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The IRS 943 form is particularly significant for agricultural employers who pay their workers in agricultural operations. It serves as a means for reporting annual payroll taxes specifically related to wages paid to farm employees. This form highlights the employer's responsibilities, ensuring compliance with federal tax regulations. Key information includes total wages paid, the number of employees, and the amount withheld for social security and Medicare taxes. Additionally, the IRS 943 form is notable for its utility in calculating credits for hiring seasonal or temporary agricultural workers. Completing this form accurately is essential for employers to avoid potential penalties, and it plays a crucial role in determining the overall tax obligations tied to farm employment. Understanding the nuances of the IRS 943 form can greatly assist agricultural businesses in fulfilling their tax responsibilities while also recognizing benefits available to them.

IRS 943 Example

Form 943

Employer’s Annual Federal Tax Return for Agricultural Employees

OMB No. 1545-0035

 

 

 

 

 

2019

 

Department of the Treasury

Go to www.irs.gov/Form943 for instructions and the latest information.

 

 

 

Internal Revenue Service

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Name (as distinguished from trade name)

 

Employer identification number (EIN)

 

 

 

 

 

 

Type

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

or

Trade name, if any

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

If address is

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Print

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

different from

 

Address (number and street)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

prior return,

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

check here.

 

 

 

City or town, state or province, country, and ZIP or foreign postal code

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

If you don’t have to file returns in the future, check here

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1

Number of agricultural employees employed in the pay period that includes March 12, 2019 . .

1

 

 

 

 

2

Total wages subject to social security tax

. .

 

2

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3

Social security tax (multiply line 2 by 12.4% (0.124))

3

 

 

 

 

4

Total wages subject to Medicare tax

. .

 

4

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

5

Medicare tax (multiply line 4 by 2.9% (0.029))

5

 

 

 

 

6

Total wages subject to Additional Medicare Tax withholding . .

. .

 

6

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

7

Additional Medicare Tax withholding (multiply line 6 by 0.9% (0.009))

7

 

 

 

 

8

Federal income tax withheld

8

 

 

 

 

9

Total taxes before adjustments. Add lines 3, 5, 7, and 8

9

 

 

 

 

10

Current year’s adjustments

10

 

 

 

 

11

Total taxes after adjustments (line 9 as adjusted by line 10)

11

 

 

 

 

12

Qualified small business payroll tax credit for increasing research activities. Attach Form 8974 . .

12

 

 

 

 

13

Total taxes after adjustments and credits. Subtract line 12 from line 11

13

 

 

 

 

14

Total deposits for 2019, including overpayment applied from a prior year and Form 943-X . . .

14

 

 

 

 

15

Balance due. If line 13 is more than line 14, enter the difference and see the instructions . .

15

 

 

 

 

16

Overpayment. If line 14 is more than line 13, enter the difference $

 

 

 

Check one: Apply to next return.

Send a refund.

All filers: If line 13 is less than $2,500, don’t complete line 17 or Form 943-A.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Semiweekly schedule depositors: Complete Form 943-A and check here

Monthly schedule depositors: Complete line 17 and check here

17Monthly Summary of Federal Tax Liability. (Don’t complete if you were a semiweekly schedule depositor.)

A January . . .

B February . . C March . . .

D April . . . .

E May . . . .

Tax liability for month

F

June . . . .

G

July . . . .

H

August . . .

I

September . .

J

October . . .

Tax liability for month

K November . . .

L December . . .

MTotal liability for year (add lines A

through L) . .

Tax liability for month

Third-

Do you want to allow another person to discuss this return with the IRS? See separate instructions.

 

Yes. Complete the following.

No.

Party

Designee’s

Phone

 

Personal identification

 

 

 

 

 

 

Designee

name

no.

 

number (PIN)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sign

Under penalties of perjury, I declare that I have examined this return, including accompanying schedules and statements, and to the best of my knowledge and

belief, it is true, correct, and complete. Declaration of preparer (other than taxpayer) is based on all information of which preparer has any knowledge.

 

 

Here

Signature

Print Your

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Name and Title

 

 

 

 

 

 

Date

 

 

Paid

Print/Type preparer’s name

Preparer’s signature

Date

 

Check

if

 

PTIN

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

self-employed

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Preparer

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Firm’s name

 

 

 

Firm’s EIN

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Use Only

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Firm’s address

 

 

 

Phone no.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

For Privacy Act and Paperwork Reduction Act Notice, see the separate instructions.

Cat. No. 11252K

 

 

 

 

Form 943 (2019)

Form 943-V, Payment Voucher

Purpose of Form

Complete Form 943-V if you’re making a payment with Form 943. We will use the completed voucher to credit your payment more promptly and accurately, and to improve our service to you.

Making Payments With Form 943

To avoid a penalty, make your payment with your 2019 Form 943 only if:

Your total taxes for the year (Form 943, line 13) are less than $2,500 and you’re paying in full with a timely filed return, or

Specific Instructions

Box 1—Employer identification number (EIN). If you don’t have an EIN, you may apply for one online by visiting the IRS website at www.irs.gov/EIN. You may also apply for an EIN by faxing or mailing Form SS-4 to the IRS. If you haven’t received your EIN by the due date of Form 943, write “Applied For” and the date you applied in this entry space.

Box 2—Amount paid. Enter the amount paid with Form 943.

Box 3—Name and address. Enter your name and address as shown on Form 943.

You’re a monthly schedule depositor making a payment in accordance with the Accuracy of Deposits Rule. See section 7 of Pub. 51 for details. In this case, the amount of your payment may be $2,500 or more.

Otherwise, you must make deposits by electronic funds transfer. See section 7 of Pub. 51 for deposit instructions. Don’t use Form 943-V to make federal tax deposits.

FUse Form 943-V when making any payment with ! Form 943. However, if you pay an amount with

CAUTION Form 943 that should’ve been deposited, you may be subject to a penalty. See Deposit Penalties in section 7 of Pub. 51.

Enclose your check or money order made payable to “United States Treasury.” Be sure to enter your EIN, “Form 943,” and “2019” on your check or money order. Don’t send cash. Don’t staple Form 943-V or your payment to Form 943 (or to each other).

Detach Form 943-V and send it with your payment and Form 943 to the address provided in the Instructions for Form 943.

Note: You must also complete the entity information above line 1 on Form 943.

Detach Here and Mail With Your Payment and Form 943.

Form 943-V

 

 

 

 

Payment Voucher

 

OMB No. 1545-0035

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Department of the Treasury

 

 

 

Don’t staple this voucher or your payment to Form 943.

 

 

2019

Internal Revenue Service

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1 Enter your employer identification number (EIN).

2

 

Enter the amount of your payment . . .

 

 

Dollars

 

Cents

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Make your check or money order payable to “United States Treasury

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3

 

Enter your business name (individual name if sole proprietor).

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Enter your address.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Enter your city or town, state or province, country, and ZIP or foreign postal code.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

File Breakdown

Fact Name Description
Purpose of IRS 943 The IRS 943 form is used by employers to report annual federal income tax withheld from the wages of agricultural workers.
Who Must File Farmers and agricultural employers who pay wages to farm workers and have withheld taxes from those wages must file this form.
Filing Deadline The IRS 943 form is typically due by January 31 of the following year.
Payment Requirements Employers must make appropriate payments throughout the year. These might include quarterly estimated taxes.
State-Specific Considerations Some states require specific forms in addition to the IRS 943. For example, California requires the DE 9 and DE 9C to report wages and taxes for agricultural workers.
Importance of Accurate Reporting Accurate reporting on the IRS 943 helps ensure compliance with federal tax laws and can prevent penalties or audits from the IRS.

Guide to Using IRS 943

Once you have collected the necessary information and documents, you can begin to fill out the IRS 943 form. This process involves entering details regarding your employment, taxes withheld, and other relevant financial information. Careful attention to each section will ensure that your form is filled out accurately.

  1. Begin with your basic information: Enter your name, address, and taxpayer identification number (TIN) at the top of the form.
  2. Fill out the employer's identification number (EIN): Ensure this number matches what the IRS has on file.
  3. Report your agricultural wages: Input the total amount of agricultural wages you paid during the year in the specified section.
  4. Calculate and list federal income tax withheld: Indicate how much federal income tax you withheld from your employee's wages.
  5. Enter Social Security and Medicare wages: Include the wages subject to Social Security and Medicare taxes.
  6. Complete the tax calculation section: Based on the information provided, complete the tax calculations as required on the form.
  7. Review your entries for accuracy: Double-check all figures and information to avoid mistakes.
  8. Sign and date the form: Ensure that the form is signed by the appropriate person before submitting it.

After completing these steps, your IRS 943 form will be ready for submission. Be sure to keep a copy for your records before mailing it to the appropriate IRS address according to the instructions provided on the form.

Get Answers on IRS 943

What is IRS Form 943?

IRS Form 943 is an essential document used by employers in the agricultural sector to report income tax withheld and FICA taxes for their farmworkers. This annual form helps farmers comply with federal tax laws by summarizing their payroll information, including wages paid and taxes withheld, for the year.

Who needs to file Form 943?

Employers who pay wages to farmworkers must file Form 943. Specifically, this applies to those who have employees working in agriculture, such as crop production, raising livestock, or other related activities. If you employ agricultural workers and your payroll exceeds certain thresholds, you are required to complete and submit this form.

When is Form 943 due?

Form 943 is typically due by January 31 of the year following the tax year it covers. For example, for the 2023 tax year, the form must be filed by January 31, 2024. If January 31 falls on a weekend or holiday, the due date is extended to the next business day. Timely submission is crucial to avoid penalties.

What information is required on Form 943?

When completing Form 943, several key pieces of information are required:

  • Your business name and employer identification number (EIN).
  • The total wages paid to agricultural workers.
  • The amount of income tax withheld.
  • The total FICA tax (Social Security and Medicare) owed.
  • Any adjustments for prior years, if necessary.

What are the penalties for not filing Form 943?

Failing to file Form 943 by the deadline can result in substantial penalties. These penalties can vary depending on how late the form is filed and whether you owe taxes. Generally, the IRS imposes a penalty for late filing, which could be up to 5% of the unpaid tax for each month or part of a month that the return is late, up to a maximum of 25%. Additionally, interest may accrue on any unpaid taxes until they are paid in full. To avoid these consequences, timely submission is strongly advised.

Common mistakes

Filling out the IRS 943 form can be challenging. Many people trip over common mistakes that can lead to complications down the line. One frequent error occurs with the employer’s identification number (EIN). Failing to enter the correct EIN not only causes delays but can also result in penalties. Always double-check this critical piece of information.

Another mistake is neglecting to report all wages. If someone forgets to include specific wages paid to seasonal farmworkers, it can lead to inaccuracies in tax calculations. Every bit of information is essential. Ensure all figures are accounted for completely.

People often miss the deadlines for submission. The IRS has strict timelines, and submitting the form late incurs penalties. Mark your calendar well in advance. This proactive measure helps avoid last-minute rushes or forgetfulness.

Using incorrect codes for occupational classifications is a common issue as well. These codes help in determining tax obligations for different types of farm work. Using the wrong code can lead to tax miscalculations that may require additional forms of correction later.

Many also underestimate the importance of signing the form. A signature is critical for validating the information provided. Omitting this could postpone processing and lead to challenges you don’t want to deal with.

Another common blunder is overlooking the importance of reviewing the entire form before submission. Taking the time to go over everything before sending can reveal simple mistakes or oversights that, if left uncorrected, could cause significant problems.

Failure to include all necessary attachments is another area of concern. Some people forget that certain documents must accompany the IRS 943 form. Ensure you are familiar with all requirements and gather the necessary paperwork to avoid this issue.

Lastly, not seeking professional help when needed can be a significant mistake. Tax laws can be complicated. If you’re unsure about certain aspects, consider consulting with a tax professional. Taking this step can save you time and money in the long run.

Documents used along the form

The IRS Form 943 is essential for agricultural employers who need to report income taxes withheld from their employees’ wages. While submitting this form, various other documents are often necessary to ensure accurate reporting and compliance with tax regulations. Below are five important forms and documents that frequently accompany the IRS 943. Understanding these forms is crucial for agricultural businesses managing payroll and tax responsibilities.

  • IRS Form 941: This quarterly form is used by employers to report income taxes, Social Security tax, and Medicare tax withheld from employee wages. Agricultural employers might use it to reflect adjustments for the quarterly reporting cycle.
  • IRS Form W-2: Employers must complete this form to report wages, tips, and other compensation paid to employees. It also reflects the taxes withheld, which must be provided to each employee by the end of January every year.
  • IRS Form W-4: Employees fill out this form to indicate their tax withholding preferences. Accurate completion helps employers withhold the correct amount from employee paychecks, impacting overall reporting on Form 943.
  • IRS Form 1096: This form serves as a summary of all the Forms 1099 and W-2 that an employer sends to the IRS. It is typically required when filing information returns and ensures all reported compensation is accounted for.
  • IRS Form 940: Employers use this annual form to report and pay Federal Unemployment Tax (FUTA). This tax supports unemployment benefits for workers, making it important for a comprehensive understanding of payroll obligations.

Collectively, these forms and documents work together, ensuring that agricultural businesses meet their tax obligations effectively. By understanding each of these components, employers can maintain compliance while minimizing errors in reporting to the IRS.

Similar forms

The IRS Form 943 is used primarily by agricultural employers to report income taxes withheld from employees and the employer's share of Social Security and Medicare taxes. It has certain similarities with other IRS forms designed for reporting various types of employment-related taxes. Below are seven documents that share similarities with Form 943:

  • IRS Form 941: This form is used by most employers to report federal income taxes, Social Security tax, and Medicare tax withheld from employee wages. Like Form 943, it is filed quarterly and helps manage payroll tax responsibilities.
  • IRS Form 944: Designed for smaller employers, this form allows them to report and pay their payroll taxes annually. Though intended for different employer sizes, both Form 944 and Form 943 deal with employee wages and tax withholdings.
  • IRS Form 945: This form is for reporting backup withholding for non-payroll payments, such as interest or dividends. Like Form 943, it ensures proper reporting and payment of withheld taxes, but focuses on different payment types.
  • IRS Form W-2: Employers use this form to report an employee's annual wages and the taxes withheld from them. Both Form W-2 and Form 943 are interconnected, as the information reported on Form 943 influences what is reported on the W-2.
  • IRS Form W-3: This is a summary of all W-2s issued by an employer. Similar to Form 943, it is a crucial part of payroll tax reporting and must be submitted along with Form W-2 at the end of the year.
  • IRS Schedule H: This schedule is used to report household employment taxes. Like Form 943, it helps ensure that proper taxes are paid on wages for domestic workers, but it targets a different type of employer.
  • IRS Form 1099-MISC: This form reports payments made to non-employees, such as independent contractors. Similar to Form 943, it pertains to income and tax reporting but serves a different audience and reporting situation.

Dos and Don'ts

  • Do make sure to double-check your employer identification number (EIN). This number is essential for processing the form correctly.
  • Do report all eligible wages and tips accurately. Ensure that the amounts match your payroll records.
  • Do verify the tax year you are reporting. Using the wrong year can lead to delays or penalties.
  • Do keep a copy of the completed form for your records. This is helpful for future reference or in case of an audit.
  • Don’t leave any required fields blank. Complete all sections to avoid processing delays.
  • Don’t mix up federal and state tax withholdings. They are different and should be reported separately.
  • Don’t forget to sign and date the form. An unsigned form is not valid.
  • Don’t miss the filing deadline. Late submissions can incur penalties and interest.

Misconceptions

The IRS 943 form is essential for agricultural employers, but misconceptions about it can lead to mistakes. Here are ten of those misconceptions, clarified to help better understand the form's purpose and requirements.

  1. It is only for large agricultural businesses. Many believe that only large farms need to file the IRS 943 form. In reality, any agricultural employer that pays $2,500 or more in wages to farmworkers must file.
  2. You can file it anytime during the year. Some think the IRS 943 can be filed at their convenience. However, it has a specific deadline. It is due on January 31 of the year following the tax year for which it is filed, which is critical to remember.
  3. The IRS 943 is the same as the IRS 941. While both forms report employment taxes, they serve different purposes. The 943 specifically pertains to agricultural wages, whereas the 941 covers general employment. Each has unique requirements and deadlines.
  4. No records are needed if you file electronically. Some employers assume that filing electronically removes the need for keeping records. In fact, maintaining accurate records is crucial, regardless of the filing method.
  5. You can ignore paid sick leave when reporting. Some employers mistakenly exclude paid sick leave from their calculations. All wages paid must be reported, including sick leave and other benefits.
  6. This form does not affect employee taxes. Many believe that filing the IRS 943 has no impact on employee taxes. However, the information reported directly influences the Social Security and Medicare taxes withheld from employees’ wages.
  7. Farmers cannot claim any tax credits with this form. Some think that the IRS 943 prohibits claiming tax credits. In truth, agricultural employers may qualify for various credits, provided they meet the requirements.
  8. You need an attorney to file the IRS 943. It is often assumed that legal representation is necessary. While consulting a tax advisor may be beneficial, many employers can competently manage the form on their own.
  9. E-filing is not secure. Concerns about online security may lead some to avoid e-filing. However, the IRS employs stringent security measures to protect taxpayers’ information during electronic filing.
  10. All employees fall under the same reporting requirements. There is a misconception that all farmworkers are treated equally in terms of reporting. In fact, some agricultural employees, like seasonal or occasional workers, may have different reporting obligations.

Understanding these misconceptions can lead to more accurate and compliant filing of the IRS 943 form. Addressing each point can help employers navigate their responsibilities with confidence.

Key takeaways

The IRS Form 943 is specifically designed for agricultural employers to report wages paid to employees and the taxes withheld. Below are key takeaways regarding the form:

  • Eligibility: Only agricultural employers that pay certain wages need to use this form.
  • Filing Frequency: Form 943 must be filed annually, with a deadline typically set for January 31st of the following year.
  • Wage Reporting: Employers must accurately report a total of wages paid and the federal tax withheld for each employee.
  • Payment of Taxes: Taxes owed can be paid through various methods, including EFTPS or by mailing a check along with the form.
  • Signature Requirement: The form requires signatures from an authorized person to verify the accuracy of the provided information.
  • Adjustments: If any corrections to the reported wages are necessary, employers should make those adjustments promptly to avoid penalties.
  • Record Keeping: It is recommended to keep documentation of wages and filed forms for at least four years for audit purposes.