Small Business Taxes in Reno, NV: 5 Things Every Local Entrepreneur Should Know

1. Nevada’s Business License Requirement Isn’t Optional

Every business operating in Reno — whether you’re a one-person LLC or a multi-employee company — must maintain an active Nevada State Business License. You can file or renew through the Nevada Secretary of State’s SilverFlume portal, but make sure it’s renewed annually. Forgetting to renew can trigger penalties or suspension of your LLC status.

2. Watch for the Nevada Commerce Tax

While Nevada doesn’t have a corporate income tax, it does have a Commerce Tax for businesses with more than $4 million in annual gross revenue. If you’re growing quickly, it’s smart to track your total revenue across all sources — even if you’re not close to that threshold yet. Staying proactive can help you plan for potential liability before it surprises you.

3. Keep Bookkeeping Local and Accurate

Reno’s economy includes everything from construction and logistics to hospitality and professional services — which means no two small businesses have the same tax picture. Accurate bookkeeping is the foundation of every smart tax strategy. Tracking receipts, separating business and personal expenses, and reconciling monthly keeps you audit-ready and ensures you don’t miss valuable deductions.

If you’re still doing your books manually or through multiple apps, consider having a professional set you up in QuickBooks Online — ideally with customized categories that fit your business type.

4. Understand Local and County-Level Fees

Even in a low-tax state like Nevada, Reno-area businesses can face local licensing, sales tax, and industry fees. For example, certain trades and professions require additional city licenses, while retail businesses must collect and remit sales tax to the Nevada Department of Taxation. Make a checklist of every renewal and reporting date — or delegate it to your bookkeeper — so you never risk a late fee or compliance issue.

5. Plan Ahead for Quarterly Estimated Taxes

Even though Nevada doesn’t tax business income, the IRS still does. If your business turns a profit, you’re required to pay quarterly estimated federal taxes. Missing or underpaying those estimates can result in penalties that add up fast. Use last year’s tax liability as a baseline, and adjust as income grows. A Reno-based tax professional can help you calculate realistic quarterly payments to avoid surprises.

The Bottom Line

Reno’s business scene is thriving — but growth comes with new financial responsibilities. Staying organized, compliant, and proactive with your bookkeeping and taxes can save you thousands down the line.

If you run a small business in Reno or Carson City and want clear, straightforward help, Jaacovi Tax & Bookkeeping is here to make sure you stay compliant and maximize every deduction.

👉 Schedule your consultation today and let’s get your business set up for a stress-free tax season.