The preventable errors we see most often
Overview
Most people search common small business tax mistakes after getting hit with penalties or surprise bills. The reality is that most tax mistakes are system failures, not effort problems.
The most costly mistakes
Missing estimated tax payments
Underpayment leads to penalties and interest.
Mixing personal and business expenses
This creates audit risk and bookkeeping confusion.
Poor recordkeeping
Unclear records lead to missed deductions.
No monthly reconciliation
If numbers aren’t reviewed monthly, issues compound silently.
How CPAs prevent these mistakes
A CPA builds systems that:
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catch errors early
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keep documentation clean
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forecast taxes accurately
Suggested links
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IRS: Small business tax guide
https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed -
IRS: Recordkeeping
https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/recordkeeping -
SBA: Accounting basics
https://www.sba.gov/business-guide/manage-your-business/accounting
FAQ
Is it okay to use one bank account?
It increases risk. Separation is better.
Do receipts matter?
Yes. Documentation protects deductions.
What’s the fastest fix?
Monthly bookkeeping plus quarterly estimates.
