Finding affordable NYC tax lawyers might seem like an unnecessary hassle. But as a small business owner living in New York, a tax lawyer is a necessity rather than a luxury. In addition to a tax lawyer, you'll need an accountant or a bookkeeper and your own working knowledge of New York tax law if you want your business to be successful.

Taxes are a frustrating part of doing business. If you don't handle it properly, your business could quickly go under. When trying to navigate your taxes, there are a few things you need to keep in mind:

1. Don’t solely rely on New York tax law legal professionals for understanding what taxes apply to your business. Take the time to learn the basics of New York’s tax law on your own.

2. Secure a tax lawyer even if it's on a need-only basis. A good tax attorney can help you spot issues before they become major problems.

3. Hire a tax professional. You can’t do it all, so it's better to have someone who makes a living by understanding New York tax law, while you focus on other aspects of the business.

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

Know New York state taxes and how they apply to your small business

When you first start out as a small business, you'll probably be person responsible for filing your New York taxes. Eventually, you'll need to hire tax professionals, as you want to have as thorough an understanding of New York tax law as you can.

I recommend: Check out the New York State Society of CPAs. Their website is a one-stop resource that offers practical tools, including a tax and adjusted gross income calculator, to help you manage your finances. NYC.gov has all the forms you'll need to file to pay your taxes in New York City.

Secure an NYC tax lawyer to help you with legal issues

As a small business owner, a tax attorney is a necessity. There are many taxes in New York City and New York State that apply to your business. A good tax attorney will keep abreast of the changes in New York tax law and help prevent any problems for your business before they arise.

I recommend: Donald G. Koch has over 30 years of experience practicing New York tax law. Stephen B. Kass is one of the top New York tax lawyers; his offices are located right next to New York's tax court. If you're looking for a tax attorney in upstate New York, try Gross Shuman Brizdle & Gilfillan, PC. They can handle a wide range of legal transactions for businesses.

Hire a tax professional to help you navigate NY tax law

A good tax professional is a must for a small business. You don't have time to do everything, and tax law in New York is a labyrinth that can be difficult to navigate on your own. A good tax professional will take care of your New York taxes while you worry about the day-to-day aspects of running your growing company.

I recommend: Medows CPA, PLLC offers comprehensive accounting services for businesses. Gaines Kriner Elliott, LLC is a large accounting firm in Buffalo, N.Y. that helps companies with strategic financial planning. For more suggestions, try the New York State Society of CPAs to find the right tax professional for your business.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Find a New York tax lawyer that specializes in small businesses. Small business needs are different than those of larger companies, so you want someone who understands how New York tax law applies to your situation.