File Business Taxes Online LLC and Understand Your Options

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Filing business taxes online as an LLC can be a straightforward process if you know what to expect. You can file your business taxes online through the IRS website, which accepts most tax forms, including the 1065 partnership return and the 1120 corporate tax return.

The IRS website is a convenient option for business owners who prefer to handle their taxes independently. You can also hire a tax professional or accountant to help with the process, especially if you're new to filing business taxes or have complex financial situations.

As an LLC, you'll need to file your business taxes annually, typically by the 15th day of the 4th month after the end of your tax year. This deadline applies to most business types, including single-member and multi-member LLCs.

Electronic Filing

Electronic filing is a convenient and efficient way to handle business taxes. You can file many of the taxes and forms required for small businesses electronically.

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For instance, Arizona provides a website called AZTaxes.gov that allows business taxpayers to file and pay state taxes online without needing a paid third-party vendor.

The state of Arizona allows taxpayers to electronically file and pay their transaction privilege tax returns using approved tax preparation software. There are two options to file: through the software products or tax professionals approved for this program, or by uploading a file created by the approved tax preparation software on AZTaxes.gov.

To file electronically, you'll need to be enrolled on AZTaxes.gov and have your TPT license linked to your AZTaxes account. If you applied for a license through B1S or AZTaxes.gov, this is taken care of and linking is not necessary.

Here are some options for e-filing forms 940, 941, 943, 944 or 945 for small businesses: E-file Forms 940, 941, 943, 944 or 945 for small businesses.Learn your options for e-filing form 940, 941 943, 944 or 945 for Small Businesses.

You may view your e-filed return status through AZTaxes under E-filed Documents in the left side menu panel, then E-file Status.

Electronic Filing Options for Taxpayers

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

The state of Arizona offers a website, AZTaxes.gov, where business taxpayers can file and pay state taxes online without a paid third-party vendor.

To file electronically on AZTaxes.gov, you need to ensure you're enrolled on the website and have your TPT license linked to your account. If you applied for a license through B1S or AZTaxes.gov, this is already taken care of.

You can file the TPT return online through AZTaxes for all locations and business codes that apply for the tax period. If new locations or business codes are needed, you can add them within the return, but fees may apply.

Taxpayers in Arizona can also electronically file and pay their transaction privilege tax returns using approved tax preparation software. There are two options: filing through approved software products or tax professionals, or uploading a file created by the software on AZTaxes.gov.

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Some states, like California, have a mandatory e-file requirement for business entities that prepare original or amended returns using tax preparation software. They must electronically file their return with the state.

Here are some electronic filing options available for small businesses:

  • Excise and employment taxes
  • Forms 1120, 7004, 1041
  • Variety of information returns

Note: This is not an exhaustive list and may not be applicable to all businesses.

Self-Employment

If you're self-employed, you'll need to navigate the world of taxes, which can be a challenge. The self-employment tax is a social security and Medicare tax for individuals who work for themselves.

This tax can be a significant expense, and it's essential to understand how it works. You'll need to pay 15.3% of your net earnings from self-employment in self-employment taxes, which includes both social security and Medicare taxes.

As a self-employed individual, you'll need to file your taxes on your own, which can be time-consuming and overwhelming. However, with the right tools and knowledge, you can make the process much smoother.

You'll need to file Form 1040 and Schedule C to report your business income and expenses. This will help you calculate your net earnings from self-employment, which is used to determine your self-employment tax liability.

E-File Waiver for Business Entity

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If you're a business owner who's struggling to comply with electronic filing requirements, you may be eligible for an e-file waiver. We may grant a waiver if we determine the business entity is unable to comply due to technology constraints or other reasonable circumstances.

A waiver may be granted if you can demonstrate that complying with electronic filing requirements would result in an undue financial burden. This could be due to a variety of factors, including technology constraints or other circumstances that constitute reasonable cause.

Here are some reasons that may qualify you for an e-file waiver:

  • Technology constraints
  • May result in undue financial burden
  • Circumstances that constitute reasonable cause

If you think you might qualify for an e-file waiver, be sure to review the specific requirements and documentation needed to support your request.

Business Tax Basics

The form of business you operate determines what taxes you must pay and how you pay them. This means that the type of business you have will impact your tax obligations.

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LLCs can file taxes under their default designation, but you can also change its tax status by filing a form with the IRS. This allows you to have your LLC taxed like a corporation, or even re-form as a partnership or proprietorship.

Knowing how to file business taxes for an LLC is an important step in keeping your finances on track. You'll likely start out filing as a sole proprietorship or partnership, but as your business grows, you should consult a tax adviser or accountant to see if your LLC might benefit from taxation as a corporation.

Business

Business taxes are a crucial aspect of running a business, and the type of business you operate plays a significant role in determining the taxes you must pay.

The form of business you operate determines what taxes you must pay and how you pay them.

Tax Overview

LLCs are taxed based on their members, with the IRS assigning a default tax structure depending on the number of members. If an LLC has only one owner, it's taxed as a sole proprietorship, while an LLC with multiple members is taxed as a general partnership.

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The IRS assigns two default tax designations: sole proprietorship for single-member LLCs and general partnership for multi-member LLCs. However, members can elect to change their tax classification.

A business entity or LLC can also make a further election to file as an S corp, following a procedure similar to a partnership. To do this, the LLC files an informational return and provides members with a Schedule K-1 form showing their share of the profits or losses.

LLCs file taxes under their default designation, but can change their tax status by filing a form with the IRS. This can be beneficial for growing businesses, but it's essential to consult a tax adviser or accountant to determine the best tax strategy.

Here are the tax classifications for LLCs:

  • Sole proprietorship
  • General partnership
  • C corp
  • S corp (or Subchapter S corporation)

If an LLC elects to file taxes as an S corp or a C corp, it will have to file a tax return separate from the personal tax return.

How to File by Type

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Filing taxes for small businesses can be a complex process, but understanding your options can make a big difference. If you need to e-file forms 940, 941, 943, 944, or 945, there are resources available to help.

You can learn more about e-filing these forms specifically for small businesses. Electronic filing options are also available for business and self-employed taxpayers, including excise and employment taxes, and various information returns.

If you're an Arizona taxpayer, you can electronically file and pay your transaction privilege tax returns using approved tax preparation software. There are two options to file: through software products or tax professionals approved for this program, or by uploading a file created by the approved software on AZTaxes.gov.

LLCs file taxes under their default designation, but can change their tax status by filing a form with the IRS. This can be a good option if you're starting out and want to file as a sole proprietorship or partnership.

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To change your LLC's tax status, you'll need to file with the IRS. If you're changing to a disregarded entity, partnership, or C corporation, you'll need to submit Form 8832. If you're changing to an S corporation, you'll need to submit Form 2553.

Here's a summary of the forms you'll need to file for each LLC tax classification:

Remember to file after your effective date of election to avoid any potential tax implications.

Employer Identification Number

An Employer Identification Number (EIN) is a must-have for any business, including LLCs.

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

You'll need to apply for an EIN on the IRS website, a process that's relatively quick and easy.

Having an EIN makes it easier for you to open a business bank account, obtain credit, and even hire employees.

You can apply for an EIN online, by mail, or by fax, and it's free to do so.

Your EIN will be a nine-digit number, usually formatted as XX-XXXXXXX.

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Reporting Requirements

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Reporting Requirements can be a bit overwhelming, but don't worry, I've got you covered.

As an LLC, you'll need to file a separate tax return for your business, which is due on the 15th day of the 4th month after the close of your tax year. This is typically in mid-April for most businesses.

You'll need to report your business income on Schedule C, which is part of your personal tax return. This includes income from all sources, such as sales, services, and investments.

Don't forget to keep accurate records of your business income and expenses, as this will make filing your taxes much easier. You'll need to keep records for at least three years in case of an audit.

You may also need to file other tax forms, such as a W-2 for employees and a 1099-MISC for independent contractors.

Payment and Fees

As an LLC owner, you'll need to pay various taxes and fees to the state and federal governments. One of these fees is the LLC fee, which you'll need to pay if your LLC makes more than $250,000.

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The LLC fee is estimated and paid by the 15th day of the 6th month of the current tax year. You'll need to use the Estimated Fee for LLCs (FTB 3536) form to remit the estimated fee payment.

Here's a breakdown of the LLC fee amounts based on your total California income:

In addition to the LLC fee, you'll also need to pay other types of taxes, including self-employment tax, state income taxes, payroll taxes, property tax, Social Security tax, and excise tax.

Payment

You can use the FTB 3586, Payment Voucher for Corporations and Exempt Organizations e-filed Returns, to make payments.

There are also payment vouchers available for other types of e-filed returns, including Limited Partnerships (LP), Limited Liability Partnerships (LLP), and Real Estate Mortgage Investment Conduits (REMIC).

The FTB 3587 and FTB 3588 payment vouchers are coming soon for LP, LLP, and REMIC e-filed returns, and LLC e-filed returns respectively.

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You can find these payment vouchers and other related forms on the FTB website.

Some publications and tax form instructions are available in HTML format and can be translated using the Forms and Publications search tool.

Here are some examples of payment vouchers and their corresponding forms:

  • FTB 3586: Payment Voucher for Corporations and Exempt Organizations e-filed Returns
  • FTB 3587: Payment Voucher for LP, LLP and REMIC e-filed Returns (coming soon)
  • FTB 3588: Payment Voucher for LLC e-filed Returns (coming soon)

Other Fees Companies Pay

As a business owner, it's essential to understand that your company will be responsible for paying various fees beyond just federal income taxes.

Some of these fees include self-employment tax, which is a tax on net earnings from self-employment.

Let's take a closer look at some of the other fees companies pay.

Self-employment tax is a 15.3% tax on net earnings from self-employment, which includes income from freelancing or running a business.

State income taxes, both personal and corporate, are another type of tax that companies must pay.

Some companies may also need to pay payroll taxes, which fund social security and Medicare.

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Property tax is another fee that companies must pay, which is a tax on real estate and personal property.

Companies may also need to pay sales tax, which is a tax on the sale of goods and services.

Here are some common fees companies pay:

  • Self-employment tax: 15.3% of net earnings from self-employment
  • State income taxes (personal and corporate)
  • Payroll taxes
  • Property tax
  • Social Security tax
  • Excise tax
  • Sales tax

Fee

If your LLC will make more than $250,000, you'll need to pay a fee. This fee is due by the 15th day of the 6th month of the current tax year.

To calculate the fee, you'll need to round your total California income to the nearest whole dollar.

Here's a breakdown of the fee amounts based on your California income:

You can use the Estimated Fee for LLCs (FTB 3536) form to remit the estimated fee payment.

Underpayment

If you don't make your estimated LLC fee payment by the original return due date, you'll be subject to penalties and interest.

You can find more information on due dates for businesses by visiting the relevant webpage.

The penalties and interest will be added to your account, so it's essential to make timely payments to avoid additional fees.

Tax Classification

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Tax Classification is determined by the number of members in your LLC, and the IRS assigns a default tax structure based on this number.

If your LLC has only one owner, the default tax classification is a Sole Proprietorship. This is the case even if you've formed your LLC with multiple owners, the IRS will still default to Sole Proprietorship.

If your LLC has more than one member, the default tax classification is a General Partnership. Members can elect to change their tax classification, but this is the default designation assigned by the IRS.

Here are the default tax classifications assigned by the IRS for different member counts:

Single-Member

Single-member LLCs are taxed like sole proprietorships, where business income and expenses are reported on Schedule C of the member's personal individual income tax return.

The net profit or loss is then listed on the income section of Form 1040, U.S. Individual Income Tax Return. This is because the IRS disregards LLC status for tax purposes, treating it like a sole proprietorship.

Single-member LLCs still retain all of their limited liability protection, which is a significant benefit despite the tax treatment.

Multiple-Member

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Multiple-member LLCs have a unique tax classification that's worth understanding.

If your LLC has more than one member and files as a partnership, the LLC's income will flow through to the members themselves. The members will report this income on their personal or individual income tax returns.

To file as a partnership, you'll need to issue a Schedule K-1 to each LLC member, showing the member's share of the LLC's profit. Your LLC's operating agreement should list each member's percentage share of the LLC's profits and losses. The due date for filing Form 1065 and Schedule K-1 is March 15.

Here's a quick rundown of the forms and due dates you'll need to keep in mind:

LLC members then report their share of profit (or loss) on Schedule E of their personal tax returns. Members must report and pay tax on their entire profit share, even if they leave some of those profits in the business rather than taking them home.

Taxed as C Corps

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You can elect to have your LLC taxed as a C corporation, which can be beneficial in certain situations. This involves filing Form 8832, Entity Classification Election, with the IRS.

Some reasons an LLC might choose corporate taxation include planning to leave a substantial amount of money in the business each year to finance expansion or other reasons.

Your profits are far greater than the amount the owner/employees should reasonably make in salary, and you want to minimize self-employment taxes.

An LLC taxed as a C corp files a corporate income tax return each year on Form 1120.

Shareholders also report any salary and dividends they receive on their personal tax returns, using Form 1040.

Keep in mind that C corporations are subject to taxation at both the corporate level and the shareholder level, resulting in double taxation.

State Income Tax

State income taxes can be a complex and often overlooked aspect of running an LLC. Every state sets its own tax rate on personal and corporate income when paying estimated taxes.

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LLCs and their members may need to file income and franchise taxes in every state in which they do business. This is in addition to your LLC's annual renewal fee.

State tax forms and due dates vary from state to state. You'll need to consult a business advisor for information on renewal fees and due dates.

State income taxes are separate from your annual renewal fee and are specific to each state. The due dates for state income taxes may vary depending on the state.

Here's a quick rundown of the default tax designations assigned by the IRS based on the number of LLC members:

  • Sole proprietorship if an LLC only has one owner.
  • General partnership if an LLC has more than one member.

State income taxes can add up quickly, so it's essential to make accurate payments on time. Consult a trusted tax adviser for more information about specific due dates for your state.

Filing and Deadlines

You can file your business taxes online through AZTaxes.gov, a website provided by the state of Arizona, which allows you to file and pay state taxes online without a paid third-party vendor.

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To file online, you'll need to ensure you're enrolled on AZTaxes.gov and have your TPT license linked to your account.

Filing requirements for LLCs in California include paying the $800 annual tax, estimating and paying the LLC fee, and filing the Limited Liability Company Return of Income (Form 568) by the original return due date.

If your LLC has income or loss inside and outside California, you'll need to use the Apportionment and Allocation of Income (Schedule R) to determine California source income.

You can add new locations, city/regions, or business codes within the return, but fees may apply.

For detailed information on LLC due dates, visit the Due dates for businesses page.

Here are the filing requirements for LLCs in California:

  • Paying the $800 annual tax
  • Estimating and paying the LLC fee
  • Filing the Limited Liability Company Return of Income (Form 568)
  • Using the Apportionment and Allocation of Income (Schedule R) for income or loss inside and outside California

Deductions and Exceptions

As an LLC owner, you're eligible for business deductions on your tax return, which can significantly reduce your taxable income.

One key exception to note is that you can't deduct personal expenses, such as home mortgage interest or car loan payments, even if they're used for business purposes.

You can, however, deduct business-related expenses, such as rent or utilities for your LLC's office space, or travel expenses related to business meetings.

Deduct Startup Costs

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Deducting startup costs is a great way to save money on your taxes. The IRS offers special deductions to LLCs during their first few years of operation.

You stand a better chance of seeing your business grow by capitalizing on these opportunities. This can be a huge help for new businesses.

LLCs can deduct startup costs, including business formation costs, as long as they're reasonable.

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Exceptions to First Year Annual Tax

LLCs that organize, register, or file with the Secretary of State to do business in California are not subject to the annual tax of $800 for their first tax year.

This exception applies to tax years beginning on or after January 1, 2021, and before January 1, 2024.

E-File Options and Requirements

E-filing options are available for many taxes and forms that small businesses need to file, including excise and employment taxes, and forms like 1120, 7004, 1041, and various information returns.

On a similar theme: Business Taxes Form

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You can e-file forms 940, 941, 943, 944, or 945 for small businesses, and learn more about your options on the relevant website.

To file business taxes online as an LLC, you must meet certain conditions, such as doing business in California or being registered with the SOS.

If your LLC meets these conditions, you'll need to pay the $800 annual tax, estimate and pay the LLC fee, and file the Limited Liability Company Return of Income (Form 568) by the original return due date.

For LLCs with income or loss inside and outside California, you'll need to use Apportionment and Allocation of Income (Schedule R) to determine California source income.

Here are some key e-filing options and requirements for small businesses:

Filing Requirements and Exceptions

If you have a multiple-member LLC, or if your LLC elects to file taxes as an S corp or a C corp, then the LLC will have to file a tax return separate from your personal tax return.

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You can file your business taxes online as an LLC, but you'll need to determine if you need to file a separate tax return.

If your LLC is a single-member LLC, you may be able to file your business taxes as a sole proprietorship and report the income on your personal tax return.

For tax years beginning on or after January 1, 2021, and before January 1, 2024, LLCs that organize, register, or file with the Secretary of State to do business in California are not subject to the annual tax of $800 for their first tax year.

It's best to do further research with experienced tax advisors to ensure you're taking advantage of the right tax benefits for your business.

You can consider using a service like LegalZoom to get help with your LLC's tax needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I file my LLC and personal taxes together?

You file your LLC taxes with your personal taxes, unless you have multiple owners, in which case you'll need to consider partnership tax filing. This depends on your LLC's ownership structure and corporation status.

How much does an LLC need to make to file taxes?

To file taxes, an LLC must have at least $400 in income for the year, unless it has no business activity and no expenses to deduct. If your LLC meets these conditions, you may not need to file a tax return.

Cassandra Bednar

Assigning Editor

Cassandra Bednar serves as an Assigning Editor, overseeing a diverse range of articles that delve into the intricate world of European banking. Her expertise spans cooperative banking, bankers associations, and various European trade associations. Cassandra has a keen interest in historical and contemporary financial institutions, particularly those established in the 1970s.

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