How Limited Liability Companies (LLCs) Are Taxed

Limited Liability Companies, better known as LLCs, are the simplest and least expensive business structures in the United States. This legal structure combines the tax advantages of a company with the protection of personal responsibilities enjoyed by corporations.

Unlike a sole proprietorship, an LLC is a completely separate entity from its owner or owners. In this way, business owners are protected from personal liability. However, according to James Liggett CPA, who has years of experience in assisting taxpayers and small businesses with taxes in the state of New York, when it comes to filing taxes, an LLC works much like a sole proprietorship.



Here, James Liggett CPA answers the most frequently asked questions about how LLCs are taxed.

What taxes must an LLC pay?


For tax purposes, the IRS treats a member's LLCs as sole proprietorships. Liggett CPA explains that this means that the LLC itself does not pay taxes and you do not have to file a return with the IRS. If you are the sole owner of an LLC, you must report all profits or losses from your business on Schedule C and submit it with your individual tax return (Form 1040).

How much does an LLC pay in taxes?


The amount an LLC must pay in taxes will depend on the owner's total income. Remember what Liggett has previously said: your LLC is seen as a sole proprietorship when it comes to filing taxes. That being said, an LLC generally has a lower tax rate than a corporation. For example, the tax rate on $ 75,000 in income from a corporation is 34%, while the tax rate on the same amount of individual income is 25%.

Is an LLC better at filing taxes?


Liggett specifies that one of the most important benefits of an LLC is that it is considered a transfer business. This means that an LLC owner simply reports the profits and losses of their business on their individual tax return (the LLC's taxable income "rolls over" to the owner's taxable income). This avoids double taxation: being taxed individually and as a company.

Do I have to file taxes if my LLC made no money?


LLCs that elect to file as a sole proprietorship, generally are not required to file a federal income tax return. But, Liggett CPA indicates in his publications, that some states do require LLCs or individual companies to file their returns, even if they are transfer entities. Remember that this statement must report both gains and losses.

How does a single-member LLC pay taxes?


For tax purposes, a single-member LLC is considered a pass-through entity. Liggett CPA explains that this means that you must report all gains and losses on your personal tax returns. Just like a sole proprietorship does.


Ready to pay your LLC taxes?


For Limited Liability Companies, the most important thing is to promptly inform the IRS about how you are going to pay your taxes. To make this decision, you may need the advice of a Certified Public Accountant, such as James Liggett CPA. This tax professional will be able to inform you about the benefits of filing taxes as an LLC, the deadlines you have to do so, and the deductions you may be entitled to.

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