Running a small business means your calendar fills up fast. Client work, team check-ins, invoices to send, emails to answer, and the hundred other things that somehow all feel urgent. In that mix, tax deadlines tend to live in the back of your mind as something you will deal with when the time comes.
The problem is that the time comes whether you are ready or not. The IRS and the State of Utah both run on their own schedules, and missing a date by accident can turn a manageable tax bill into an avoidable headache.
The good news is that most tax deadlines are predictable once you know where to look. With a clear view of what is coming in 2026, you can plan cash flow more confidently and avoid last-minute scrambles.
Below is an overview of the most important federal and state tax deadlines for Utah businesses that owners should have on their radar this year.
Federal Tax Deadlines For Small Businesses
Most Utah small businesses have federal obligations that follow the same national calendar. These dates matter regardless of whether you are a sole proprietor, a partnership, an LLC, or a corporation.
March 15, 2026 is the federal filing deadline for partnerships and S corporations. This is when Form 1065 and Form 1120 S returns are due. If your business falls into one of these categories, this is one of the most important dates on your calendar.
April 15, 2026 is the federal tax deadline for sole proprietors, single-member LLCs, and C corporations that operate on a calendar year. It is also the deadline to pay any remaining federal tax owed for 2025.
Estimated tax payments are another key consideration. The IRS operates on a pay-as-you-go system, which means taxes are expected to be paid as income is earned. For 2026, estimated federal tax payments are generally due on:
- April 15, 2026
- June 15, 2026
- September 15, 2026
- January 15, 2027
These quarterly payments apply to many business owners whose income is not subject to regular payroll withholding. Missing or underpaying these payments can trigger penalties even if you pay the full balance when you file your return.
Utah State Tax Deadlines To Know In 2026
Utah generally aligns its income tax filing deadlines with federal deadlines, which simplifies compliance but can also make April especially busy for business owners.
April 15, 2026 is also the deadline for most Utah individual and business income tax returns and payments for calendar year filers. This includes pass-through entities where income flows to the owner’s personal return.
If you file an extension, October 15, 2026 is typically the extended filing deadline for Utah returns. It is important to remember that an extension gives you more time to file, not more time to pay. Any tax owed is still due by the original April deadline.
If your business is required to make quarterly estimated payments at the state level, Utah corporate estimated tax payments are generally due on the following schedule:
- April 15, 2026
- June 15, 2026
- September 15, 2026
- December 15, 2026
Utah businesses should also be aware of February 1, 2027, which is the annual due date for certain state-level filings and payments. This commonly includes employer withholding reconciliations, sales and use tax annual filings, and related W-2 and 1099 reporting at the state level.
Because Utah deadlines vary by tax type, and because requirements can differ based on how your business is structured, checking the Utah State Tax Commission calendar is the best way to confirm what applies to you.
Payroll And Information Return Deadlines
If you have employees or work with independent contractors, there are additional deadlines to keep in mind early in the year.
January 31, 2026 is the deadline to provide W2 forms to employees and 1099 forms to contractors for the prior year. Copies must also be filed with the appropriate government agencies.
Payroll tax deposits follow either a monthly or semi-weekly schedule based on your business size and payroll history. These deadlines occur throughout the year and are easy to miss without a clear system in place.
Staying organized with payroll compliance is critical because penalties for late or incorrect filings can add up quickly and are often harder to resolve than income tax issues.
How To Stay On Track
The simplest way to avoid missed deadlines is to build them into your operating rhythm. Use a shared calendar or accounting system that flags upcoming filings and payments well in advance.
Set aside tax funds consistently rather than scrambling when deadlines approach. Many business owners find it helpful to move a percentage of income into a separate tax savings account.
Review your tax picture at least quarterly. This allows you to adjust estimated payments as income changes and avoid large surprises at filing time.
Working with a CPA or advisor who understands Utah tax rules can also make a significant difference. Instead of reacting to deadlines, you gain a forward-looking plan that supports cash flow and long-term growth.
Take The Stress Out of Tax Season With Ashford Sky
By understanding the key federal and Utah deadlines for 2026, and by planning ahead for payments and filings, you can reduce risk and keep your focus on running and growing your business.
At Ashford Sky, we help Utah small businesses stay ahead of tax deadlines through proactive planning and ongoing support. We’ll make taxes feel predictable and manageable.
If you want help organizing your 2026 tax calendar or building a plan around upcoming deadlines, we would be glad to help. Reach out to schedule a conversation with our team and take tax-induced stress off your plate.
Until next time!