If you filed for an extension in April, October 15th may be creeping up faster than you’d like. Don’t worry—you’re not alone! Many taxpayers in Illinois and nationwide are preparing for the final push. While the extension gives you extra time to file, it doesn’t extend the time to pay. The key to managing this […]
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Is Your September 15 Estimated Tax Payment Ready? Here’s Why It Matters
As a small business owner or self-employed individual, staying on top of your estimated tax payments is crucial. The next big deadline is September 15, and making your payment on time is more important than ever. Missing it could lead to penalties and unnecessary stress—something no one needs. Why Timely Payment Matters The IRS expects […]
Understanding the Importance of Estimated Taxes in Illinois and Federally
Estimated taxes are a critical aspect of tax planning for individuals and businesses, particularly for those who do not have taxes withheld from their income throughout the year. This is common for freelancers, small business owners, and others with income outside of traditional employment. Both the federal government and the state of Illinois require the […]
Understanding the Differences Between W-2 Employees and 1099 Contractors in Illinois
Navigating the distinctions between W-2 employees and 1099 contractors is crucial for both employers and workers in Illinois. Each classification comes with unique legal, financial, and operational implications. At Blue Ocean Tax Advisors, we aim to demystify these differences, helping you make informed decisions. Definitions W-2 Employees: A W-2 employee is a worker who performs […]
Tax Planning for the Self-Employed
Self-employment offers the opportunity to be your own boss and establish a lifelong bond with your accountant. If you’re self-employed, you will need to pay your own FICA taxes and manage your retirement plan, among other responsibilities. Here are some essential tax planning tips for the self-employed. Understand Self-Employment Tax and How It’s Calculated Ensure […]
Quarterly Estimated Tax Payments: A Guide for Business Owners
At Blue Ocean Tax Advisors, we understand that determining your quarterly estimated tax payments can be a daunting task. To help ease this burden, we’ve put together a guide addressing some of the most frequently asked questions about estimated taxes. What are Estimated Taxes? Estimated taxes are payments made to the IRS throughout the year […]