The franchise tax is a yearly tax payable by all entities operating within Tennessee. There are three types of taxes imposed on businesses in Tennessee: franchise tax, excise tax and sales tax. All businesses are required to file a return each year and remit the appropriate amount of tax. However, some businesses are exempt from paying certain taxes. These include:
1. Nonprofit organizations
2. Governmental agencies
3. Churches
4. Schools
5. Libraries
6. Hospitals
Table of Contents
Calculating Franchise Tax
The franchise tax is imposed on corporations according to how much money they make. In 2018, it was $1 million per corporation. This amount is determined by dividing the total assets of the corporation by the number of shareholders. Shareholders are usually individuals who invest in the corporation. They receive dividends, which are profits distributed to shareholders, and stock options, which give shareholders the option to buy shares at a set price.
Businesses pay franchise taxes based upon the book value of their assets, while landlords pay based upon the lease value of their property. A landlord pays a percentage of his monthly income to the government, while businesses pay a flat fee.
Franchise and Excise Taxes
1. Franchise Tax
Tennessee’s franchise tax rate is 6% of the gross receipts of any business conducted within Tennessee. Gross receipts means total sales less returns and allowances. Sales includes all purchases, including services rendered. Returns and allowances means money returned to customers after deducting expenses incurred in making those sales.
The excise tax rate is 4% of the wholesale price of marijuana sold at retail. Wholesale price means the amount charged by the wholesaler to the retailer plus the cost of transportation and handling. Retailer means anyone who sells marijuana at retail.
Many business owners think franchise taxes aren’t something they need to worry about because it’s just part of being a business owner. But some business owners do try to reduce franchise taxes any way they can. This includes filing incorrect forms, failing to pay franchise taxes, and claiming deductions that don’t apply. These actions could lead to fines, penalties, and even jail time.
Consultation with a qualified professional will help you maximize your benefits. You’ll want to talk to someone who understands the rules and regulations regarding franchise taxes. They’ll know how to file your returns correctly and accurately. And they’ll know your eligible deductions and whether you qualify for any credits.
Hiring an experienced franchise tax attorney will help you avoid costly errors. He or she will know what to look out for when reviewing your return. If there are problems with your return, he or she will know how to fix them quickly.
An experienced franchise tax lawyer knows how to file your taxes properly. He or she will understand the nuances of the tax code and know what to look out when reviewing your return. They’ll know what deductions you qualify for and whether you qualify to take any credits.
A seasoned franchise tax lawyer knows what questions to ask during your consultation. They’ll make sure you understand everything involved with franchise taxes. They’ll explain the process and answer any questions you might have.
When hiring a franchise tax lawyer, consider asking these questions:
1. What experience do you have with franchise taxes?
What form of tax on Tennessee business revenue would you be required to pay?
Corporations are taxed on profits earned within the state. This includes both federal taxable income and local taxes. In addition, corporations are often required to pay a franchise tax. For example, Tennessee imposes a 3% franchise tax on most businesses. However, there are exceptions. Corporations must file Form TN2032 to determine whether they qualify for one of these exemptions.
The Process of Tennessee State Income Tax
Tennessee imposes both an excise tax and franchise tax. The excise tax is a percentage of income while the franchise tax is a flat 6 7/10 % of net earnings. Both taxes are computed and paid on Form Fax 170.
The return must be filed within fifteen days of the end of each taxable period. Corporations pay both an Excise tax and a Franchise tax. Sole proprietorships pay the same amount as corporations.
Corporations
A corporation is a legal entity that exists separately from its owners. In addition to having separate liability and assets, corporations are taxed differently than individual taxpayers. Corporations must file two different forms, Form 1065 and Schedule K-1, with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). If you operate a corporation, ensure you understand how to treat yourself and your corporation as separate entities.
– Your shareholders are responsible for filing a personal return on their behalf and their respective corporate stock shares.
– Shareholders may deduct losses against future profits up to the amount of their basis in their shares of stock.
– Shareholders cannot claim deductions based on dividends paid to them by the corporation.
– Shareholders are required to report capital gains and losses on their returns.
What forms do you file for your Tennessee taxes?
Tennessee corporate net income tax is computed at.25% of the taxpayer’s net worth. This includes the net worth of the parent corporations. The franchise tax is based upon the net worth of the entity. The excise tax is based upon the taxable income of the entity.
The state has a 7% sales tax, but the average effective local tax rate is 2.41%, meaning you pay 9.41% in taxes. This includes federal income tax and property tax. However, there are some exemptions on certain items, such as groceries and prescription drugs.
Who must pay franchise tax in Tennessee
1. Corporations
Corporations are not subject to franchise taxes if they have no business activities in Tennessee. A corporation may qualify for exemption if it meets any of the following criteria:
a) Has its principal place of business outside of Tennessee;
b) Is organized under the laws of another state;
c) Does not maintain offices, employees, or agents in Tennessee;
d) Does not own real property in Tennessee;
e) Does not conduct business in Tennessee;
f) Does not derive income from sources within Tennessee;
g) Derives less than 50% of its gross revenue from sources within Tennessee; or
h) Has fewer than 10 shareholders who reside in Tennessee.
2. Partnerships
Partnerships are treated similarly to corporations except that partnerships do not need to meet any of the above criteria to avoid paying franchise taxes. Instead, partners are taxed at their individual rates.
3. Sole Proprietors
Sole proprietors are taxed at their personal rate unless they file Form TN-100, Personal Income Tax Return. If they do not file a return, then they are liable for a $50 penalty per year.
James Rourke is a business and legal writer. He has written extensively on subjects such as contract law, company law, and intellectual property. His work has been featured in publications such as The Times, The Guardian, and Forbes. When he’s not writing, James enjoys spending time with his family and playing golf.
