Self-Employed – It’s Tax Time!

Naturally if you owe money it is not your favorite time of year and if you are owed money you can’t wait to file. You can file any time after January up until April 15. Actually if self-employed you are expected to file quarterly estimated taxes. What you may not realize is you can get around this by paying a small fine each year. Some people would rather have the money on hand for emergencies and don’t mind the fine. Probably best if you can pay quarterly as you always want to save money wherever you can.

You would need to file form 1040 with Schedule A to itemize deductions. You also need to include schedule SE for the special tax they have for self-employed people. Then there is Form 8829 for use of your home for business, with which you can deduct a percentage of expenses such as utilities, rent or mortgage, etc. This all goes with Schedule C, Profit and Loss from Business.

Always consult with the IRS website (irs.gov) to be sure what is required for th