Business owners: Beware of a new filing deadline for 2017.

Most small business owners and sole proprietors who have employees file their own employment and other tax returns.  This article is especially for you.  In the past employers have been required to issue W-2 forms to their employees by January 31 for the preparation of their personal income taxes.  However, they did not have to file copies of the W-2 and the W-3 form with the Social Security Administration until the last day of February.  However, effective January 1, 2017, the regulations have changed.  The business owner still has to issue W-2s to has employees by January 31, but now he must also issue the W-3 and accompanying forms to the Social Security Administration by January 31.  This will place a greater burden on some, but do not let this deadline pass because you will be charged penalties if you do not comply.