Farm Income and Expense - Taxes
Farmers and individuals engaged in agricultural activities must report their farm income and expenses on their federal tax return. The IRS provides specific forms and publications to help taxpayers accurately report farming-related income, deductions, and credits.
Reporting Farm Income and Expenses
- Form 1040 is the primary form for filing individual income tax returns. Farmers must use Schedule F (Form 1040) to report profit or loss from farming.
- Form 4835 is used to report farm rental income and expenses, which may be relevant if you rent out farm land or equipment.
- Income from farming includes cash, crops, livestock, and other agricultural products. Expenses may include seeds, fertilizer, equipment, labor, and utilities.
Key Tax Publications for Farmers
- Publication 225 (Farmer's Tax Guide) provides detailed guidance on how federal tax laws apply to farming operations. It covers topics such as deductions, credits, and recordkeeping requirements.
- Publication 505 (Tax Withholding and Estimated Tax) includes information on estimated tax payments, which may be required for farmers with significant self-employment income.
- Publication 530 (Tax Information for Farmers) offers additional guidance on tax issues specific to farming, including farm-related deductions and credits.
How to Access Forms and Publications
- Visit IRS.gov/Forms to download current and prior-year forms, instructions, and publications.
- Download tax publications and instructions in eBook format from IRS.gov/eBooks for mobile devices.
- For more information on ordering forms or publications, refer to the "How To Get Tax Help" section in IRS publications.
Source:
Farmer's Tax Guide (Publication 225)
Tax Withholding and Estimated Tax (Publication 505)
Tax Information for Farmers (Publication 530)
Disclaimer: Always verify information with the official Federal or State Department of Revenue Forms and Instructions.