Trades & Services

Tax help for general contractors

Running a general contracting business means juggling subcontractors, materials, and job sites, all of which shape your deductible expenses.

Prepared by real tax specialists — with Enrolled Agent or CPA review when your return calls for it.

Independent general contractors report income on Schedule C and pay self-employment tax on net profit, often managing multiple jobs and crews at once.

Because you frequently hire and pay subcontractors and buy materials in bulk, recordkeeping and proper 1099 issuance are central to your tax picture.

Income you’ll report on: 1099-NEC.

Save money

Deductions for general contractors

Most people in this line of work leave money on the table. Here's what we make sure to capture:

  • Subcontractor and labor payments
  • Building materials and job supplies
  • Work truck expenses (actual costs or standard mileage)
  • Tools, equipment, and equipment rental
  • General liability insurance and bonding
  • Licensing, permits, and continuing education
  • Office expenses and job management software
Watch out for

What makes your taxes different

  • If you pay subcontractors, you generally must issue them 1099-NEC forms
  • Materials a client reimburses separately are not also your deduction
  • Equipment expected to last beyond a year may need to be depreciated rather than expensed up front
  • Income earned across state lines can create filing obligations in more than one state
FAQ

Frequently asked questions

Do general contractors pay self-employment tax?

If you earn as an independent contractor, yes — self-employment tax is 15.3% (Social Security and Medicare) on your net profit, on top of regular income tax. You deduct half of it, and every business deduction lowers what you owe. We handle the calculation on Schedule SE.

What can general contractors write off?

Common write-offs include subcontractor and labor payments, building materials and job supplies, work truck expenses (actual costs or standard mileage), tools, equipment, and equipment rental, plus a share of your phone and any home-office use. We go through your year line by line so nothing legitimate gets missed.

Do general contractors need to pay quarterly estimated taxes?

If you expect to owe $1,000 or more for the year, the IRS generally wants quarterly estimated payments to avoid an underpayment penalty. We calculate them so next April isn't a surprise.

Do I have to report income if I didn't get a 1099?

Yes. Your income is taxable whether or not a client or platform sent a 1099. We report it correctly and offset it with every deduction you qualify for.

Taxes handled · so you can get back to work.

Tell us what you've got and we'll come back within one business day with the plan and the price · from a preparer who knows your line of work.

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