Franchise & Excise Tax Tennessee Department of Revenue Form

What is the Tennessee Franchise and Excise Tax?

The Tennessee Franchise and Excise Tax is a state-level tax imposed on businesses operating within Tennessee. This tax comprises two parts: the franchise tax, which is based on the net worth of the business, and the excise tax, which is based on the net earnings. The Tennessee Department of Revenue administers this tax, and it applies to various business entities, including corporations, limited liability companies (LLCs), and partnerships. Understanding this tax is crucial for compliance and financial planning for businesses in Tennessee.

Steps to Complete the Tennessee Franchise Excise Tax Return

Completing the Tennessee Franchise Excise Tax Return involves several key steps:

• Gather necessary financial documents, including income statements and balance sheets.
• Calculate your franchise tax based on the business's net worth and the excise tax based on net earnings.
• Fill out the FAE 170 form, ensuring all required information is accurate and complete.
• Review the form for any errors or omissions before submission.
• Submit the completed form to the Tennessee Department of Revenue by the specified deadline.

Filing Deadlines for the Franchise Excise Tax Return

It is essential for businesses to be aware of the filing deadlines associated with the Tennessee Franchise Excise Tax Return. Typically, the return is due on the fifteenth day of the fourth month following the end of the business’s fiscal year. For most businesses operating on a calendar year, this means the return is due by April 15. Late submissions may incur penalties, so timely filing is critical.

Required Documents for the Franchise Excise Tax Return

When preparing to file the Tennessee Franchise Excise Tax Return, businesses need to gather specific documents:

• Financial statements, including profit and loss statements and balance sheets.
• Records of any previous tax payments made.
• Documentation of any deductions or credits claimed.
• Any relevant supporting documents that substantiate reported figures.

Form Submission Methods for the Franchise Excise Tax Return

Businesses can submit the Tennessee Franchise Excise Tax Return using various methods:

• Online submission through the Tennessee Department of Revenue’s e-filing system.
• Mailing a paper copy of the completed FAE 170 form to the appropriate address.
• In-person submission at designated Department of Revenue offices.

Penalties for Non-Compliance with the Franchise Excise Tax

Failure to comply with the filing requirements for the Tennessee Franchise Excise Tax can result in significant penalties. These may include:

• Late filing penalties, which can accumulate over time.
• Interest on any unpaid taxes, increasing the total amount owed.
• Potential legal action for persistent non-compliance.

Eligibility Criteria for the Franchise Excise Tax

Not all businesses are subject to the Tennessee Franchise Excise Tax. Eligibility criteria include:

• Operating as a corporation, LLC, or partnership within Tennessee.
• Generating income or having a physical presence in the state.
• Meeting the minimum thresholds for net worth and earnings as defined by state law.