When completing Schedule C (Profit or Loss from Business), you must choose a Principal Business Code that best describes the type of business you're reporting. This code helps the IRS categorize your business activity.
You can find the list of business codes by clicking the appropriate button in the Basic Information section of Schedule C.
Schedule C Navigation
This section can be found by going to:
- Federal
- Income
- Profit or Loss From Business
- Basic Information About Your Business
If you have more than one business, a separate Schedule C code must be created for each one.
What business code should I use for my business?
Please refer to the complete list of Business Codes which can be found on pages 17-18 of the Schedule C.
What if my business doesn't fit any code?
If your business doesn’t clearly fit into any of the listed Schedule C business codes, the IRS allows you to use a default code: 999999. This code is designated for “unclassified establishments” and can be used when no other code accurately describes your business activity.
However, it's best to use this code only as a last resort. Before doing so, try to:
- Review the full list of business codes in the Schedule C instructions.
- Choose the code that most closely matches your primary business activity, even if it’s not a perfect fit.