IRS Taxes and Starting a Business 

Most businesses start out small. As a new business owner you need to know your federal tax responsibilities. This page provides links to basic federal tax information for people who are starting a business. It also provides information to assist in making basic business decisions. The list should not be construed as all-inclusive. Other steps may be appropriate for your specific type of business.

What New Business Owners Need to Know About Federal Taxes

• Is it a Business or a Hobby?
• Selecting a Business Structure
• Employer Identification Number (EIN)
• Business Taxes
• Recordkeeping
• When Do I Start My Tax Year?
• Selecting an Accounting Method
• Checklist for Starting a Business
• Establishing a Retirement Plan
• Small Business Publications

References/Related Topics

• Small Business Resources
  Links to additional resources available from other federal and state agencies.
• Online Classroom
  The Small Business/Self-Employed online classroom has a series of self-directed workshops on a variety of topics for small business owners.
• Publication 4591, Small Business Federal Tax Responsibilities (PDF)
• Recommended Reading for Small Businesses
• Tax Calendar for Small Businesses and Self-Employed