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Get Ready for Tax Season 2025 – Deadlines and Tips

Writer's picture: DesCPA Business AdvisoryDesCPA Business Advisory

Tax season can be stressful, but that feeling doesn’t have to be your “normal” every year. I know there are lots of deadlines and paperwork, but we can break the process into smaller steps so it doesn’t seem like a huge task. Whether you are handling business taxes or filing as an individual, please start early to save yourself time, anxiety, and even money.


Lydia Desnoyers, CPA in a red suit writing at a desk with files, certificates on the wall, and a whiteboard. Bright, professional office setting.

Important Tax Deadlines to Keep in Mind

Deadlines for businesses and individuals are different, and a lot of people wait until the last minute to start filing. But not filing on time can lead to penalties, interest, and unnecessary stress for both you and your CPA or tax preparer. Keep in mind that many of us will not take you as a client if you wait until the last minute. If you know you won’t be able to file on time, file for an extension. It’s more common than you might think, and filing an extension won’t automatically raise red flags with the IRS.


Here are important dates and deadlines you need to know for 2025:


  • January 27: The IRS begins accepting tax returns. (Yes, it’s go-time!)

  • January 31: Deadline to issue 1099-NEC and W-2 forms to contractors and employees.

  • March 17: S-Corp and partnership tax returns are due.

  • April 15: Individual income tax returns, sole proprietorships, and single-member LLC filings are due.

  • September 15: Final deadline for businesses on extension.

  • October 15: Final deadline for individuals on extension.

Tax Season Reminders timeline with key IRS deadlines from January to October. Dates listed include tax return and form submission due dates.

If by the time you’re reading this, you have already missed a deadline, don’t panic. Reach out so we can figure out what we can do to get you back on track.


Common Tax Season Challenges

Tax season has a reputation for being stressful, but I’ve noticed that a lot of the time, the stories people tell themselves only make it worse. Many clients come to me convinced they’re in serious trouble, only for us to find out their situation isn’t nearly as bad as they thought. Sometimes, all it takes is a clear plan and a little guidance. I’m not saying this is always the case, but it happens often.


Choosing the right professional makes all the difference. Make sure you work with someone ethical—someone who won’t take advantage of your worries. And make sure they know what they are doing.  


I’ve had clients come to me after working with “professionals” who didn’t warn them about penalties for not paying estimated taxes. These penalties are easily avoidable with proper planning. In case you are not familiar with estimated taxes, they are the quarterly payments required by the IRS if your tax liability is expected to be more than $1000 – They're usually necessary for people who don’t have income taxes withheld from W2 income, for example, self-employed individuals and business owners. These payments prevent you from facing a large tax bill at the end of the year (and most importantly - the penalties that come with not paying them). No one wants to overpay for a mistake that could’ve been avoided.

A toddler in blue overalls sits on grass. Top image shows surprise, bottom shows joy. Text compares tax season stress with CPA relief.

What You Need to Do

For Individuals

  • Gather all your income documents, like W-2s, 1099s, and investment statements.

  • Track deductible expenses, such as medical costs, education expenses, or home office use.

  • Review last year’s tax return for potential carryovers or credits you might be missing.

  • Double-check your estimated tax payments.


For Businesses

  • Make sure you’ve issued all required 1099-NEC and W-2 forms by January 31.

  • Organize receipts and expense records—everything from office supplies to travel costs.

  • Double-check your estimated tax payments.


For Single Moms by Choice

This one might seem a little random, but as a single mom by choice, I wanted to share some perks available to my fellow SMBCs.

Single Mom by Choice and daughter smile brightly while posing for a photo outdoors. They're sitting on a bench with green grass and trees in the background.

  • File as Head of Household (HOH) to get a larger standard deduction and a lower tax rate, which could result in a bigger refund or less tax owed.

  • Claim the Child Tax Credit to reduce the amount of tax you owe, with up to $2,000 per qualifying child.

  • Take advantage of the Dependent Care Credit if you're paying for childcare while you work or pursue education, which can help reduce your taxable income.


How a CPA Can Help

When you work with a professional, you’re not just getting help with your taxes—you’re getting peace of mind. I can help you:


  • Understand your financial situation.

  • Meet deadlines (or file an extension if needed).

  • Maximize deductions and minimize liability with strategies tailored to you.


The earlier we start, the smoother the process. Once we are done with your taxes, you can focus on what really matters—whether that is growing your business or enjoying some well-deserved downtime. 


And if you’re looking for ongoing support, I also offer strategic planning and outsourced CFO services to help guide your business beyond tax season. Book your free 20-minute call here to discuss your needs 1-1. You don’t need to be in Florida to work with me—clients from all over the U.S. are welcome.

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