Introduction
Every Texas business whether an LLC, corporation, or partnership has specific tax filing deadlines and payment obligations that must be met to maintain good standing with the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts.
Missing a due date can result in costly penalties, interest, or forfeiture of business privileges.
This guide outlines all important Texas business tax deadlines for 2025, including franchise, sales, and property tax dates, along with the penalties for late filings.
Step 1: Key Texas Franchise Tax Deadlines
All taxable entities in Texas, including LLCs, corporations, and partnerships, must file a franchise tax report annually.
Due Date:
- May 15, 2025
Filing Requirements:
- File Form 05-158 (Franchise Tax Report)
- File Form 05-102 (Public Information Report)
- File Form 05-163 (No Tax Due Report) if your annual revenue is below the $2.47 million threshold
Extensions:
You can request an extension by filing Form 05-164 and paying at least 90% of the tax due by May 15.
Important Note:
Even if you owe no tax, you must still file to keep your business in active status.
Step 2: Texas Sales and Use Tax Deadlines
If your business sells taxable goods or services, you must collect and remit sales tax to the Texas Comptroller.
Filing frequency depends on your total tax collected in the prior year:
| Filing Frequency | Due Date | Who Files |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly | 20th of the following month | Collect > $10,000 annually |
| Quarterly | 20th of the month after quarter-end (April, July, October, January) | Collect $500–$10,000 annually |
| Annually | January 20 | Collect < $500 annually |
Example:
A retailer collecting $25,000 in sales tax during 2024 must file monthly by the 20th of each month in 2025.
Step 3: Texas Property Tax Deadlines
Texas property taxes apply to both real estate and business personal property such as machinery, equipment, and computers.
| Filing Type | Deadline | Agency |
|---|---|---|
| Property Rendition (Form 50-144) | April 15, 2025 | County Appraisal District |
| Tax Bills Issued | October 2025 | Local Taxing Units |
| Payment Due | January 31, 2026 | County Tax Office |
If you fail to file a rendition, the county may estimate your property value and impose a 10% penalty on your assessed tax.
Step 4: Employment and Payroll Tax Deadlines
Businesses with employees must comply with both federal and state employment tax deadlines.
Federal Deadlines (IRS):
- Form 941 (Quarterly Payroll Return): April 30, July 31, October 31, and January 31
- Form 940 (Annual FUTA Return): January 31
- Form W-2 & 1099 Filing: January 31
State Deadlines (Texas Workforce Commission):
- Quarterly Wage Report & State Unemployment Tax (SUTA): Last day of the month following each quarter
Timely filing ensures accurate wage reporting and prevents penalties on payroll discrepancies.
Step 5: Business Registration and Annual Renewal Deadlines
If your business is registered with the Texas Secretary of State, you must maintain your active status by:
- Filing all required annual tax reports (Franchise Tax & Public Information Report).
- Keeping your registered agent and address updated.
There is no separate annual fee for LLCs, but failure to file required franchise documents can cause your business to fall into forfeited status.
Step 6: Common Penalties for Late or Missed Filings
Texas enforces strict penalties for failure to comply with tax deadlines:
| Type of Violation | Penalty |
|---|---|
| Franchise Tax Late Payment | 5% of tax due (1–30 days late), 10% after 30 days |
| Late Filing of Report | $50 penalty even if no tax is due |
| Sales Tax Late Payment | 5% penalty up to 30 days, 10% after 30 days |
| Failure to File Property Rendition | 10% of total property tax due |
| Entity Forfeiture | Loss of right to transact business or maintain legal protection |
Example:
A Texas LLC owing $15,000 in franchise tax that pays 45 days late could owe $1,500 in penalties plus interest.
Step 7: How to Stay Compliant Year-Round
- Mark All Deadlines: Maintain a tax calendar with reminders 15 days before each due date.
- Use Accounting Software: Automate sales and payroll reporting to avoid errors.
- Reconcile Regularly: Match tax payments with accounting records monthly.
- File Electronically: Use the Texas Webfile Portal for faster submissions and confirmations.
- Engage a CPA: A qualified professional ensures filings are accurate and timely.
Conclusion
Timely tax compliance is essential to maintain your company’s legal standing and avoid unnecessary penalties.
By staying ahead of Texas business tax deadlines, using the correct forms, and maintaining accurate records, business owners can protect both their finances and reputation.
With proper organization and CPA guidance, meeting every filing deadline in 2025 can be straightforward and stress-free.
Call to Action
For accurate and timely management of Texas business tax deadlines, contact Anshul Goyal, CPA EA FCA, a U.S.-licensed Certified Public Accountant, Enrolled Agent admitted to practice before the IRS, and cross-border tax expert helping Texas businesses with compliance, franchise filings, and penalty prevention.
Disclaimer
This article is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or tax advice. Always consult a licensed CPA to ensure compliance with Texas state filing requirements.
Top 5 FAQs
- When is the Texas franchise tax due?
May 15 each year. - Are Texas businesses required to file if they owe no tax?
Yes. All active entities must file a No Tax Due Report to remain in good standing. - What happens if I miss a filing deadline?
Penalties apply immediately, and continued non-compliance can lead to forfeiture of your business. - When are sales tax returns due?
On the 20th of each month (or quarter) following the reporting period. - Can penalties be waived?
The Comptroller may grant penalty waivers for first-time offenses with reasonable cause documentation.
About Our CPA
Anshul Goyal, CPA EA FCA is a Certified Public Accountant licensed in the United States, Enrolled Agent admitted to practice before the IRS, and cross-border tax expert assisting Texas entities with franchise, sales, and employment tax compliance.