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Accounting and Bookkeeping Services in Des Moines, Iowa
Des Moines business owners trust 1-800Accountant's expert CPAs to handle their bookkeeping and tax needs, saving valuable time while maximizing deductions and maintaining compliance year-round.
Our Accounting Services for Des Moines 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 Des Moines 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 Iowa 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 Des Moines, 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 Iowa with our complimentary incorporation services. Simply cover any Des Moines 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% |
| County Tax Rate | 1% |
| Municipal Tax Rate | None |
| Combined Sales Tax Rate | 7% |
| City-Specific Taxes |
|---|
| The City of Des Moines and Polk County do not impose a local business tax on general business activity in the city or county. See Small Business Resources – City of Des Moines. |
| Licenses and Permits |
|---|
| The following businesses require city-specific licensing in Des Moines: mobile vendors, peddlers, tobacco retailers, special event vendors. |
| Iowa state requires businesses to register for a Sales and Use Tax Permit if selling taxable goods or services. |
| Certain business activities may require additional tax permits such as Construction Equipment Tax or Hotel/Motel Tax depending on your operations. |
| Grants and Funding in Des Moines | Grants and Funding Information |
|---|---|
| High Quality Jobs Program | This program provides qualifying businesses with tax credits and direct financial assistance for job creation and capital investment. Companies must create jobs that meet wage thresholds (currently around $35.71 per hour) and make qualifying capital investments to expand operations in Iowa. |
| Targeted Small Business Collateral Grant | Provides up to 40% of collateral needed on commercial loans ranging from $50,000 to $250,000. Eligible businesses must be majority-owned (51%+) by women, minorities, veterans, individuals with disabilities, or long-term residents of rural communities or CDFI investment areas. |
| State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI) | Offers $96 million in funding specifically targeting startups, manufacturers, and businesses owned by veterans and individuals from diverse backgrounds. The program includes an Innovation Fund that supports early-stage companies throughout Iowa. |
| Apprenticeship Training Program | Managed by Iowa Workforce Development, this program provides grants to businesses that implement registered apprenticeship training programs, helping companies develop skilled workers while providing participants with valuable on-the-job experience. |
What to Look for in Des Moines, Iowa Accounting and Bookkeeping Services
When choosing an accountant or bookkeeper for your Des Moines small business, you should consider the following factors:
Certifications and Iowa Compliance: Verify that your financial professional holds appropriate credentials, such as CPA licensure. They should demonstrate thorough knowledge of Iowa's tax regulations, including the state's corporate income tax rate of 9.8% and specific filing requirements that differ from federal standards.
Industry-Specific Experience: Find professionals familiar with Des Moines' dominant sectors. An accountant with experience serving insurance companies, financial services firms, or agribusinesses will understand the unique financial challenges and opportunities in these industries. This specialized knowledge proves invaluable for both day-to-day operations and strategic planning.
Understanding of Local Economic Landscape: Select a professional who comprehends Des Moines' unique business environment. They should recognize how the city's position as an insurance hub affects local businesses and understand the financial implications of operating in Iowa's capital city with its distinctive economic patterns and growth sectors.
Knowledge of Iowa Tax Incentives: Iowa offers numerous business tax advantages, including the High Quality Jobs program, Research Activities Credit, and specific incentives for manufacturing and bioscience companies. A skilled Des Moines accountant can help you navigate these opportunities, potentially saving your business significant tax dollars while maintaining compliance with state requirements.
Talk to a business tax expert today for all your tax needs in Des Moines.
Additional Iowa Accounting Resources:
Virtual Bookkeeping: How To Find the Best Online Bookkeeper
CPA vs. Tax Preparer: Which Is Best for Your Business?
10 Common Small Business Tax Questions Owners Are Asking
*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.