Tax season is here! If you haven’t already filed your taxes you need to get a started so that you don’t incur any late fees or penalties. Many small business owners don’t use accounting, payroll or financial planning software packages. So, as the tax deadline approaches it can be a true nightmare to get everything organized for filing.

All business owners should use a professional tax software package, which can be a lifesaver when it comes to filing at tax time. Also, you can do a few things to help maximize your potential refund if you’ve done nothing at all but keep receipts in a shoebox. Make sure to gather all of your receipts and then categorize them. You’d be surprised at what you can deduct. So get organized and then seek either professional assistance or use an online e-file service.

Before you decide to use e-file, I’d look into https://outright.com to get your tax house in order. They offer free online bookkeeping. Additionally, they can help with 1099 contractor tax burdens often associated with online tax filing, assist you with your estimated taxes and Schedule C, offer support with deductions, supply information about the IRS,  and provide successful self employment tips.

Simply put, Outright.com will help you pay the right taxes, simplify record keeping, and keep your business on track. With their ‘Tax Time Guide’ you’ll immediately know what you can deduct, stay on top of tax deadlines, manage the W-9’s, file 1099’s, and automate your Schedule C. This can help you avoid costly fines and late fees from the IRS. You can convert your shoebox into a complete picture of your overall tax position.

Once you have your tax house in order, check out the top-rated services below. Make sure you review each one to find one that suits your specific tax needs.

1. TurboTax www.TurboTax.com. If you’re a sole proprietor (1099), consultant, contractor or single-owner LLC, TurboTax Home & Business will set the best selection from their offerings. This service package will cost you approximately $80 dollars for Federal filing and approximately $40 per state filing. TurboTax is IRS Certified, very easy to use and guides you step-by-step through all the forms
2. e-Smart Tax www.esmarttax.com. They offer a plain and simple e-filing system that is IRS Certified and backed by the trustworthy tax professionals at Liberty Tax. They offer a great ‘Signature Service’ that costs approximately $150 for both Federal and State Tax preparation. All the forms you require are available, along with easy-to-follow, step-by-step instructions that make free e-filing effortless.
3. CompleteTax www.completetax.com. They offer everything from the basic 1040 EZ tax filing to complex tax situations for business owners and/or freelancers/contractors. Their packages start at approximately $50 for Federal and approximately $33 for State filing.

Carpe Diem!