IRS Publication 5801 -Tools & Resources for Small Businesses – Small business owners and self-employed individuals face unique tax challenges, from tracking deadlines to managing payments and staying compliant with ever-changing rules. IRS Publication 5801 (Rev. 4-2025), titled Tools & Resources for Small Businesses, serves as a concise, official one-page guide that points directly to the most important free IRS resources.
Whether you file Schedule C, run a gig economy side hustle, or operate a business with assets under $10 million, this publication delivers quick links to the tools you need to avoid penalties, save time, and stay on top of your taxes. The latest version was revised in April 2025 and remains the go-to reference for 2025–2026 tax seasons.
Download the free PDF here: IRS Publication 5801 (PDF)
What Is IRS Publication 5801?
Publication 5801 is a compact resource created by the IRS specifically for small businesses and self-employed taxpayers. It highlights:
- Core online tax centers
- Deadline-tracking tools
- Secure payment systems
- Ways to receive timely tax updates
It targets filers of Form 1040/1040-SR with Schedules C, E, F, or Form 2106, as well as businesses with assets under $10 million. The guide emphasizes digital-first resources—most available 24/7 on IRS.gov—making it ideal for busy entrepreneurs who prefer self-service options.
Key IRS Tax Resources Highlighted in Publication 5801
1. Small Business and Self-Employed Tax Center (IRS.gov/smallbiz)
This is the central hub for small businesses and self-employed individuals. It offers tailored guidance on:
- Business structures (sole proprietorship, LLC, corporation, etc.)
- Starting and operating a business
- Employment taxes, estimated taxes, and self-employment tax
- Deducting business expenses (including standard mileage rates)
- Filing and paying business taxes
- Industry-specific tax centers (e.g., construction, real estate, gig work)
Popular tools on the page include your Business Tax Account, EIN application, forms and publications, and the Small Business Ombudsman.
Visit: Small Business and Self-Employed Tax Center
2. Gig Economy Tax Center (IRS.gov/gigeconomy)
If you earn income through apps (Uber, DoorDash, Airbnb, Upwork, Etsy, etc.), this center is essential. It explains that all gig income is taxable—even cash, virtual currency, or payments under $600 that may not generate a 1099-K.
Key topics covered:
- Recordkeeping for income and expenses
- Quarterly estimated tax payments
- Self-employment tax
- Worker classification (employee vs. independent contractor)
- Reporting requirements for digital platforms
Visit: Gig Economy Tax Center
3. Employer Identification Number (EIN)
Most businesses need an EIN (also called a Federal Tax ID). Publication 5801 reminds readers that you can apply online in minutes. An EIN is required to open a business bank account, hire employees, or file certain tax returns.
Apply online: IRS.gov/EIN
4. Tax Information for Businesses
The broader Businesses section (IRS.gov/businesses) provides resources on employment taxes, excise taxes, business tax credits, and more. It serves as a gateway for any business topic not covered in the small-business hub.
Must-Use Tools to Stay on Track with Deadlines and Payments
IRS Online Tax Calendar (IRS.gov/taxcalendar)
Never miss a deadline again. This interactive calendar shows:
- Monthly due dates for deposits, filings, and estimated payments
- Filters for monthly depositors, semi-weekly depositors, excise taxes, or general events
- Option to sign up for email reminders
- Ability to import events into Google Calendar, Outlook, or Apple Calendar
Pro tip: Bookmark the quarterly views (First Quarter, Second Quarter, etc.) for quick reference.
Access it here: IRS Tax Calendar
Electronic Federal Tax Payment System (EFTPS)
EFTPS is the free, secure way for businesses to pay federal taxes online or by phone. Benefits include:
- Schedule payments up to 365 days in advance
- 24/7 access from any device
- View 15 months of payment history
- Email notifications and immediate confirmation
- Batch payment option for tax professionals
Note for individuals: New individual enrollments ended in 2025; existing users can continue, but businesses and tax pros should keep using EFTPS.
Enroll or log in: EFTPS.gov or call 800-555-4477.
Learn more: EFTPS overview
Stay Informed: Subscribe to IRS e-News for Small Businesses
Publication 5801 highlights the e-News subscriptions (IRS.gov/subscribe). Choose from targeted newsletters for:
- Small businesses
- Payroll professionals
- Tax professionals
- Specific topics (gig economy, employment taxes, etc.)
These free emails deliver timely updates on law changes, deadlines, and new resources—far more reliable than social media or third-party blogs.
Why Every Small Business Owner Should Use Publication 5801?
- Free and official — Straight from the IRS, no cost, no ads
- Time-saving — One document links to everything you need
- Penalty prevention — Accurate deadlines and payment tools reduce late fees
- Mobile-friendly — All resources work on phones and tablets
- Continuously updated — The 2025 revision reflects current rules
Final Tips for Success
- Bookmark Publication 5801 and the linked centers.
- Set calendar reminders for quarterly estimated taxes (April 15, June 15, September 15, January 15).
- Keep good records — especially if you’re in the gig economy.
- Consider a Business Tax Account on IRS.gov for instant access to transcripts and notices.
Ready to simplify your small business taxes?
Download IRS Publication 5801 today and visit the Small Business and Self-Employed Tax Center. Subscribe to e-News while you’re there.
These free IRS tools are among the most powerful (and underused) resources available to American small business owners. Use them consistently, and you’ll spend less time worrying about taxes and more time growing your business.
Last updated February 2026. Always verify the latest information directly on IRS.gov, as tax rules can change.