Important 2009 Tax Dates

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If you are like me and you will be sending a check to the Internal Revenue Service, most likely, the only date you remember is April 15. If you make estimated tax payments, there are more dates you need to remember. Depending on your tax situation, there even more dates you need to remember.

Important 2009 First Quarter Tax Dates

January 15, 2009
Fourth quarter estimated tax payment due. If you file your tax return by February 2, 2009 and pay the tax due, you will not be penalized.

February 2, 2009
You should have received all of your W-2, 1098 and 1099 forms. These forms are required to be sent out on January 31, 2009 but since this is a Saturday, the IRS will allow extend the date until the next business day. If you have employees, be sure you meet the deadline.

February 15, 2009
If you were exempt from federal tax withholding in 2008, be sure to update your W-4 to continue the exemption thru the 2009 tax year.

March 16, 2009
Corporations - File a 2008 tax return (Form 1120) and pay any tax due. If you want an automatic 6 month extension, file Form 7004 and pay your estimated tax due.
S Corporations - File a 2008 tax return (Form 1120S) and pay any tax due. Provide each shareholder with a copy of Schedule K-1 (Shareholder's Share of Income, Deductions, Credits, etc). If you want an automatic 6 month extension, file Form 7004 and pay your estimated tax due.

April 15, 2009
Make sure you've completed and filed your 2008 tax return (Form 1040, 1040A or 1040EZ) and pay any tax due. If you need more time to file your return, file Form 4868 or you can get an extension via phone or Internet. Be sure yo complete your return by October 15, 2009.

• IRA and Roth IRA contributions are due by April 15, 2009.
  

• If you are required to file a state tax return, they are more than likely due by April 15, 2009.
  

• If you paid cash wages of $1600 or more in 2008 to a household employee, you must file Schedule H with your income tax return and report any employment taxes by April 15, 2009.
  

If you have any questions regarding these dates, please refer to IRS Publication 509. If you do your own taxes, I highly recommend using TaxCut. I've used the program for the past 3 years and I love it.