1. First quarter estimated tax payment due April 17
Small businesses and self-employed individuals often need to make quarterly estimated tax payments to cover their tax obligation and avoid paying penalties. Estimated tax payments can be used to pay both income tax and self-employment tax (Social Security and Medicare).
The first payment installment for 2018 is due April 17. IRS Direct Pay is the fastest and easiest way to make these payments. The Electronic Federal Tax Payment System (EFTPS) and the IRS2Go mobile app are also secure and time-efficient options.
2. Business owners: Beware of ‘IRS Refunds’ email scam
In an April 9 news release, the IRS identifies a new bogus email pretending to be from “IRS Refunds,” and containing a link that connects to a fake page where thieves try to steal personally identifiable information, such as Social Security numbers.
These links or attachments often download malware that can give the scammers control of the computer or track keystrokes to determine sensitive passwords or critical information, placing personal and/or business data at risk.