What is a Specified Service Trade or Business (SSTB)?
A Specified Service Trade or Business (SSTB) is a type of business that primarily involves the performance of services in fields such as health, law, accounting, financial services, performing arts, and consulting. These businesses are subject to special rules under the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) regarding the deduction for qualified business income (QBI), particularly under Section 199A.
Key Characteristics of an SSTB
- Service-Based Activities: The business must involve services in fields like health, law, accounting, financial services, performing arts, or consulting.
- Exclusion from QBI Deduction: SSTBs are generally not eligible for the 20% QBI deduction unless certain income thresholds are met.
- Income Thresholds: The deduction may be phased out or eliminated for taxpayers with taxable income above certain thresholds (e.g., $250,000 for married filing jointly, $125,000 for single filers).
Reporting SSTB Income
Income from SSTBs must be reported separately on tax forms. For example, Form 1099-PATR requires reporting of SSTB-related items in Box 9. This helps ensure proper application of the QBI deduction rules.
Important Considerations
- SSTBs are not automatically disqualified from the QBI deduction; they may still qualify if the taxpayer’s income is below the phase-out threshold.
- The determination of whether a business is an SSTB depends on the nature of the services provided, not the business structure.
- Taxpayers should consult IRS guidance and use appropriate forms to report SSTB income accurately.
Source:
Form 1099-PATR
Publication 530
Publication 575
Disclaimer: Always verify details with official Federal or State Department of Revenue Forms and Instructions.