File Business Taxes Online with E-Filing and Forms

Overhead Shot of an Income Tax Return Form
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Filing business taxes online is a convenient and efficient way to handle your tax obligations. You can e-file your taxes using tax software or through the IRS website.

The IRS offers several e-filing options, including the Free File program, which provides free tax preparation and e-filing for eligible taxpayers. This program is available to individuals and businesses with incomes below $69,000.

E-filing is also faster than paper filing, with most returns being processed within 24 hours. This means you'll get your refund sooner, which can be a big advantage for businesses with cash flow constraints.

To e-file your business taxes, you'll need to gather all necessary tax forms and schedules, including the 1120 form for corporations and the 1040 form for partnerships and S corporations.

Filing Requirements

You'll need to file various taxes and forms as a small business owner, and there are electronic filing options available for many of them. Electronic filing can save you time and reduce errors.

Excise and employment taxes are two types of taxes that small businesses are required to file. Forms 1120, 7004, 1041, and various information returns are also part of the filing requirements.

Self-Employment

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If you're self-employed, you'll need to pay self-employment tax, which contributes to your coverage under the Social Security system. This tax provides you with retirement benefits, disability benefits, survivor benefits, and hospital insurance (Medicare) benefits.

You'll need to file Schedule SE (Form 1040 or 1040-SR) if your net earnings from self-employment were $400 or more. This applies to most self-employed individuals, but there are some exceptions, such as aliens, fishing crew members, and notary public.

To calculate your self-employment tax, you'll need to estimate your net earnings from self-employment. You can use a tax calculator to help with this, or you can do it manually by subtracting your expenses from your business earnings.

If you use a Form 1120 to report your business earnings, you'll need to calculate your taxable business income separately from your personal income tax return. This can be more complicated than using Schedule C, which is a simple two-page form.

Here are the key points to remember about self-employment tax:

  • You must pay self-employment tax if your net earnings from self-employment were $400 or more.
  • You'll need to file Schedule SE (Form 1040 or 1040-SR) with your tax return.
  • Self-employment tax contributes to your coverage under the Social Security system.

Sales and Use

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If you're registered for sales tax in a state, you can register a new sales, consumer's use, or vendor's use location through a specific link, which is provided with instructions.

To add a new location if you're only registered for consumer's use tax, you'll need to use a different link, also with instructions.

You can also add a new vendor's use tax location if you're only registered for vendor's use tax in the state, using yet another link with instructions.

If you have a balance due from a monthly, quarterly, or annual Sales Tax Return, you can file and pay it using a specific option, which doesn't constitute filing a return.

You can now upload your sales return as an Excel spreadsheet without entering each line of data, using the provided links to access this feature.

To pay the balance due from a monthly, quarterly, or annual Vendor's Use Tax Return, you can use a specific option, which also doesn't constitute filing a return.

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Similarly, to pay the balance due from a monthly, quarterly, or annual Consumer's Use Tax Return, you can use another option, which again doesn't constitute filing a return.

You can also download a text file that includes a listing of your Sales or Use tax locations for filing with a third-party system.

If you're a Quarter-Monthly Sales Tax filer, electronic payments are required, and you can find more information and due dates for Sales Tax by clicking on a specific link.

If you've received a Sales Tax notice and need to pay a balance due, you can select the Sales Billing Notice option.

Here are the options for filing and paying Sales and Use Taxes:

E-Filing and Forms

Electronic filing options are available for many taxes and forms that small businesses are required to file, such as excise and employment taxes, Forms 1120, 7004, 1041, and various information returns.

You can e-file Forms 940, 941, 943, 944, or 945 for small businesses to make the process easier and faster.

To determine the correct IRS tax form, you need to report your business earnings to the IRS and pay tax on them, but choosing the right form depends on how you operate your business.

E-File Tax Forms 940-945

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Electronic filing is a convenient option for small businesses, and it's available for many taxes and forms. You can e-file excise and employment taxes, as well as Forms 1120, 7004, and 1041.

For specific tax forms, you can e-file Forms 940, 941, 943, 944, or 945. These forms are commonly used by small businesses, and e-filing them can save time and reduce errors.

Step 2—Find the Right Form

Choosing the right tax form for your business can be overwhelming, but it's a crucial step in preparing your taxes.

You'll need to report your business earnings to the IRS and pay tax on them, and the correct form to use depends on how you operate your business.

Many small business owners use a sole proprietorship, which allows them to report all of their business income and expenses on a Schedule C attachment to their personal income tax return.

If you're a sole proprietor or independent contractor, TurboTax Home & Business will guide you through the process and fill in the right forms for you.

If your business is organized as a corporation or you elect to treat your LLC as one, you'll need to prepare a separate corporate tax return using Form 1120 for C-Corporations or Form 1120S for S-Corporations.

Multi-member LLCs are considered partnerships and typically file Form 1065.

Income

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Income is a crucial aspect of e-filing and forms. You can file your business income tax through automated or bulk filing, which requires enrollment in the Modernized e-File (MeF) system.

To file your business income tax using automated or bulk filing, you'll need to enroll in the MeF system. This allows you to file and pay your taxes electronically, making the process faster and more efficient.

You also have the option to use third-party tax-prep software for business income tax. This can be a convenient way to prepare and submit your tax forms.

If you prefer not to use electronic filing, you can still file on paper. However, keep in mind that this method may take longer and is less efficient than e-filing.

Payment and Deadlines

Pay attention to deadlines, as they can be quite different depending on your business structure. If you're a sole proprietor, your Schedule C becomes part of your Form 1040, so you'll need to file by April 15.

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If you're taxed as a C-Corp, you'll need to file a Form 1120 by the 15th day of the fourth month following the close of the tax year. For most taxpayers, that's April 15 or the next business day if it falls on a weekend or holiday.

You'll need to file a Form 1120S or Form 1065 if you're taxed as an S-Corp or as a partnership, and those forms are due by the 15th day of the third month following the close of the tax year, which is usually March 15.

Filing Past Due Taxes

Filing past due tax returns can be a daunting task, but it's essential to consider the consequences of not doing so.

Before you decide not to file your tax return on time or not pay all of your taxes when they are due, consider this.

The IRS will assess penalties and interest on the amount you owe, which can add up quickly.

Pay Attention to Deadlines

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You need to be aware of different filing deadlines, and it's generally subject to the same April 15 deadline when you use a Schedule C, which becomes part of your Form 1040.

If you're taxed as a C-Corp, you must file a Form 1120 by the 15th day of the fourth month following the close of the tax year, which is usually April 15 or the next business day if it falls on a weekend or holiday.

You can't send your Form 1120S or Form 1065, which are due by the 15th day of the third month following the close of the tax year, with your personal income tax return if you're taxed as an S-Corp or as a partnership.

Pay as Guest

If you're not a registered MyTax Missouri user, you can file and pay business taxes online using a credit card or E-Check. This system is available to all business accounts registered with the department and doesn’t require a separate registration.

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You'll need to provide your contact information once by signing up for a MyTax Missouri account, but this is a one-time process. To register, proceed to Register for MyTax Missouri.

Additional charges or convenience fees may apply when paying online, so be aware of these extra costs.

You can find additional technical notes on the topic by checking the relevant resources.

Online Software Products

If you're looking to file business taxes online, TurboTax offers a variety of software products to suit your needs.

TurboTax Live Full Service Pricing provides a comprehensive solution for business taxes, which can be a lifesaver for entrepreneurs who are short on time.

You can also use TurboTax Live Assisted Business Taxes for a more hands-on approach, where a tax expert will guide you through the process.

TurboTax Small Business Taxes offers a range of features to help you manage your business finances, including accounting software.

TurboTax Verified Tax Pros can connect you with a local tax professional who can provide expert advice and support.

TurboTax Desktop login allows you to access your TurboTax account from your computer, making it easy to work on your business taxes from anywhere.

TurboTax also offers professional accounting software for more complex business needs.

Employer and Corporate

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If you're a business owner, you'll need to navigate the world of corporate taxes. You can pay your Corporate Estimated Tax payment through the online payment system, which will also file form MO-1120ES for you.

To make a payment, you'll select one of three options: pay the amount due on Form MO-1120 or MO-1120S, make a Corporate Extension Payment, or pay a balance due on a Corporate Tax notice.

You'll also need to register for a MyTax Missouri account if you want to file an extension, as this will allow you to make Corporate Extension Payments.

Here are the payment options in a quick rundown:

  • Paying Corporate Estimated Tax payment through the online system (filing form MO-1120ES)
  • Paying the amount due on Form MO-1120 or MO-1120S
  • Making Corporate Extension Payments (with Form MO-7004 submission)
  • Paying a balance due on a Corporate Tax notice (Corporate Billing Notice)

Employer Identification Number

An Employer Identification Number (EIN), also known as a federal tax identification number, is used to identify tax reports to the IRS.

Having an EIN is a crucial step for businesses to file taxes correctly and avoid any potential penalties.

An EIN is a unique nine-digit number assigned to your business, making it easy for the IRS to track your tax reports.

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This number is required for businesses to open a bank account, obtain a business loan, and even hire employees.

Businesses can apply for an EIN online through the IRS website, and it's usually processed within a few minutes.

Your EIN is usually mailed to you within a week after applying, but you can also print or save it immediately after applying online.

Corporate

As a business owner, you need to stay on top of corporate tax payments to avoid penalties and fines. You can make Corporate Estimated Tax payments through the online payment system, which also files form MO-1120ES.

To pay the amount due on Form MO-1120 or MO-1120S, select the option to pay the amount due. If you need to file an extension, you'll also need to submit Form MO-7004 to the Department.

If you've received a Corporate Tax notice and need to pay a balance due, select the Corporate Billing Notice option. You can also use this option to make Corporate Extension Payments.

Employer Withholding

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To file your Employer Withholding, you'll need to use the online payment system to pay your Monthly, Quarterly, or Annual Withholding Tax return through the link provided by the state. This will also serve as your Withholding return (Form MO-941) for the period.

If you make your Quarter-Monthly (Weekly) Withholding Tax payment through the online payment system, you can also file your Monthly Reconciliation through the same link by choosing “File My 941 Quarterly-Monthly Payments Reconciliation” after you have set up all Quarter-Monthly payments for the month.

To pay Quarter-Monthly (Weekly) Withholding Tax, you'll need to make electronic payments, as they are required for Quarter-Monthly Withholding Tax filers. You can find more information on electronic payment requirements and due dates for Withholding Tax on the provided link.

If you've received a Withholding Tax notice and need to pay a balance due, you should select the Withholding Billing Notice option to proceed with payment.

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Here are the options for filing and paying Withholding Tax:

Key Takeaways

You can file your small business taxes using various methods, depending on whether you're a sole proprietor or have a legal entity like an LLC or corporation.

There are different tax forms for different types of business entities, so you'll need to choose the right one for your business.

Calculating your taxable business income is similar regardless of the form you use.

TurboTax offers two products for business owners: TurboTax Home & Business for sole proprietors and 1099 contractors, and TurboTax Business for corporations, partnerships, and LLCs.

Form Filling and Submission

To fill out your tax form, you'll need to determine which one is right for your business. Many small business owners use a Schedule C attachment to their personal income tax return, but corporations and multi-member LLCs need to file separate forms like Form 1120 or 1065.

You can find a copy of Schedule C on the IRS website or use TurboTax to generate it for you after inputting your financial information. The form is relatively simple, with just two pages to fill out, and helps you calculate your net profit or loss by subtracting expenses from business earnings.

With TurboTax Live Business, you can get unlimited expert help or let a tax expert file your taxes completely for you, ensuring you get every credit and deduction possible.

Step 1: Collect Records

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Collecting your records is the first step in filling out tax forms. Gather all your business records that report your business earnings and expenses.

Having a computer program or spreadsheet to organize transactions can make calculating income and deductions easier. This is especially helpful if you use programs like QuickBooks or Quicken, which can be imported directly into your tax return.

You should have all your records in front of you before filling out any tax forms. This will save you time and effort in the long run.

Fill Out Your Form

Fill out your form, and you're one step closer to submitting your taxes. Schedule C is a simple form for business taxes, just two pages long.

To get started, you can search the IRS website for a copy or use TurboTax to generate the form after inputting your financial information. Schedule C is a straightforward way to report business earnings, with expenses subtracted from business earnings to arrive at net profit or loss.

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You then transfer this amount to your personal income tax form and include it with other personal income tax items. However, if you use a Form 1120, you'll need to provide more details, which may not be necessary for small businesses.

With TurboTax Live Business, you can get unlimited expert help while doing your taxes, or let a tax expert file completely for you, start to finish.

Illinois Specific

In Illinois, you'll need to file your business taxes by the 15th day of the fourth month after your tax year ends. For example, if your tax year ends on December 31, you'll need to file by April 15.

If you're a sole proprietor or single-member LLC, you'll report your business income and expenses on Schedule C, which you'll attach to your personal tax return. This is because your business and personal income are combined for tax purposes.

The Illinois Department of Revenue requires businesses to file Form IL-1040, which is an Illinois income tax return. However, if you're a corporation or partnership, you'll file a separate business tax return with the state.

Using My Illinois

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Using MyTax Illinois is a great way to manage your Illinois taxes. You can register a new business, electronically file tax returns, make payments, and manage your tax accounts all in one place.

If you're a business owner, you should know that you can file and pay use tax using MyTax Illinois, but only if you're not required to register for sales and use taxes. This is because businesses that are registered to file Form ST-1 should report any use tax liability on that form instead.

Most business tax forms can be filed using MyTax Illinois, except for Business Income Tax returns, which can't be filed or amended through this system.

Sales & Use

If you're registered for sales tax in Illinois, you can register a new sales, consumer's use, or vendor's use location online. This will help you keep track of your various locations and ensure you're meeting your tax obligations.

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To add a new location, you'll need to select the appropriate option based on your registration status. If you're only registered for consumer's use tax, you'll need to use a different link than if you're registered for sales tax.

You can now upload your sales return as an Excel spreadsheet, which can save you time and effort. To access this feature, simply click on the relevant link and follow the instructions.

If you need to pay a balance due from a monthly, quarterly, or annual Sales Tax Return, you can do so online. This payment does not constitute filing of a return, so be sure to file your return separately.

To download a text file that includes a listing of your Sales or Use tax locations, select the appropriate option. This can be helpful if you need to file with a third-party system.

Here are the options for paying a balance due:

  • Sales Tax Return:
  • Monthly
  • Quarterly
  • Annual
  • Consumer's Use Tax Return:
  • Monthly
  • Quarterly
  • Annual
  • Vendor's Use Tax Return:
  • Monthly
  • Quarterly
  • Annual

Note that electronic payments are required for Quarter-Monthly Sales Tax filers. Be sure to check the due dates and payment information for Sales Tax if you're a Quarter-Monthly filer.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I file taxes if I started a business?

To file taxes for your business, use Schedule C (Form 1040) to report income or loss from your sole proprietorship or gig work. This form helps you accurately report your business income and expenses to the IRS.

Do I file LLC and personal taxes together?

Yes, as an LLC owner, you typically file your business tax information with your personal tax returns on Schedule C, combined with your other income on Form 1040. This is because the IRS considers the LLC entity to be non-separate from the owner for tax purposes.

How much money does your business need to make to file taxes?

To file taxes, your business must earn at least $400 in net earnings from self-employment income. This triggers the need to report self-employment tax on Schedule SE with your Form 1040.

How much does it cost to file taxes for a small business?

The cost to file taxes for a small business is typically between $220 and $800, depending on the complexity of your business records and bookkeeping. Accurate and organized records can help keep costs lower, so it's worth investing time in getting your finances in order.

Timothy Gutkowski-Stoltenberg

Senior Writer

Timothy Gutkowski-Stoltenberg is a seasoned writer with a passion for crafting engaging content. With a keen eye for detail and a knack for storytelling, he has established himself as a versatile and reliable voice in the industry. His writing portfolio showcases a breadth of expertise, with a particular focus on the freight market trends.

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