Business Taxes Decoded 2012

Let's face it: Most of us are daunted by tax season. This series on business taxes presents insights from some of the leading voices in small business today to help answer common tax-related questions and help clarify the filing process. This exclusive series features advice from Barbara Weltman, TJ McCue and a host of leading independent journalists in taxation and business.
The Best States for Business
While no business owner can expect to escape taxes entirely, there are states where taxes are lower than in most places.

Should a Small Business Do Its Own Taxes?
Maybe. It depends on a variety of factors. Here's what you need to consider.

3 Things to Remember When Filing Your Taxes for the First Time
Filing business taxes for the first time? Don't fret. Just remember to do these three things.

How to Minimize What You Owe and Maximize Your Return
Twenty-six-year veteran small-business accountant Frank Gutta gives his expert advice.

How to Choose an Accountant You Can Trust
Be sure to ask these four pertinent questions when interviewing your potential adviser.
3 Most Common Mistakes Made When Filing Business Taxes
No matter how you get your taxes done, steer clear of these common mistakes that are made year after year.

10 Things You Didn't Know About Your Taxes
Mike Scholz, tax director of a Wisconsin accounting firm, shares some tax tips for small-business owners.

Top 5 Tools for Filing Business Taxes
Here's our roundup of tools small businesses can use to file their business taxes.

Are You Really Inviting an Audit If Your Office Is In Your Bedroom?
Contrary to popular belief, deducting the cost of your home workspace doesn't call for an automatic audit from the IRS.

The Future of Online Sales Tax
Billions of dollars in taxes on e-commerce transactions go uncollected every year. But that may soon change.

Planning Ahead: 5 Ways to Save Money on Your 2012 Taxes
It's already time to prepare for next year's taxes. Tax expert Barbara Weltman shares some money-saving tips for 2012.

Infographic: A Snapshot of Business Taxes in the U.S.
Curious about how your business taxes compare to your industry's average? Our infographic sheds light on that and more.
Kalina Mazur is the executive editor of OPEN Forum.