The end of the year is in sight. Businesses are about to take on the annual ritual of reviewing their finances and preparing their yearly tax returns. While some companies are ready to handle their tax statements in-house, others are considering outsourcing their tax filing to professionals.
Businesses have a few options for tax season. Some rely on professional tax preparers, especially if their finances are simple and relatively straightforward. Tax specialists, however, focus almost entirely on taxes. If an organization’s financials are especially complex, a more qualified professional might be needed to act in an advisory role.
Certified public accountants (CPAs) are well-rounded financial consultants who cover a broad range of services. Budget planning, regulatory compliance, income stream strategy, and auditing support are just a few of the areas CPAs can manage.
What level of support does your business need during tax time? This blog takes a close look at situations that might require more comprehensive financial services.
Tax Preparers’ Role and Responsibilities
Some small businesses have finances that are simple and uncomplicated, especially if they’ve not been in operation all that long. A sole proprietor or single-person limited liability company (LLC) may only need help getting its annual tax reports over the finish line. In those cases, a tax preparer might be sufficient and cost-effective.
Tax preparers help small businesses organize their income and expense reports for tax purposes. They perform functions like:
- Spotting opportunities for deductions or tax credits
- Managing payroll taxes for Social Security and Medicare
- Estimating quarterly tax payments
- Preparing state and local tax filings on top of federal returns
A business with a steady income, a small but effective team, and modest assets may only need a tax preparer at filing time.
However, it’s important to note that tax preparers are not required to be licensed and therefore aren’t tightly regulated. Although rare, some tax preparers also take an aggressive approach to estimating deductions, knowing they aren’t likely to face disciplinary actions. The company, in contrast, may face closer scrutiny.
A small-to-medium-sized company focused on growth may need more thorough financial advice and support than a tax preparer can provide.
What a CPA Can Do
An established business generating income and looking to expand needs a sure hand at tax time — one that can handle the more complex needs of a growing company. That’s exactly what a qualified CPA provides. Some of the specific areas a CPA can address include the following.
Intricate Tax Structures
Some small businesses operate in multiple states or even internationally. They may be owned by several partners with diverse interests and priorities or have run into legal issues with their finances.
All these conditions can make the company’s tax profile particularly complex. A CPA can manage all these tax structures while keeping the business in compliance. They can also help prevent financial mishaps down the road.
Optimizing Rental and Investment Properties
CPAs assist businesses that have commercial, rental, or investment properties in settling their tax affairs. A rental property is subject to complex taxes due to depreciation, revenue, and management expenses. A CPA’s job is to limit their client’s tax liability by helping property owners find all the deductions they can take at tax time.
Business Growth and Change
Perhaps the most important job a CPA can do is prepare a business for sustained growth. When a company changes its legal structure, acquires new assets, or merges with another company, a CPA’s role is essential.
Times of transformation change businesses from top to bottom, especially where taxes are concerned. Experienced CPAs have guided companies through expansion and success.
Support During Tax Audits
As a business grows, its tax exposure increases. A slip-up or misfiling can trigger an IRS audit, which can threaten the company’s fortunes. CPAs are fully licensed to represent businesses during audits. They have deep knowledge of current tax codes and legislation and can help you avoid expensive mistakes that lead to legal fines.
When your business is poised for growth or already on the road to success, a CPA can manage all the financial aspects that arise, including taxes. They can be essential partners in scaling your business for profitability.
Get Tax Time Help From Zabel & Co.
Zabel & Co. supports small businesses through all their financial needs. Whether you need a tax advisor, accountant, growth coach, or fractional CFO, we can help. Contact us for a free profit acceleration analysis.