Filing and Paying Your Taxes

Important Tax Dates To Remember

While keeping up with deadlines can sometimes feel like a drag, especially when it comes to paying bills, the upside of staying on top of these dates is that you’ll save yourself money by not having to pay things like interest. *Updated for 2024

How do I pay my taxes?

Direct debit, e-filing, pay by mail… All the words! Need someone to just break it down and tell you how to actually pay your taxes? No worries, we’ve got you covered.

IRS Payment Plans: What are they and how much do they cost?

If you are not able to pay taxes immediately, don't worry, you have options.

Estimated Tax Payments: Are They Necessary?

You've probably heard it many times if you're a freelancer or earn other untaxed income: you should be paying taxes quarterly. But how do you know if that applies to you? We're here to help.

Paying Estimated Quarterly Taxes

Confused about how and when to send estimated quarterly taxes? We've got you covered.

What's the deal with extensions?

You may have heard of tax extensions, but you're not super clear on how they work and if you should get one. We can help.

What if the deadline passed, but I didn't file my tax return?

Filing late is much more common than people think. The primary thing to know is that you may have to pay some additional "penalties." (Ultimately they are interest charges on any amount you owe.) Even if you're a couple years late, it's okay, we can help you get your taxes filed!

How do I send a 1099?

In the past, if you hired other freelancers or contractors to help with your business, you had to fill out a 1099-MISC. Starting in 2021, we generally file a 1099-NEC instead.

How to Read Your Tax Return

Think of your federal tax return (which is called the 1040) like the trunk of a tree. All the other forms branch out from there.

What is the difference between “taking the standard deduction” and “itemizing”?

People throw words like deduction or itemizing around a lot, but they don't always use the terms correctly. We'll explain what's going on and how it impacts you.

I'm Married, Should I File Jointly or Separately?

For married couples filing US taxes, there are advantages and disadvantages to filing jointly vs. separately. Can't figure out what filing status you should use with your partner? We can help.

How do I fill out the new W-4 IRS withholding form?

The old W-4 was confusing, the new W-4 is confusing in a different way. Here's some info that will help you figure it out.

How do I handle sales tax in New York?

Figuring out sales tax can feel daunting for freelancers. That’s why we’ve put together a few resources for dealing with sales tax for those of you in New York state.

State Extension Guide

Each state has its own rules about handling extensions. This guide is designed to help you understand the rules for your state and where to pay to get an extension (if Brass Taxes could not file or set up the payment for you!)