What to do now to boost business later
Taxes are inevitable. Especially when you run a business. Sure, hiring a tax professional to take care of returns as well as other necessary tax documentation and liability is a smart move, but you could do more. We have a handful of year-end tax planning tips that could help make 2025 a great year.
Central Willamette business tip: Looking for rules and forms from the IRS? Check out their special page titled IRS Tools and Resources to Help Small Businesses.
Do you have the right business structure? There are advantages to being an LLC versus a C- or S-corporation. Other options include Limited partnerships, Limited Liability Partnerships, or a sole proprietorship. The end of the year is a great time to reconsider your options and change the structure if it works in your favor.
Optimize your depreciation schedules. Depending on the asset, keeping your depreciation schedules updated can help maximize the tax benefits. Plus, doing it now can help save a lot of time when you file your return. Depreciation methods include straight-line depreciation for equal valuation over an asset’s lifetime and accelerated depreciation for larger deductions (to reduce overall taxable income in the short term). Always consider the impact of tax laws, keep accurate books, and consult with a tax professional to avoid tax issues.
Plan out next year’s estimated taxes. You might need to chat with your tax professional, but looking ahead at your quarterly or monthly estimated taxes can help with budgeting. We all know a well-planned budget can help boost business success.
Anticipate growth. How will your business grow in the next 12 months? What will change? Do you need additional funding or loans? Document how and where you plan to grow your business and adjust your tax strategies to match. Depending on what you buy or finance could mean a reduction in estimated taxes due to outgoing expenses.
Make a difference. Donating cash or services to a charity can help offset your business income and reduce your tax liability. Be sure to pick a charity that aligns with your business philosophies and those of your customers or clients.
Get Business Advice from the Pros
At Central Willamette Credit Union, our business services team has the tools to help you optimize your business with right-fit checking accounts, savings options, loans, and merchant services. Plus, we have some last-minute business tax strategies that could help make next year the best ever. Get in touch with our team today and add Central Willamette Credit Union to your list of business partners interested in your overall success.