(continued from page 1)
Non-employee compensation
Another piece to year-end tax returns is the review of independent contractors you paid to see if the government must be notified of their non-employee compensation. Your employees receive a W-2 form to identify their income and withholding tax. Similarly, your contractors who make $600 (as of 2004 tax year) or more would receive form 1099-MISC from you, and the federal and state governments would also receive a copy. Contractors who are corporations are exempt from receiving this form, but partnerships and limited liability companies with more than one member must receive them. If you wait until year-end to obtain the contractor’s social security number or employer identification number you might not be successful in obtaining that required information. Have your contactors fill out form W-9 to give you the needed information.
Automobile expenses
Automobile expense can be a major expense for a new or existing business. The business owner should maintain an auto log to keep track of where and when he or she traveled to, who was seen, and if there was a business purpose to the trip. While some individuals only track business use, I recommend keeping the log for all auto expenses, since those who itemize their deductions can also deduct transportation as a medical expense, and as a charitable contribution deduction if active in a charity. The business tax returns will want to know when you placed the vehicle in service, and the amount of the business, commuting and personal miles for each vehicle for the year.
Self-employment tax
Profitable sole proprietors are sometimes surprised to find that self-employment tax ( social security and medicare tax for self-employed individuals) can be overlooked and may be a significant part of their total tax bill. Be sure to calculate these taxes as part of your total estimated taxes when paying quarterly estimates. Also be prepared for the April 15 surprise. Not only is the balance due for last year’s taxes, but also due is the first quarter installment of the next year’s taxes. Cash flow must be monitored to have these funds available.
This list covers only a few of the many items a new business owner should consider in preparing for the initial business tax return. Those who work with business tax preparers should also consult with them to determine in what format the business data should be transmitted to them for preparation of your returns.
____________________________________
Joseph L. Rosenberg is a Certified Public Accountant in Florham Park, NJ, specializing in working with entrepreneurs and small business owners. He can be reached at (973) 443-4332 or josephlrosenbergcpa@consultant.com.
