What are the C-Corp tax rates for 2025?
When is the C-Corp tax return due?
What form do C-Corps file with the IRS?
How do I file Form 1120 online?
What’s included in the 2025 startup tax calendar?
Do startups have to pay taxes in their first year?
What startup tax credits or deductions can I use?
How are startup founders taxed on equity?
What are the best tax filing options for early-stage founders?
Where can I get reminders or software for startup tax deadlines?
🧠 The federal tax rate for C-Corporations is 21% and it’s flat, not progressive. However, your state may charge additional corporate income tax (e.g., Delaware: 8.7%).
💡 Pro tip: Delaware franchise tax is separate and due March 1st.
📅 If your C-Corp uses a calendar year, your Form 1120 is due March 15, 2025.
🛑 Missed it? You can request a 6-month extension, but you still need to pay your estimated tax by the due date to avoid penalties.
🧾 Form 1120 is the standard U.S. Corporation Income Tax Return.
If you're unsure whether to file 1120 or another form (like 1120-S), the rule of thumb:
C-Corp → 1120
S-Corp → 1120-S
You can’t e-file 1120 directly via IRS.gov — you need to:
Use an IRS-authorized e-file provider (e.g., TaxBandits, TurboTax Business).
Or file through a CPA or a tool like TaxHero if you’re a startup.
📦 Need an extension? File Form 7004 electronically, same method.
Click here or
Get a personalized calendar for your startup here - https://taxhero.vc/checkin just answer a few questions and get reminders (it's free)
Yes, especially if you made revenue, paid contractors, or had employees.
⚠️ Even if you made $0, Delaware still requires a franchise tax filing.
Some big ones include:
R&D Tax Credit (even for early-stage)
Startup Cost Deduction (up to $5,000 in year 1)
Home Office / Equipment / Software
📊 Use a smart bookkeeping tool (or AI tool like TaxHero AI) to track these, they add up.
It depends:
If you’re paid salary → it’s regular income
If you got shares → File an 83(b) within 30 days of grant to lock in capital gains treatment.
💸 Not filing that? You might owe huge taxes later on paper gains.
Three common paths:
DIY using tools like TurboTax Business or FreeFile
Hire a CPA (expensive but full-service)
Use a startup-focused service like TaxHero AI - built for Delaware C-Corps under $5K MRR
🧠 Use software that syncs your company profile with real deadlines, not just Google Calendar.
With TaxHero AI, you get:
Auto-generated startup tax calendar
Filing status tracker
Deadline reminders (email)
AI-powered form checks & suggestions
→ Try it free at https://taxhero.vc
With AI-powered bookkeeping and tax filing, you stay focused on what matters: building your startup.
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