Blog & Articles
POLARIS TAX & ACCOUNTING
Smart Tax Strategies for North Carolina Contractors & Skilled Trades (2025 Guide)
Running a contracting or trade business in North Carolina isn’t easy. Between unpredictable income, rising material costs, and constant compliance challenges, taxes often take a back seat—until it’s too late. Whether you're an electrician in
Tax Tips for Therapists and Counselors in North Carolina (2025 Update)
If you’re a therapist, counselor, or psychologist operating in North Carolina, your tax situation is likely more complex than most individuals—especially if you run your own practice or contract with multiple providers. Whether you're in
Tax Strategies for Medical Professionals in North Carolina (2025 Edition)
What are the best tax strategies for North Carolina law firms in 2025? North Carolina law firms can reduce taxes by optimizing their entity structure (S corp or partnership), tracking partner draws properly, contributing to
Smart Tax Strategies for Law Firms in North Carolina (2025 Edition)
What are the best tax strategies for North Carolina law firms in 2025? North Carolina law firms can reduce taxes by optimizing their entity structure (S corp or partnership), tracking partner draws properly, contributing to
Can I Write Off My Home Office in North Carolina?
Quick Answer: Yes, if you work from home in North Carolina and meet IRS guidelines, you may qualify for the home office deduction in 2025. Your space must be used regularly and exclusively for business—and
What’s the Best Way to Pay Yourself from an LLC in 2025?
Quick Answer: How you pay yourself from an LLC depends on how it's taxed. If you’re a single-member LLC, you typically take an owner’s draw. If you’ve elected S Corporation status, you must pay yourself
How to Reduce Self-Employment Taxes in 2025: Smart Strategies That Actually Work
Quick Answer: Yes, you can reduce self-employment tax in 2025—if you choose the right entity, track deductions properly, and plan ahead. The S Corporation structure, retirement contributions, and year-round tax strategy are key ways to
Charlotte NC Business Owners: Are You Missing These 2025 Tax Planning Opportunities?
Quick Summary: Charlotte is home to one of North Carolina’s fastest-growing business hubs—and with income tax changes in 2025, the opportunities to plan ahead (and save big) are real. Whether you're an LLC, S Corp,
Huntersville NC Small Business Owners: Your 2025 Tax Strategy Checklist
Quick Summary: Huntersville business owners are facing a rare opportunity in 2025: lower state income tax rates, federal audit crackdowns, and continued IRS focus on S Corps and self-employed returns. This guide helps you plan
Lake Norman Tax Strategy Update: How NC Income Tax Cuts Affect You in 2025
Quick Summary: North Carolina's income tax rate has dropped to 4.25% in 2025 and will fall to 3.99% by 2026. Lake Norman residents and business owners can benefit—but only with the right planning. This guide
Small Business Tax Planning for NC S Corps and LLCs
Summary: Considering switching to an S Corp in North Carolina? Business owners earning over $50K in profit may save $5,000–$8,000 annually through payroll tax planning and retirement contributions. But the IRS requires reasonable compensation and
2025 North Carolina Tax Deadlines: What You Need to Know
Federal and North Carolina Tax Deadlines for 2025 Type Deadline Notes Individual Tax Returns (1040 + NC D-400) April 15, 2025 Federal and NC returns due. Extension available. S Corporation (1120-S) & Partnerships (1065) March
Should You File Jointly or Separately in North Carolina? Here’s What to Know
✅ Quick Answer: Most NC couples save more by filing jointly, but separate filing may help with student loans, medical deductions, or liability protection. We run both scenarios to find what’s best for you. If
What Tax Credits Can I Claim in North Carolina?
✅ Quick Answer: North Carolina residents may qualify for state and federal tax credits including child care, education, retirement savings, and credits for taxes paid to other states. Many are overlooked without planning. If you
Can I Still File My North Carolina Taxes If I Missed the Deadline?
✅ Quick Answer: Yes, you can still file your North Carolina taxes late. Penalties apply, but filing now reduces them. If you’re owed a refund, you won’t be penalized. Missed the April deadline to file