Arizona state taxes come every year, and if your business is in Arizona, you will need to file them. Statistics from the federal IRS show that many small businesses wait until the last minute to file their state and local taxes. This could delay refunds, and filing after April 15th could lead to interest payments to the government.

There are plenty of online Arizona state and local tax resources that you can use to help your business file its Arizona state taxes correctly and on time. These range from simple research you can do yourself to databases of professionals that can take over your state tax filing altogether. You should find:

1. Arizona tax resources to break down complicated tax law into easily understood bits.

2. Arizona state income tax forms so you can file your local Arizona taxes in hard copy or electronically.

3. Local CPAs and tax lawyers to whom you can pass your Arizona state tax filing problems and questions.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Get updated information on Arizona state local tax rules for businesses

Tax laws can be confusing. By checking out these Arizona state and local tax resources before you start trying to file, you'll go into the process with more confidence.

I recommend: Read Arizona tax resources online, especially the brochure called Business Basics. This brochure breaks down Arizona state taxes into understandable language. If you're still struggling to grasp your business' responsibility with regards to Arizona state tax filing, try a workshop. The Arizona department of revenue offers several courses in how to handle Arizona state income tax as well as other issues related to businesses.

Acquire your Arizona tax forms and begin filing

If you're not sure which forms would best help you file your Arizona local tax, these will help you get started.

I recommend: Get a copy of the corporate forms list on the Arizona Department of Revenue website. If your business is properly registered, you can file your Arizona local tax online. If you're skeptical about filing your Arizona state income tax online, read the E File Questions FAQ to put your mind at ease.

Hire some Arizona local and state tax resources to help you file

No one knows AZ tax information like a professional accountant or tax lawyer. If you're looking at Arizona tax forms and feeling completely overwhelmed, pushing your tax woes onto a professional may be best.

I recommend: Search the Arizona Society of CPAs database for an accountant near you. You can also try CPAfinder.com, which lists accountants by city. Even if you want to try to file your taxes yourself, you may want to consult one of these CPAs or a tax attorney before you send in your finalized Arizona state taxes.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Take a course in small business taxes, even if you're planning to have a professional file your taxes for you. This course could help you organize your books for the next year or it could give you new ideas for structuring your business to reduce next year's taxes.
• •  Find a CPA that will consult with you as well as file your Arizona state taxes for this year. As tax laws keep changing, make sure you maintain a good relationship with your accountant to continue getting tips and feedback on your taxes.