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Accounting and Bookkeeping Services in Buffalo, New York
Buffalo small business owners trust 1-800Accountant's experienced CPAs to handle their bookkeeping and tax preparation, giving them more time to focus on what matters most—growing their business.
Our Accounting Services for Buffalo Small Businesses
Business Tax Preparation: Have your taxes prepared and filed by a CPA with expertise in your industry so you're always confident in your business tax situation. Our CPAs, with more than 17 years of experience on average, can save you thousands annually when you delegate complex Buffalo tax preparation to them!
Bookkeeping: Solidify your financial base and manage cash flow with precise, error-free bookkeeping done for you that saves time and provides crucial insights that empower you to make important data-backed business decisions. This meticulous process delivers essential tools for interpreting data with easy-to-understand reporting, enabling your accountant to develop vital financial modeling.
Tax Advisory: Business tax considerations don't end in April. Through our affordable tax advisory service, you can receive the guidance you need when you need it year-round from a dedicated small business tax advisor. Strategic planning helps minimize your business tax liability in New York throughout the year while ensuring compliance.
Payroll: Save hours each pay period with comprehensive payroll services handled for you, with regular tax submissions to the city of Buffalo, ensuring accuracy and freeing you to focus on other vital aspects of your business.
Business Formation: Enjoy the advantages of officially establishing your business in New York with our complimentary incorporation services. Simply cover any Buffalo fees, and we will manage the rest. This puts you on a path to hiring employees and creating a business bank account as you experience the benefits of an optimized business structure and maximum tax savings.
Discussing your business taxes with 1-800Accountant is quick and easy:
- Set up a time for us to give you a call.
- Tell us what’s going on with your business.
- Get matched with an accountant who knows your industry & local regulations.
| Level | Rate |
|---|---|
| State Tax Rate | 4.00% |
| County Tax Rate | 4.75% |
| Municipal Tax Rate | None |
| Combined Sales Tax Rate | 8.75% |
| City-Specific Taxes |
|---|
| Buffalo businesses that own real property must pay a property tax based on 100% of the assessed market value at the local mill rate of about 23.55 mills (that is $23.55 per $1,000 of value). Payments are due July 1 and January 1 each year. Exemptions such as 485-a and 485-b may apply (details). |
| Licenses and Permits |
|---|
| The following businesses require city-specific licensing in Buffalo: mobile food vendors and food service establishments, entertainment venues and amusement businesses, professional services requiring inspection for public safety, retail businesses with physical locations, home-based businesses in certain categories. |
| All Buffalo business licenses must be renewed annually and require inspections from various city departments before approval. |
| New York State requires separate professional licenses for many occupations including real estate agents, contractors, and various professional service providers. |
| Grants and Funding in Buffalo | Grants and Funding Information |
|---|---|
| Buffalo Business Forward: Small Business Assistance Grant Program | The City of Buffalo's Mayor's Office of Strategic Planning administers this $4.3 million program, with $3.5 million allocated for direct business grants. Small business owners in Buffalo impacted by the pandemic can receive financial support and professional guidance, with grants distributed across nine council districts. |
| East Side Building Fund | Empire State Development (ESD) and Heart of the City Neighborhoods, Inc. offer grants up to $400,000 per applicant for commercial and mixed-use property owners in East Buffalo. This $10 million fund supports private building renovations and infill development to revitalize neighborhood business districts. Applications are due by 4 p.m. on Friday, June 27, 2025. |
| Small Business Technical Assistance | Buffalo offers technical assistance programs to help small businesses navigate available funding opportunities. These services include guidance on application processes, business planning, and connecting entrepreneurs with appropriate financial resources to support business growth and sustainability. |
What to Look for in Buffalo, New York Accounting and Bookkeeping Services
When choosing an accountant or bookkeeper for your Buffalo small business, you should consider the following factors:
Local Tax Knowledge: Find professionals who understand New York's complex state tax structure and Buffalo's specific local taxes. A Buffalo-based accountant will navigate the city's property tax assessments, sales tax requirements, and help you manage the impact of Erie County taxes on your business operations.
Industry Specialization: Seek accountants familiar with Buffalo's evolving economic landscape. Whether your business operates in the growing healthcare sector, educational services, or the revitalized waterfront tourism industry, your financial partner should understand the unique financial challenges and opportunities in your field.
Winter Business Planning: Buffalo's famous lake-effect snow can disrupt business operations for days or weeks. Look for financial professionals who can help create contingency plans for seasonal cash flow variations and understand how to properly account for weather-related business interruptions—a consideration many national firms might overlook.
Economic Development Incentive Expertise: Buffalo has undergone significant revitalization through programs like the Buffalo Billion initiative. Your accountant should understand available tax credits, grants, and incentives for businesses participating in the city's renaissance, particularly in targeted growth zones like the Buffalo Niagara Medical Campus or Canalside development areas.
Small Business Focus: With Buffalo's growing entrepreneurial scene, particularly in neighborhoods like Elmwood Village and Allentown, choose an accountant who specializes in supporting small and medium-sized businesses. They should offer scalable services that can grow as your business expands in Western New York's improving economic climate.
Talk to a business tax expert today for all your tax needs in Buffalo.
Additional New York Accounting Resources:
A Comprehensive Guide to Small Business Taxes in New York
6 Steps to Start an LLC in New York
How Much Does It Cost to Set Up an S Corp in New York?
*Based on a $12.2k average 2022 tax refund per client, which is 4x the cost of a full-service package. Source: first-party data.
*Includes average business tax preparation, form completion and submission, record keeping, and other misc admin time. Source.
*Historical first-party data.