding $30 million must use a formula to calculate deductible business interest expense. Businesses in specific industries, such as real estate or farming, can elect out of the limitation.For relevant taxpayers, the maximum interest expense deduction represents the total of the following:&nbsp;<ul><li>30% of adjusted taxable income: Adjusted taxable income represents business earnings before income tax. Taxpayers can no longer include addbacks for <a href="https://1800accountant.com/blog/section-179-everything-you-need-to-know">depreciation</a> or amortization expense.</li><li>Business interest income: Relevant items include interest earned on business bank accounts, loans to customers or third parties, and business investments.</li></ul><ul><li>Floor plan financing interest expense: Floor plan financing often applies to car dealerships and high-cost equipment retailers.</li></ul>If interest expense limitations apply to your company, your business can carry forward nondeductible interest expense.<h3>How to Deduct Business Interest Expense</h3>When filing your <a href="https://1800accountant.com/blog/how-much-do-small-businesses-pay-in-taxes">business income tax return</a>, report the interest expense incurred during the tax year. Each business tax form includes a line for interest expense deductions.Be sure to maintain appropriate records to support your tax deductions.We recommend <a href="https://1800accountant.com/services/small-business-taxes">partnering with business tax professionals</a> for help calculating and reporting your interest expense deduction. 1-800Accountant offers small business accounting and tax filing services to support accurate, timely compliance.<h2>Why Loan Principal Repayments Aren’t Tax-Deductible</h2>Your business can write off interest expense, but principal repayments represent nondeductible transactions.Consider the following reasons:<ul><li>Loan proceeds do not represent taxable income, meaning the business does not pay income tax on the cash loan proceeds. Similarly, the principal repayment is not a tax deduction.</li><li>Accounting entries for the monthly payments of principal include a decrease in cash and liabilities. The entry does not include income statement accounts. Unlike interest, principal repayments do not generate an expense.</li></ul><h3>Other Nondeductible Loan Costs</h3>Upfront loan costs, such as credit reports and collateral appraisal fees, generally represent nondeductible business expenses. Additionally, personal loans cannot generate business tax deductions. Business owners must track personal expenses separately.Several business loan costs may generate tax deductions throughout the loan repayment period. Your business must generally <a href="https://www.law.cornell.edu/cfr/text/26/1.263(a)-5" target="_blank">capitalize the following loan fees</a> and deduct amortization expense over time.<ul><li>Loan application and origination fees</li><li>Filing and closing costs</li><li>Broker and legal fees</li></ul>Tax implications depend on the loan agreement, so we recommend <a href="https://1800accountant.com/services/small-business-taxes">partnering with business tax experts for accurate calculations and reporting</a>.<h2>Keeping Your Loan Records Straight</h2>Business owners should maintain loan records and documentation to support tax deductions. Consider the following loan document checklist for your business.&nbsp;<ul><li>Loan agreements, including repayment schedules, interest rates, and relevant financing terms</li><li>Origination fees, closing costs, and related amortization schedules</li><li>Periodic loan statements, including principal and interest</li><li>Monthly payment confirmations</li><li>SBA loan applications and approvals, if any</li></ul>In the event of an <a href="https://1800accountant.com/blog/how-to-file-amended-business-tax-returns">IRS audit</a>, your business can provide loan records and related documents to prove a debtor-creditor relationship. <a href="https://1800accountant.com/services/audit-defense">1-800Accountant offers audit defense services</a> so you can feel confident in your business tax return documentation.<h2>Making the Most of Small Business Loan Interest Deductions</h2>Business owners can <a href="https://1800accountant.com/blog/maximize-small-business-tax-deductions">maximize the tax efficiency</a> of their business loans using the following strategies.<ul><li>Consider loan timing: Time your financing for optimal interest expense deductions. For example, if your business expects higher taxable income in future years, consider finalizing loan documents late in the current tax year.</li><li>Make elections: Real estate businesses can elect out of Section 163(j) limitations. Specific rules require longer depreciation cycles for electing businesses.</li><li>Maximize deductions: Review origination fees and loan costs to maximize amortization expense deductions.</li><li>Strategize cash sources: Use equipment financing to improve cash flow for large purchases while allowing depreciation and interest expense deductions.</li></ul>As always, we recommend <a href="https://1800accountant.com/services/business-tax-advisory">consulting tax professionals for specialized recommendations</a>. Small business accounting experts can help your business achieve tax efficiencies while optimizing financial health.<h2>Unlocking Tax Efficiency with 1-800Accountant</h2>Business loan tax rules can feel confusing. Even if you’ve handled taxes before, some questions need expert advice.Some deductions, such as business loan interest, require extra attention. Your business may qualify to deduct certain expenses. However, rules can vary depending on your industry, loan structure, or income level.For example, you may need to:<ul><li>Apply interest deduction limits if your revenue exceeds $30 million.</li></ul><ul><li>Calculate loan fee amortization over several years.</li></ul><ul><li>Separately track personal and business interest expense.</li></ul><ul><li>Choose the right time to finance or refinance.</li></ul>You don’t have to figure this out alone. <a href="https://1800accountant.com/services/small-business-taxes">1-800Accountant can help your business consider tax-efficient financing and accurately report your loans</a>.Our team of experienced CPAs works with small businesses every day. 1-800Accountant helps business owners comply with tax laws while saving on professional fees.<h3>How 1-800Accountant Can Guide Your Journey</h3>From customized tax preparation to real-time accounting support, 1-800Accountant’s services help small businesses maximize every financial move. Our platform combines the convenience of modern tools with the insights of seasoned professionals who know how to translate tax law into practical advice.<a href="https://1800accountant.com/services/small-business-taxes">1-800Accountant offers tax prep, accounting</a>, and <a href="https://1800accountant.com/services/business-tax-advisory">year-round support</a>. 1-800Accountant experts work with businesses yea-round to proactively manage financial decisions and tax strategies.You’ll have access to licensed CPAs who can answer your questions, catch red flags, and help you avoid surprises. So you can confidently move forward and stay focused on running your business.Whether you’re just getting started or you’ve been in business for years, 1-800Accountant can help. <a href="https://1800accountant.com/services/small-business-taxes">Schedule a free consultation with 1-800Accountant’s team of experts</a>.

Small business owners can finance large purchases or generate quick cash by taking out business loans. Small business loans offer opportunities for growth and improving cash flow. Your business must repay the loan funds, and you may wonder: Are business loans tax-deductible?

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Are Business Loans Tax Deductible? Maximize Benefits

Whether you operate a physical store or engage in multistate e-commerce activities, it's important to understand your sales tax obligations. Optimally, you'll acquaint yourself with sales tax rules and laws impacting your business before launch to ensure you avoid compliance issues.

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How to Pay Sales Tax for Small Business: A Guide

<a href="https://1800accountant.com/blog/accountant-help-small-business-growth">It's not uncommon for solopreneurs, gig workers, and small business owners</a> to use their personal cell phones for business functions. Smartphones can handle client communications, email, scheduling, and bookkeeping, among other essential tasks, all in the palm of their hands.If you've been using your phone for business purposes, you're probably wondering: What can I legally claim on my taxes if I use my personal phone for work? As long as you meet IRS criteria and maintain supporting documentation, you can deduct the portion of your smartphone costs associated with business use. But how?By following this essential guide, you can keep more of your hard-earned money while ensuring peace of mind. It breaks down exactly what you can claim, <a href="https://1800accountant.com/blog/quarterly-estimated-taxes">how to calculate your deductions</a>, and how to remain IRS-compliant as you build your business.&nbsp;<h2>Who Can Claim Personal Phone Usage, and What Can You Deduct?</h2>Not everyone who works is eligible to deduct cellphone expenses from their cellphone bill, but if you're self-employed or run a small business then chances are you qualify. You may be able to deduct both direct and indirect cellphone expenses as long as you can demonstrate business use.<h3>Figuring Out What’s for Work</h3>To claim a deduction, you must determine how much of your cellphone usage is work-related versus personal use. Business calls, texts, emails, apps (like Slack or Zoom), and data used to run your company all count as business use.&nbsp;Tracking your business usage with a log or digital tool is essential to determining the amount you can deduct. If you find that you use your phone 60% of the time for business, you can claim 60% of your phone expenses.<h3>Are You an Employee or Self-Employed?</h3>You can deduct eligible phone costs on your <a href="https://1800accountant.com/blog/self-employment-tax-2">Schedule C (Form 1040), Profit or Loss from Business (Sole Proprietorship) if you're self-employed</a> or run a small business LLC. However, this is not an option if you're a W-2 employee. Since the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA), employees can no longer deduct unreimbursed job expenses—including cellphone costs—from their federal taxes.While employees can no longer deduct cell phone reimbursements, they can still accept them. If your employer reimburses part of your phone bill, make sure it’s properly accounted for to avoid duplicate claims or flags that may invite unwanted attention from the IRS..<h2>What Can You Deduct?</h2>Now that you've established your eligibility, it's time to identify specific expenses that you can deduct on your tax return.&nbsp;<h3>What’s a Direct Expense?</h3>These are costs tied directly to your monthly cell phone use for business, including:<ul><li>Service charges</li><li>Data plans</li><li>Business-only app subscriptions</li><li>International calling fees for client work</li></ul>Remember—you can only deduct the portion of your phone used for business reasons. For example, if your bill is $100/month and you use it 70% for business, you can deduct $70 from your monthly bill.<h3>Phones and Fixes</h3>If you upgraded to a new smartphone this year or plan to, you may be able to deduct part of the cost or depreciate it over several years. The IRS lets you recover the cost of business assets through depreciation if the asset has more than one year of useful life.&nbsp;If you have yet to upgrade, but have repair costs associated with common issues like a cracked screen or battery replacement, and the phone is partially used for business, a portion of the repair cost is deductible, too. You can avoid or reduce smartphone damage via a screen protector or phone case, <a href="https://www.thestreet.com/taxes/can-cellphone-expenses-be-tax-deductible-with-a-business" target="_blank">which are also tax-deductible</a>.<h2>How to Calculate and Keep Track of Deductions</h2>Calculating each deduction is one of the more time-consuming and challenging aspects of reducing your tax liability. <a href="https://1800accountant.com/blog/maximize-small-business-tax-deductions">Follow this guide to maximize your tax savings</a>.&nbsp;<h3>How Much is for Business?</h3>Use your phone's screen time feature or a usage log to determine how much of your activity is business-related. You can also analyze your mobile phone bill and highlight business numbers from personal calls.We recommend retaining documentation for at least three months to establish a reliable pattern of business use.<h3>Different Ways to Calculate</h3><a href="https://1800accountant.com/blog/small-business-tax-deductions-checklist">There are two main ways to calculate deductions</a> related to business use:<ul><li>Actual Expense Method: Track the exact portion of your phone bill and phone costs related to business use.</li><li>Simplified Method: Estimate business use as a percentage and apply it to your total phone costs. This works best for solopreneurs with consistent usage patterns.</li></ul>If you need help with calculations or determining the optimal method,<a href="https://1800accountant.com/services/small-business-taxes"> 1-800Accountant</a> is ready to assist. Let our experts ensure your deductions are accurate, optimized, and claimed by the appropriate deadline.&nbsp;<h3>Keeping Everything in Order</h3>Good recordkeeping supports your deductions, ensures a smooth tax preparation process, <a href="https://1800accountant.com/blog/audit-without-receipts">and aids in audit defense should you receive a notice</a>. Records you should consider retaining include:&nbsp;<ul><li>Monthly phone bills</li><li>Notes differentiating between business and personal usage</li><li>Receipts for phone purchases and repairs</li><li>Any reimbursement documentation</li></ul>A digital expense tracker or app can streamline this process.<a href="https://1800accountant.com/services/small-business-taxes"> 1-800Accountant’s tech tools</a> and mobile application let you upload receipts and link accounts effortlessly.<h3>Following IRS Rules</h3>Make sure your documentation aligns with IRS expectations for business owners in your state and industry while avoiding common pitfalls like claiming 100% of your bill when you use your phone for personal calls. And don’t forget to properly implement depreciation if you’re deducting part of the phone’s cost.<h2>Real-Life Scenarios and Tax Tips</h2>Refer to the deduction example below that best fits your business classification. Sometimes, the best way to understand deductions is to consider a real-world scenario.<h3>Business Owner Example</h3>Olivia runs a graphic design business. She uses her personal phone for project discussions, client calls, and social media marketing—about 75% of her total usage. Her bill is $120/month.In this scenario, Olivia would <a href="https://turbotax.intuit.com/tax-tips/small-business-taxes/can-cellphone-expenses-be-tax-deductible-with-a-business/L6NQvycMO" target="_blank">determine that $90 of her $120 monthly bill qualifies as a business expense</a>. She then deducts $90/month × 12 = $1,080/year in business expenses.<h3>Consultant Example</h3>Raj is a self-employed consultant who bought a new phone for $1,200, estimating 60% business use. He can depreciate $720 over three years, claiming $240 yearly, plus 60% of his $80/month cell phone plan.&nbsp;<h3>Gig Worker Example</h3><a href="https://1800accountant.com/blog/doordash-tax-deductions">Sam drives for a delivery service and uses his mobile device for navigation</a>, orders, and customer communication. He logs 85% of business use and deducts that portion of his phone expenses using the simplified method.&nbsp;<h3>Employee with Partial Reimbursement</h3>Michelle works remotely and receives a $40/month stipend from her employer to cover work-related phone use employee expenses. Her total bill is $100 per month, and she uses her own device for work 60% of the time. Since she's reimbursed and a W-2 employee, she can't claim additional deductions, but she must account for the reimbursement when reporting her income if it's not classified as a tax-free fringe benefit.<h2>Planning for the Long Haul</h2>Think ahead beyond the current tax season. Tracking and deducting cellphone expenses can be part of a larger, long-term tax strategy—especially if you're scaling your business.Combine your cellphone deductions with other common write-offs (like home office, software, and internet) to reduce your taxable income over time.<a href="https://1800accountant.com/blog/small-business-tax-deductions-checklist"> To get started, browse our small business tax deductions</a> list for ideas and inspiration.<h2>Using Tech to Make Taxes Easier</h2>Incorporating digital tools and technology into your tax planning processes minimizes errors and headaches while saving time during the tax year.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h3>Tech Tools for Tracking Expenses</h3>1-800Accountant's mobile application for major smartphone platforms, Expensify, TurboTax, and QuickBooks, helps you securely track and categorize expenses, scan receipts, and store documentation—all from your phone.<h3>Syncing with Your Accounting Software</h3>Automating the sync between your bank account and bookkeeping software ensures no expense is missed.<a href="https://1800accountant.com/services/bookkeeping"> With 1-800Accountant’s full-service bookkeeping solution</a> for small businesses, you can integrate your data, save time, and prepare for tax season with the peace of mind knowing your financial data is current and error-free.<h2>Handling Tricky Tax Situations From Personal Phone Usage</h2>While addressing common business use scenarios with your personal phone is relatively straightforward with a bit of practice, overcoming edge cases requires more insight and expertise.<h3>Dealing with Different States</h3>Do you travel for work or operate in multiple states? State-specific rules may impact your phone deductions and will likely complicate your tax preparation and filing processes. Keeping a mileage and travel log alongside your phone usage can support more nuanced deductions that apply to multistate operations.<h3>Industry-Specific Tax Issues</h3>Your phone may be a vital business tool if you're in real estate, consulting, construction, or a high-communication field. If appropriately documented, some industries can claim higher percentages of business use.<a href="https://1800accountant.com/services/business-tax-advisory">1-800Accountant’s tax experts</a> can tailor advice to your industry, ensuring you never leave money on the table.<h2>Maximize Your Savings with 1-800Accountant</h2><a href="https://www.hrblock.com/tax-center/filing/adjustments-and-deductions/cell-phone-tax-deduction-requirements/" target="_blank">Solopreneurs, gig workers, independent contractors, and small business owners</a> must make every effort to reduce their taxable income throughout the year. As this article demonstrates, your personal phone can be a valuable business deduction—if you know how to strategically claim eligible deductions. From calculating the right percentage to storing proper documentation, correctly executing each step is essential and helps ensure compliance.Navigating the right deductions for your business operations can be challenging without critical guidance from<a href="https://1800accountant.com/support/contact-us"> 1-800Accountant</a>, America's leading virtual accounting firm. Our CPAs and tax experts understand the nuances of your business cellphone deductions, depreciation, and industry-specific rules, giving you peace of mind and the freedom to focus on your next business milestone.<a href="https://1800accountant.com/support/contact-us">Schedule a call today</a> to maximize your deductions and streamline your tax process, so you can keep more of what you earn.

As long as you meet IRS criteria and maintain supporting documentation, you can deduct the portion of your smartphone costs associated with business use. But how? By following this essential guide, you can keep more of your hard-earned money while ensuring peace of mind.

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If I Use My Personal Phone for Work, What Can I Claim?

The California sales tax system has city, county, and state components that make it incredibly complex, which further emphasizes the need for businesses to grasp applicable sales tax responsibilities. Businesses that operate throughout the state will encounter varying rates, which range from 7.25% to 11.25%, due to the addition of local district taxes.

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Sales Tax in California: Essential Guide for Businesses

Creating a tax strategy that will help achieve your short-term and long-term business goals is essential. Your tax strategy should aim to reduce your business's annual federal and state tax liability efficiently. Tax planning should save time and resources, but it’s generally not just one activity—it can be a combination of different supporting tactics that <a href="https://1800accountant.com/blog/small-business-tax-strategies-to-save-money">will ultimately help you save money</a>.<a href="https://1800accountant.com/blog/tax-strategies-for-startups">Whether you operate as a startup</a>, a sole proprietorship, a partnership, a limited liability company (LLC), an S corporation, or a C corporation, you want to reduce the taxes you owe while ensuring you fulfill your compliance and tax obligations. Use this guide to learn about the seven business tax strategies you should consider that will help you save more money, along with helpful answers to some of small business owners' most frequently asked tax planning questions.&nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>Top 7 Small Business Tax Planning Strategies for Tax Savings</h2><h3>1. Claim your deductions</h3>Use tax deductions to reduce your taxable income. The business taxes you pay will be based on your lowered income amount. Consider taking the following tax deductions to <a href="https://www.forbes.com/councils/forbesfinancecouncil/2025/03/17/the-power-of-strategic-tax-planning-in-driving-business-profitability/" target="_blank">support your small business tax planning strategy</a>.&nbsp;<ul><li>Home Office Deduction. If you’re a homeowner and have a regular and established workplace in your home, the associated costs can be deducted from your taxes.</li><li>Charitable Contributions. Lowering your adjusted gross income (AGI) is a popular strategy for small business tax planning. An easy way to do this is by donating to a charity. Many charities will provide a year-end statement to their regular donors, but keeping track of your giving through itemized deductions is essential.</li><li>Qualified Business Income (QBI) Deduction. The QBI deduction allows a small business owners who operate as a pass-through entity business structure to deduct up to 20% of net business income. This deduction is written into the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) and may expire if not renewed.&nbsp;</li></ul>A tax advisor can help determine your business expense’s eligibility and offer tactics to write off startup costs and half of your 15.3% self-employment tax while managing end-of-the-year federal tax considerations. Learn more in our blog,<a href="https://1800accountant.com/blog/maximize-small-business-tax-deductions"> 7 Tips to Maximize Deductions and Credits in 2024</a>.&nbsp;<h3>2. Use your tax credits</h3><a href="https://1800accountant.com/blog/business-taxes">A tax credit will either reduce the amount of taxes you owe</a> or increase your tax refund from your tax return. Consider taking the following tax credits to support your small business tax planning strategy, and learn more about additional tax credits your business may be eligible for in the blog above.<ul><li>Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC). This is one of the better-known tax credits that can apply to individuals with low or moderate incomes.</li><li>Small Business Health Insurance Premiums. Small business owners with fewer than 25 employees who pay at least 50% of employee premium costs qualify for this credit.</li><li>Work Opportunity Credit. If you employ individuals from qualifying groups who have faced significant barriers to employment, you may be eligible for this work opportunity credit.</li></ul><h3>3. Consider your entity structure</h3><a href="https://1800accountant.com/blog/entity-right-business">A foundational element of business tax planning is verifying your business entity structure</a>.Businesses come in all shapes and sizes, offering different benefits and disadvantages. An LLC provides more flexibility in its operations, with personal asset protection and pass-through taxation as popular features. When a business entity, including a sole proprietor running a sole proprietorship, a partnership, and an S corporation, features pass-through taxation, income is not taxed at the level of the business or corporation. Instead, it is passed through to be taxed at each owner's individual taxpayer level.Although your business is already registered as one entity type, a change may be worth considering. For example, once you form an LLC, you have 75 days to select a different business structure for your new company, such as a C corporation.<a href="https://1800accountant.com/blog/converting-llc-to-c-corp">Learn about the three tax consequences you should consider in our blog</a> if you are thinking about converting from an LLC to a C Corp this tax season or next year.&nbsp;<h3>4. Defer or accelerate income</h3>Deferring your small business income and accelerating deductions is an excellent tax planning tax-saving strategy. When you defer your business income, shifting it from one tax year to the next, you can potentially lower your tax bracket and overall tax liability. This shift to a lower tax bracket may qualify you for deductions unavailable to businesses in higher brackets.The tax deductions your business qualifies for will lower your tax liability further, minimizing the amount you will pay to the IRS and accelerating your income.<h3>5. Set up retirement plans</h3>Even if it seems like a long way off, saving now will help you build a nest egg that ensures a comfortable retirement. As you consider a retirement plan, keep your employees in mind, as retirement contributions are a benefit and a means to retain talent.Consider offering your employees a retirement plan, which can provide additional tax benefits by lowering your taxable income. Small business owners can offer a 401(k) plan or a simplified employee pension (SEP) plan. It’s important to note that your employees are not required to contribute to a retirement plan. They may instead choose to save for retirement through a Roth IRA, which cannot be deducted from their taxes.Saving for retirement is another excellent tax planning tactic for small businesses. It can help them save money and better understand their tax bills.<h3>6. Offer employee benefits</h3>Aside from increased wages, the best employees gravitate to employers offering great benefits and other incentives. These can be healthcare-related benefits such as:<ul><li>Health insurance</li><li>Dental insurance</li><li>Reimbursement (transportation, tuition, or federal student loan payments)</li></ul>While no new laws governing employee benefits have passed recently, state and federal discussions about healthcare, telehealth, and expanded family leave exist. While businesses throughout America monitor legislative development impacting employee benefits, many employers are embracing quality of life and financial wellness benefits in the current year.&nbsp;<h3>7. Sell a losing investment</h3>“When life hands you lemons, make lemonade.” Addressing a poor investment and bad debts may be challenging, but it can be used to your advantage for business purposes when planning your tax strategy and navigating tax laws. If you decide to sell a losing investment, you can categorize this as negative income or a capital loss. This tactic can lower your income and reduce your tax burden.<a href="https://1800accountant.com/blog/filing-taxes-for-small-business-with-no-income">The maximum amount for a capital loss in 2025 is $3,000</a>. Any amount over that can be applied to the following year.<h2>Tax Planning FAQ for Small Business Owners</h2>Do I need to hire a small business tax planner? You can attempt to plan your tax strategy yourself,&nbsp; but you might not get consistently great results as you would working with a tax planning professional. <a href="https://1800accountant.com/blog/cost-of-tax-preparation-by-cpa-for-small-business">Partnering with a certified public accountant (CPA)</a> ensures you get quality service from a qualified expert committed to maximizing your business's tax savings.What are the disadvantages of tax planning? The main drawback of tax planning is the time and effort needed to optimize your savings. You may need to change your business operations as you implement these strategies. Small business tax planning doesn’t guarantee huge savings, and some business owners may want to focus on other aspects of their operations.How much does tax planning cost? <a href="https://1800accountant.com/blog/how-much-does-a-small-business-pay-in-taxes">The cost of tax planning services varies</a> based on your business’s intricacies, such as the number of employees or the range of deductions that may be involved.<a href="https://1800accountant.com/pricing"> Browse our standard packages and pricing here</a>, and contact us if you require a package customized to address your unique business needs.Are there any tax planning scams to be aware of? Most tax advice focuses on deductions and ways to save money, but it’s also important to be aware of the various tax scams that may impact your business. Scammers are devoted to deceiving taxpayers, often by impersonating the IRS and demanding immediate payment. The IRS will never call, text, or email an individual and request payment or personal information. When in doubt, contacting the IRS directly through their website is best to verify the legitimate notifications you receive.<h2>Maximize Your Savings and Business Profitability with Expert Tax Strategy</h2>An expert tax strategy has numerous benefits, which include boosting business profitability beyond valuable deductions and credits. If handling your small business tax planning has distracted you from your core business operations, the tax professionals at 1-800Accountant, America's leading virtual accounting firm, can help.Save time and achieve your annual financial goals with our suite of affordable, tax-deductible financial services. Schedule a quick consultation–usually 30 minutes or less—to learn how<a href="https://1800accountant.com/services/bookkeeping"> bookkeeping</a>,<a href="https://1800accountant.com/services/business-tax-advisory"> tax advisory</a>, and<a href="https://1800accountant.com/services/income-taxes"> personal income tax preparation and tax filing</a> will help you maintain full IRS compliance with maximum tax savings.

Your tax strategy should aim to reduce your business's annual federal and state tax liability efficiently. Tax planning should save time and resources, but it’s generally not just one activity—it can be a combination of different supporting tactics that will ultimately help you save money.

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Business Tax Planning Guide: 7 Strategies That Can Help You Save More

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