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Accounting and Bookkeeping Services in Corpus Christi, Texas
Corpus Christi small business owners trust 1-800Accountant for professional bookkeeping and tax services that save time, reduce costs, and keep their business compliant year-round.
Our Accounting Services for Corpus Christi 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 Corpus Christi 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 Texas 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 Corpus Christi, 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 Texas with our complimentary incorporation services. Simply cover any Corpus Christi 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 | 6.25% |
| County Tax Rate | 0.00% |
| Municipal Tax Rate | 1.38% |
| Corpus Christi MTA Transit Tax | 0.50% |
| Corpus Christi Crime Control Tax | 0.13% |
| Combined Sales Tax Rate | 8.26% |
| City-Specific Taxes |
|---|
| Businesses in Corpus Christi must pay the Texas Franchise Tax. This tax is based on the taxable margin. The rate is 0.375% for retail or wholesale businesses and 0.75% for other businesses. Annual reports and payments are due by May 15. |
| Licenses and Permits |
|---|
| All businesses operating in Corpus Christi must register for a city business license. |
| Building permits are required for construction or renovation of business property through the Development Services Department. |
| Food trucks, event vendors, and restaurants need fire prevention permits from the Fire Prevention Bureau. |
| Special event vendors need permits depending on location - city property, beaches, private property, or door-to-door sales. |
| Certain professions (contractors, cosmetologists, electricians) require occupational licenses from the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation. |
| Grants and Funding in Corpus Christi | Grants and Funding Information |
|---|---|
| Workforce and Drought Relief Grant Program | The City of Corpus Christi has launched a grant program to support small businesses and nonprofits significantly impacted by the recent Stage 3 Water Restrictions. The program is funded by the city and administered by LiftFund, with a total of $2,000,000 allocated. Eligible businesses can receive up to $50,000 per business location. Businesses must be located within the Corpus Christi city limits and in operation for at least 12 months prior to applying. |
| Arts Grant Program | The Arts & Cultural Commission provides grants to organizations whose programs or services have cultural significance and stimulate the local business economy, particularly by attracting visitors to Corpus Christi. This program is designed for arts organizations based in Corpus Christi with a focus on cultural programming that benefits tourism and local business development. |
| Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program | The City annually receives CDBG funds to support community and economic development, including projects that may benefit small businesses, especially those supporting community needs. The 2026 cycle is noted as open as of May 2025. Specific business eligibility and available funding amounts vary by cycle and program design. |
| Small Business Support Program | This program offers various forms of assistance to local small businesses in Corpus Christi, including potential grant opportunities. Businesses should contact the City's Office of Economic Development for customized guidance on available support, coaching opportunities, and other incentive programs that may be available. |
What to Look for in Corpus Christi, Texas Accounting and Bookkeeping Services
When choosing an accountant or bookkeeper for your Corpus Christi small business, you should consider the following factors:
Energy and Maritime Industry Expertise: Look for professionals who understand the financial complexities of Corpus Christi's dominant industries. Accountants familiar with oil and gas regulations, petrochemical operations, or maritime shipping can provide more valuable insights for businesses connected to the Port of Corpus Christi or the energy sector. This specialized knowledge becomes particularly important during tax season when industry-specific deductions and credits could significantly impact your bottom line.
Knowledge of Texas Tax Advantages: Texas offers distinct tax benefits for businesses, including no state income tax. A skilled Corpus Christi accountant will help you maximize these advantages while navigating local tax considerations. They should understand Nueces County property tax assessments, local sales tax requirements, and specific tax incentives available to businesses in Corpus Christi's growing industrial and technology sectors.
Experience with Growing Industries: As Corpus Christi experiences rapid growth in technology and startups, seek accountants who understand the financial challenges of scaling businesses. Look for professionals who have worked with companies in the area's emerging sectors, including aerospace, tech startups, and industrial development. Their experience can provide valuable guidance as your business expands alongside the city's economic development.
Water and Infrastructure Cost Management: Corpus Christi businesses face unique utility challenges, particularly regarding water resources. A local accountant will understand how to properly account for and potentially reduce costs related to the city's water infrastructure investments and changing utility rates. This knowledge becomes increasingly valuable as the city pursues major water projects like seawater desalination that may impact business expenses in coming years.
Talk to a business tax expert today for all your tax needs in Corpus Christi.
Additional Texas Accounting Resources:
Navigating Small Business Taxes in Texas
How to Start a Business in Texas: 10 Steps
How to Set Up an S Corp in Texas
*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.