06/24/2026
Thinking of starting a business?
One of the most important first steps for new entrepreneurs and future business owners is to ensure the right business structure is chosen.
Each business structure has different tax filing requirements and legal considerations. Knowing the difference between them can help determine which option is best.
The most common are:
Sole proprietorship: An unincorporated business owned by an individual. There's no distinction between the taxpayer and their business.
Partnership: An unincorporated business with ownership shared between two or more people.
Corporation: Also known as a C corporation. It's a separate entity owned by shareholders.
S corporation: A corporation that elects to pass corporate income, losses, deductions and credits through to the shareholders.
Limited liability company: A business structure allowed by state statute.
All businesses except partnerships must file an annual income tax return. Partnerships file an information return. Which form you use depends on how your business is organized.
The federal income tax is a pay-as-you-go tax. You must pay the tax as you earn or receive income during the year. An employee usually has income tax withheld from his or her pay. If you do not pay your tax through withholding, or do not pay enough tax that way, you might have to pay estimated tax. If you are not required to make estimated tax payments, you may pay any tax due when you file your return.
Not all tax returns are due April 15th! Make sure you understand the structure you choose and your state and tax requirements.
If you're not sure. schedule a call with me and let's chat!