Confidently file your C-Corp taxes this year.
Here’s everything you need to file your C-Corp taxes right the first time.
Get StartedConfidently file your C-Corp taxes this year.
Here’s everything you need to file your C-Corp taxes right the first time.
Get Started
What it means to file as a C-Corp
If you started your C-Corporation in 2025, this is your first year filing a corporate tax return.
A C-Corporation is a separate legal and tax entity, which means the business itself pays tax on its profits.
File Form 1120
C corporations report income and expenses by filing a corporate tax return using Form 1120.
21% Federal Corporate Tax Rate
Corporate profits are taxed at a flat 21% federal rate, regardless of income level.
Dividends Are Taxed Separately
Shareholders pay personal income tax on any dividends they receive from the corporation.
Deduct Business Expenses
C-Corps can deduct most ordinary and necessary business expenses to reduce taxable income.
Maintain Corporate Records
Keep formal records such as bylaws, stock issuance documents, and meeting minutes to stay compliant.
Key tax forms for C-Corporations
C-Corporation taxes involve requirements that are different from other business structures. Understanding these early makes filing smoother and avoids IRS issues later.
Reports the corporation’s income, deductions, and tax liability.
Required for employee and officer wages
Sent to shareholders if the corporation paid dividends.
Shareholders report dividends and wages here.
Key things to understand
C-Corps experience “double taxation.”
Partners owe self-employment tax on their share of business income.
Owner-employees must be paid as W-2 employees.
You must file payroll tax returns if you paid any wages.
Dividends are optional and taxed differently.
The corporation needs accurate books.
Corporate formalities matter.
What you need
These records help you complete Form 1120 and understand your corporate tax liability.
Download Free P&L Template
Common deductions
Reduce your corporation’s taxable income with eligible deductions.
Salaries and wages
Employer payroll taxes
Rent, utilities, and office expenses
Advertising and website costs
Software and subscriptions
Professional services (legal, accounting)
Depreciation and amortization
Start-up and organizational costs (for your first year)
Interest expense
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Start filing with confidence
Total Revenue and Expenses
Use your bookkeeping records to calculate your corporation’s income and expenses accurately.
Enter Your Corporate Details
Input your corporation’s information into TaxAct and follow the guided filing process.
Review Deductions and Compensation
Confirm deductions, depreciation, and officer compensation before finalizing your return.
Preview Your Tax Liability
See your corporate tax results and understand what your business owes before filing.
File with Confidence
Submit your return securely with step-by-step guidance every step of the way.
