Any person or business that pays wages to an employee must file a Form 941 each quarter. Form 941 reports employment taxes, including federal income tax, social security tax, Medicare tax, and Additional Medicare Tax. It is due 30 days after the end of each quarter.
Form 941 Filing Requirements
Companies with employees must file Form 941 every quarter to report employment taxes. However, there are exceptions for household employers, seasonal businesses, and agricultural employers. Small employers owing $1,000 or less for the year can file Form 944 annually instead of 941 quarterly, with IRS permission. Agricultural employers report taxes for farm workers on Form 943 filed annually.
Form 941 Filing Guidelines
Form 941 must be signed by an authorized agent or a paid preparer if applicable. Even if the tax amount is zero, Form 941 must be filed. Amendments can be made by filing Form 941-X.
Additional Information
Refer to the General Instructions for Forms W-2 and W-3 for details on expedited filing when terminating a business. Requests for filing requirement changes should be sent by March 15 or discussed with the IRS at 800-829-0115 by April 1. E-filing for Form 941 in 2021 is preferred by the IRS.