Tax matters, both state and federal, can be very complicated. The Internal Revenue Service and other government agencies offer assistance to small businesses.
The following list summarizes some of the assistance available:
- IRS Small Business Tax Education Program. Small business owners and self-employed individuals can learn about business taxes through a partnership between the IRS and state organizations. The IRS offers a Virtual Small Business Workshop on its Web site. In the search box, enter Virtual Small Business Workshop and click on your desired topic. Workshops are also offered in every state on a wide variety of topics. Go the IRS Web site, and in the search box, enter Small Business Workshop, and select your state of incorporation. Information on the state workshops is also available by calling your local IRS office. The phone numbers are available on the Web site or in your telephone directory.
- IRS Tax Forms and Publications. The IRS Web site contains a great deal of useful information, as well all the forms you might need. You can also obtain copies of the forms by calling 1-800-TAX-FORM toll-free, visiting your local IRS office in person, or requesting by fax to 1-703-321-8020.
- Tax Questions. The IRS is available for tax questions by telephone Monday through Friday during regular business hours. Check your phone directory for the local IRS office number, or call 1-800-829-1040 toll-free.
- Small Business Administration. The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) offers many services for small business owners. It also has publications and videos on a wide range of business topics. For information, call 1-800-U-ASK-SBA. Look in your telephone book for your local SBA office or browse the SBA Web site.
- U.S. Government Printing Office. The U.S. Government Printing Office provides information about publications and other pamphlets to assist small businesses. Most publications and pamphlets are available for sale, and are also available at designated Federal Depository Libraries (FDLs). To find an FDL near you, see the FDL page on the Web site.