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Small Business Year-End Tax Checklist: Reduce Taxes and Boost Savings


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As the year wraps up, it’s the perfect time for small business owners to take a proactive approach to tax planning. The actions you take before December 31 can significantly reduce your tax bill and set you up for a stronger financial start in the new year.


Here’s your Small Business Year-End Tax Checklist to help you identify savings opportunities, clean up your books, and plan ahead.


1. Review Your Business Structure — Is It Time for an S Corp?

If your business is earning over $50,000 in annual net income, it may be time to consider electing S Corporation status.


An S Corp structure allows business owners to pay themselves a reasonable salary while taking additional profits as distributions, which are not subject to self-employment tax. This can lead to thousands of dollars in annual tax savings.

Tip: The S Corp election must be filed properly and maintained through payroll compliance — talk to your CPA before year-end to see if it makes sense for 2025.


2. Max Out Retirement Contributions

One of the most effective ways to reduce taxable income is through retirement plan contributions:

  • Solo 401(k): Up to $69,000 total (employee + employer) for 2024 ($76,500 if 50+).

  • SEP IRA: Up to 25% of W-2 wages, maxing out at $69,000.

  • Defined Benefit Plan: A powerful tool for high-income earners seeking six-figure deductions.

Example: A consultant earning $120,000 who contributes $25,000 to a retirement plan could save roughly $8,000–$9,000 in federal taxes, depending on their bracket.


3. Reimburse Business Expenses Through an Accountable Plan

If you’ve personally paid for business-related expenses—such as your home office, cellphone, internet, or business mileage—set up an Accountable Plan to reimburse yourself before year-end. Reimbursements are deductible to your business and tax-free to you.


4. Evaluate Year-End Equipment, Asset, or Vehicle Purchases

If your business is planning to invest in equipment, computers, furniture, or vehicles, now may be the time.


Under 100% bonus depreciation (available through 2025) and Section 179 expensing, qualifying assets can often be fully deducted in the year of purchase.

Tip: Only purchase what your business truly needs — but smart timing before year-end can provide a major tax deduction for 2025.


5. Verify Estimated Tax Payments and Clean Up Your Books

  • Review your federal and state estimated payments for accuracy.

  • Reconcile your bank and credit card accounts.

  • Correct any miscategorized or personal expenses in your books.

  • Ensure your accounting is ready for year-end reporting and tax filing.


Action Items for Small Business Owners

  1. Review your 2025 business structure — consider an S Corp election if net income exceeds $50,000.

  2. Set up or maximize your retirement plan contributions.

  3. Create an Accountable Plan to reimburse yourself for business expenses.

  4. Evaluate year-end equipment or vehicle purchases for bonus depreciation.

  5. Verify estimated tax payments and clean up your financial records.

  6. Schedule a year-end tax strategy session with your CPA.



Schedule a one-on-one year-end planning session with our CPA. We’ll review your business structure, payroll, retirement options, and potential asset purchases to help you capture every available deduction — and position your business for a tax-efficient 2025. Book a free discovery call with our CPA here.






 
 
 

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