How to Prepare Your Business for Year-End Taxes—Before the Holiday Rush
Monday, October 27, 2025
The end of the year always sneaks up faster than we think. Between holiday sales, family commitments, and wrapping up projects, many small business owners push tax prep to the back burner until January. But waiting until the last minute can cost you, not only in stress, but also in missed opportunities for deductions and savings.
Here’s how you can get ahead of the holiday rush and prepare your business for year-end taxes now:
1. Organize and Clean Up Your Books
Start by reviewing your financial records. Reconcile your bank and credit card accounts, check that all expenses are properly categorized, and clear out any “Ask My Accountant” transactions. Clean, accurate books are the foundation for smooth tax filing.
Pro tip: If you’re behind on reconciliations, prioritize getting caught up before December. Your future self will thank you.
2. Gather and Review Key Tax Documents
Don’t wait until January to scramble for W-9s, 1099s, and receipts. Make sure you have the paperwork you’ll need:
- W-9s for contractors you paid $600+
- Payroll reports for W-2 employees
- Receipts for deductible expenses (marketing, supplies, travel, etc.)
- Loan interest statements, equipment purchases, and depreciation schedules
Having everything in one place now avoids frantic digging later.
3. Maximize Deductions Before Year-End
There’s still time to make smart moves that lower your tax bill:
- Purchase needed equipment or software upgrades before December 31st
- Make retirement plan contributions
- Consider year-end bonuses (a morale booster and a deduction!)
- Donate to qualified charities for both impact and tax savings
Talk to your accountant about which options make sense for your specific situation.
4. Check Estimated Tax Payments
Review your quarterly estimated payments to avoid underpayment penalties. If your income was higher this year, you may need to adjust your final installment. Planning now can keep you from a big surprise in April.
5. Plan Ahead for 1099s and W-2s
January deadlines for 1099 and W-2 filings come fast. Start preparing now by verifying contractor and employee information. Correct addresses, names, and Social Security numbers ahead of time to avoid costly reissues.
Pro Tip: J&S Accounting takes this stress off your plate. Our monthly bookkeeping packages include 1099 filing for clients who opt in, one less deadline to dread!
6. Meet with Your Accountant Early
Don’t wait until tax season to ask questions. A proactive year-end tax planning meeting can help you identify opportunities, reduce liability, and plan for 2026 with confidence.
The Bottom Line
The holidays should be a time to celebrate, not stress over taxes. By getting organized and taking action now, you’ll save yourself time, money, and headaches later.
At J&S Accounting, we help small businesses stay ahead of deadlines and maximize every deduction they’re entitled to. Ready to check “tax prep” off your holiday to-do list? Contact us today and let’s wrap up your year with confidence.
About J&S Accounting
At J&S Accounting, we provide expert bookkeeping services tailored to the unique needs of small businesses and nonprofits. We recognize the challenges that come with maintaining accurate financial records and how vital this is for the smooth operation and growth of your business. As a woman and minority-owned firm, we’re proud to offer our expertise to businesses in Savannah, GA, and across the nation, helping them navigate financial complexities and achieve better financial management.
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Disclaimer:This content is for information purposes only and should not be considered legal, accounting, or tax advice, or a substitute for obtaining such advice specific to your business from a professional accountant. Additional information and exceptions may apply. Applicable laws may vary by state or locality. No assurance is given that the information is comprehensive in its coverage or that it is suitable in dealing with a customer’s particular situation. J&S Accounting does not have any responsibility for updating or revising any information presented herein. Accordingly, the information provided should not be relied upon as a substitute for independent research. J&S Accounting does not warrant that the material contained herein will continue to be accurate, nor that it is completely free of errors when published. Readers and viewers should verify statements before relying on them.
© 2023 J&S Accounting. All Rights Reserved.
Disclaimer
This content is for information purposes only and should not be considered legal, accounting, or tax advice, or a substitute for obtaining such advice specific to your business from a professional accountant. Additional information and exceptions may apply. Applicable laws may vary by state or locality. No assurance is given that the information is comprehensive in its coverage or that it is suitable in dealing with a customer’s particular situation. J&S Accounting does not have any responsibility for updating or revising any information presented herein. Accordingly, the information provided should not be relied upon as a substitute for independent research. J&S Accounting does not warrant that the material contained herein will continue to be accurate, nor that it is completely free of errors when published. Readers and viewers should verify statements before relying on them.