The IRS Says "Gotcha!" Late filing of S corporation and partnership returns can be costly

The last couple of years, the IRS has been penalizing late filers of S corporation and partnership tax returns. This, despite the fact that late filing of the tax returns (Forms 1120S and 1065), due March 15th, often does not impact the receipt of the taxes due on April 15th.

​Those that are getting this penalty are often couples and other small firms who have formed these business entities to provide legal protection for their shareholders.
 
How much is the penalty?
The penalty is calculated based on each partial month the return is late times the number of shareholders or partners. The fine is $205 per shareholder or partner per month. So a return filed 17 days late with no tax due could cost a married couple with an S corporation $820 in penalties!
 
What you need to know
If you have an S corporation or other partnership, either file an extension or submit your tax return on time. Remember, an extension gives you six months to file and you do not owe the tax until the flow-through tax return due date (typically April 15th).
 
If you receive a penalty, challenge it. A well-worded request for reversal of the late filing penalty may be successful. Remember, the Treasury Department is still receiving the taxes owed to them on a timely basis.

"Tax Tips" are published to provide current tax information, tax-cutting suggestions, and tax reminders. If you would like more information on anything in "Tax Tips," or if you'd like to be on our mailing list to receive other tax information from time to time, please contact our office.
 
The tax information contained in this site is of a general nature and should not be acted upon in your specific situation without further details and/or professional assistance.
 
We are trusted CPA advisors servicing Burr Ridge, Hinsdale, Willowbrook, Darien, Naperville, and all Chicagoland area. 

Do you need assistance with your business and/or personal tax returns? Would you like to have a trusted source for your accounting, allowing you additional time to focus on increasing your business? Do you use QuickBooks, or plan to in the future, for your accounting? We include these in all our service packages, customized to fit your personal or business needs.   
 
We are currently accepting new clients. Your initial consultation is free, so you have nothing to lose and everything to gain. Our experienced staff is available to help you streamline your accounting, giving you more free time for yourself. Set up an appointment today by calling (630) 320-3720 or email us at [email protected]. 
 
For more free resources, such as Tax Rates, Tax Organizers, and Record Retention Schedules, access our website www.monarchaccountinggroup.com.

Monarch Accounting Group, Inc
145 Tower Drive, Suite 4
Burr Ridge, IL 60527
Phone (630) 320-3720
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