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How do I file a corporate startup tax return?

Vanessa Kruze, CPA, is a leading expert in startup taxes and tax compliance. Her team at Kruze Consulting has filed thousands of tax returns for companies that have raised billions in VC funding, and her work has been diligenced by leading VCs, attorneys, and M&A teams at the largest technology companies.
Vanessa Kruze, a highly-experienced CPA, brings valuable tax expertise to startups, drawing from her rich background at Deloitte Tax and as a financial controller for a $20 million startup. As the leader of Kruze Consulting, recognized multiple times in the Inc 5000 list, she specializes in navigating the complex tax landscape for startups. Her firm is known for delivering precise and strategic tax solutions, delivering tax credits utilizing advanced tools to ensure compliance and optimize tax benefits for startups throughout the United States.

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I’m a CPA, Deloitte Tax alum, my team prepares hundreds of startup tax returns a year. If you are a startup, definitely consult with a CPA or EA who specializes in startup taxation, for a few reasons:

  • **NOLs (Net Operating Losses). ** As a startup, you’re probably running at a loss for the first few years. You’ll want to make sure that these are properly accounted for so that you can use these “credits” when you’re rolling in profits in future years.

  • R&D credits. If you’re spending time and money on innovation (definition of startup), you want to make sure that you can get extra deductions. This goes back to point 1. Traditional accountants tend to glaze over the R&D forms unless prompted. You may also be eligible for R&D Tax Credits, that can help you lower your payroll taxes. Quickly estimate your R&D Tax Credits using our online calculator here.

  • Local Tax Compliance. There’s a number of little checkpoints that must be met throughout the year. If miss them you could see BIG fines and impassable roadblocks to future financing rounds.

  • Other tax credits. The list of possible tax credits is long - and even longer if you are based in particular states or in specific industries (like AgTech or CleanTech). So you should work with a preparer who knows early-stage companies so you don’t miss out on possible savings. However, it does make sense to temper your enthusiasm, as most incentives are designed for companies making a profit, so the typical, early-stage company is unlikely to be eligible for most of these. But it’s a good idea to ask, since the possible savings are large if you get the right credit or incentive! 

I realize that taxation is boring… but it’s also critical to your life and your startup’s well being. Find a partner that you trust. I’m here to help.

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Startup Taxes Tax Credits
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