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Do I File My LLC Taxes with My Personal Taxes?

By Jacinta Sherris

Published on 8 Oct 2023 5 min read

The way you file your LLC taxes depends on the tax classification of your LLC. In the United States, LLCs are typically treated as “pass-through” entities for tax purposes. This means that you may be able to file your LLC taxes with your personal taxes. However, it’s not always a given.

Alongside consulting tax experts, it’s important to understand how the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) treats Limited Liability Companies (LLCs) for tax purposes to ensure you’re fulfilling your tax obligations. In this article, we’ll discuss the tax filing requirements for each type of LLC to help you better understand where you stand.

How Does the IRS Treat LLCs for Tax Purposes?

When it comes to tax purposes, the IRS treats LLCs differently based on their structure and the number of members they have. Let’s delve into how filing taxes work for different types of LLCs and the requirements associated with each.

1. Single-Member LLCs

Single-member LLCs, as the name suggests, have a single owner. For tax purposes, the IRS treats them as sole proprietorships. This means that the LLC’s income and expenses are reported on Schedule C of the owner’s personal tax return (Form 1040). 

Single-member LLCs must also pay self-employment taxes, which cover Social Security and Medicare taxes. The due date for filing taxes for single-member LLCs is typically April 15th, just like personal tax returns.

2. Multi-Member LLCs

Multi-member LLCs have more than one owner. By default, the IRS treats them as partnerships for tax purposes. Each member reports their share of the LLC’s income and losses on their individual tax returns. 

Multi-member LLCs must file a partnership tax return (Form 1065) to report the LLC’s financial information. The due date for filing partnership tax returns is March 15th, though an extension can be requested.

3. LLCs Taxed as C Corporations

LLCs reserve the option to be taxed as C corporations. When taxed as a C corporation, the LLC must file a separate corporate tax return (Form 1120). 

The profits are taxed at the corporate tax rate, and shareholders may be subject to additional taxation on dividend earnings. The due date for filing C corporation tax returns is typically April 15th, though it may vary depending on the fiscal year-end.

4. LLCs Taxed as S Corporations

Alternatively, an LLC can elect to be taxed as an S corporation. With this election, the LLC avoids double taxation, as the profits and losses flow through to the individual shareholders’ tax returns.

The LLC must file a corporate tax return (Form 1120S), and each shareholder reports their share of the income and losses on their personal tax returns. The due date for filing S corporation tax returns is also typically March 15th, with the option to request an extension.

Other Taxes Your LLC May Need to Pay

When it comes to running an LLC, there are certain taxes that business owners need to be aware of beyond traditional income taxes. Let’s take a look.

1. Self-Employment Tax

The self-employment tax applies to LLC owners actively involved in the daily operations of the business. This tax covers Social Security and Medicare taxes and is calculated based on the owner’s share of the LLC’s profits. 

It’s important for LLC owners to calculate and set aside an appropriate share of funds for this expense throughout the year to avoid any surprises when tax season rolls around.

2. State Taxes

State taxes vary depending on the state where the business is located, and they may or may not include franchise taxes, sales taxes, and employment taxes. 

LLC owners will need to take the time to understand their state’s tax laws and requirements and factor these taxes into their overall financial planning. Failing to comply with state tax regulations can lead to penalties and legal complications down the line.

3. Estimated Taxes

LLC owners who expect to owe more than a certain amount in taxes may need to make quarterly estimated tax payments to the IRS to ensure they are meeting their tax obligations throughout the year. This helps prevent underpayment penalties at the end of the year.

Can You File Your LLC Taxes Separately?

When it comes to filing taxes for your LLC, the default method is usually to report the business’s income on your personal tax return. This means that as a single-member LLC or a multi-member LLC, the income and expenses of your business are reported directly on your personal tax return using Schedule C or Schedule E. 

This is known as “pass-through taxation,” and it simplifies the process by avoiding the need for a separate tax return for your LLC.

However, in some cases, you may have the option to file your LLC taxes separately from your personal taxes. This is possible if your LLC elects to be taxed as a corporation, either as an S corporation or a C corporation. 

By doing so, the LLC becomes a separate legal entity for tax purposes, and a separate tax return must be filed. This can have certain advantages, such as reducing self-employment taxes and providing additional tax planning opportunities.

Can You Deduct Your LLC Expenses on Your Personal Tax Return?

As a general rule, you cannot deduct your LLC expenses on your personal tax return if you are using the default pass-through taxation method. Instead, these expenses are included in the overall calculation of your LLC’s net income, which is then reported on your personal tax return. 

However, certain expenses may be deductible on your personal tax return, such as startup expenses or home office expenses, if you meet specific criteria and follow the appropriate IRS guidelines.

How to Change LLC Tax Classification?

If your business’s finances are changing or if you’re looking to restructure ownership of your company, you may be considering changing your LLC’s tax classification status.

To do this, you’ll first need to file the appropriate tax forms with the IRS. You can do so by researching the requirements on the IRS website or by opting to use doola. doola is the one-stop shop for small business resources – from entity formation to business banking and more. 

Get in touch for a free consultation to learn how doola can help you change your LLC tax classification status online and in a few simple steps.

Mastering LLC Taxes and Personal Taxes

Understanding how to handle LLC taxes is a crucial aspect of running your business. Whether you’re a single-member LLC or part of a multi-member entity, the tax classification and reporting requirements can significantly impact your financial obligations.

It’s important to consult with a qualified tax advisor or accountant to ensure accurate tax compliance, maximize potential tax benefits, and make informed decisions about your tax obligations.

You’ll also want to explore all the small business tax resources available through doola. Our software systems help businesses manage taxes with ease. Discover bookkeeping solutions, tax packages, and compliance tools to optimize your business’s finances. 

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