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Accounting and Bookkeeping Services in Fort Collins, Colorado
Fort Collins business owners trust 1-800Accountant's virtual accounting experts to handle bookkeeping and taxes, freeing up valuable time to focus on what matters most—growing their Colorado ventures.
Our Accounting Services for Fort Collins 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 Fort Collins 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 Colorado 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 Fort Collins, 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 Colorado with our complimentary incorporation services. Simply cover any Fort Collins 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 | 2.90% |
| County Tax Rate | 0.80% |
| Municipal Tax Rate | 4.35% |
| Combined Sales Tax Rate | 8.05% |
| City-Specific Taxes |
|---|
| Colorado businesses must pay a Business Income Tax. Returns are due by the fifteenth day of the fourth month after the end of your tax year (typically April 15 for calendar-year filers). |
| Licenses and Permits |
|---|
| All businesses operating in Fort Collins must obtain a business license, which also serves as your sales and use tax license. |
| Home-based businesses, brick-and-mortar stores, and service providers (including contractors) working in Fort Collins must register for Sales & Use Tax. |
| New business license applications are processed through the online MuniRevs system with approval typically taking up to 5 business days. |
| For assistance with business licenses and permits, contact the City Sales Tax Department at 970-221-6780 or salestax@fcgov.com. |
| Grants and Funding in Fort Collins | Grants and Funding Information |
|---|---|
| Small Business Construction Mitigation Grant | The City of Fort Collins Economic Health Office offers financial assistance to small businesses directly impacted by City-funded Capital Improvement Projects. Eligible businesses (50 employees or fewer) affected by qualifying projects can receive $2,500 grants for construction lasting more than 45 days or $5,000 for projects exceeding 120 days. Qualifying projects include the College and Trilby Intersection Improvement Project and Power Trail and Harmony Road Grade-Separated Crossing Project. |
| The City of Fort Collins awards funding to Public Service programs from its federal HUD allocation. While primarily focused on community services, businesses providing essential services to the community may be eligible. Final funding decisions for the 2025 Competitive Grant Process will be made on June 17, 2025. | |
| Larimer County offers this annual program supporting community and neighborhood projects that connect people to the land. While 2025 awards were announced in February, businesses involved in nature-inspired or community-oriented projects should prepare for the next funding cycle. Previous awards ranged from approximately $3,882 to $4,000 per project. | |
| Colorado Advanced Industries Collaborative Infrastructure Grant | Fort Collins businesses in advanced industries may qualify for this state-wide program, typically accepting applications between February and April annually. Funding ranges from $50,000 to $500,000 per project, supporting collaborative infrastructure for Colorado's advanced industry sectors. |
What to Look for in Fort Collins, Colorado Accounting and Bookkeeping Services
When choosing an accountant or bookkeeper for your Fort Collins small business, you should consider the following factors:
Certifications and Colorado Compliance: Verify the accountant or bookkeeper holds appropriate credentials such as CPA designation or certified bookkeeper status. They should demonstrate thorough knowledge of Colorado's tax regulations, particularly those affecting Front Range businesses and the specific reporting requirements for Larimer County.
Tech Industry Experience: Fort Collins has a growing technology sector with companies like Advanced Energy Industries, Broadcom, and Intel establishing operations here. Look for financial professionals who understand the unique accounting challenges of tech companies, including R&D tax credits, software capitalization rules, and the financial implications of rapid scaling.
Understanding of Local Economic Dynamics: Select a professional who comprehends Fort Collins' diverse economic landscape. Their familiarity with the interplay between Colorado State University research initiatives, the thriving craft brewing industry, and the expanding bioscience sector will help position your business strategically within the local economy.
Knowledge of Colorado Tax Incentives: Colorado offers several business tax advantages, including enterprise zone credits in designated Fort Collins areas, job creation incentives, and specific benefits for clean energy businesses. A skilled accountant can help you navigate these opportunities, particularly those aligned with Fort Collins' focus on sustainability and innovation.
CSU Partnership Experience: Financial professionals who understand the accounting complexities of working with Colorado State University can provide valuable guidance if your business collaborates with CSU on research, technology transfer, or student employment programs. This specialized knowledge helps manage grant funding, public-private partnerships, and university-related tax considerations.
Talk to a business tax expert today for all your tax needs in Fort Collins.
Additional Colorado 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.