THE SUNLIGHT TAX BLOG:
Tax and Money Education for Creative People, Freelancers and Solopreneurs
search A TOPIC
Categories
- Business Management 19
- Creative Specific 3
- Estimated Quarterly Taxes 7
- General Economy; Tax Policy and Legislation 49
- Get to know Hannah Cole 8
- Interviews and personal stories 29
- Personal Finance 25
- Personal and Career Development 20
- Practical and Tactical Tax 57
- Retirement and Future Success 27
- Sunlight Podcast 149
- Tax Deductions for Freelancers and Self-Employed 8
- the Sunlight Tax Podcast 45
What Makes Your Business “Official?”
Listen and Subscribe Here
In this episode of the Sunlight Tax podcast, I share how solo business owners can set up or tune up their businesses to create legal protection, stay compliant with taxes, and actually feel at ease. I walk through what makes a business “official” in the eyes of the IRS and break it down in a simple, practical way.
I’m also introducing an upcoming workshop called “Set-up or tune up your business” designed to help you get your business organized and set up the right way.
Listen and Subscribe Here
In this episode of the Sunlight Tax podcast, I share how solo business owners can set up or tune up their businesses to create legal protection, stay compliant with taxes, and actually feel at ease. I walk through what makes a business “official” in the eyes of the IRS and break it down in a simple, practical way.
I’m also introducing an upcoming workshop called “Set-up or tune up your business” designed to help you get your business organized and set up the right way.
Also mentioned in today’s episode:
00:00 Embracing the Human Element in Teaching
03:11 Navigating Business Setup and Legal Essentials
05:48 Understanding Tax Obligations and Business Protections
If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review and share it! Every review makes a difference by telling Apple or Spotify to show the Sunlight Tax podcast to new audiences.
Links:
Sign up for theSetting Up (or Tuning Up) Your Business Workshop
Get my Tax Help onSubstack.
Get your FREE visual guide to tax deductions
Order my book: Taxes for Humans: Simplify Your Taxes and Change the World When You’re Self-Employed
Change is Coming: How I Use the Feedback Loop to Shift My Business
Listen and Subscribe Here
In this episode of the Sunlight Tax Podcast, I take you behind the scenes of a challenging season in my business and share what it really looks like to navigate change as an entrepreneur. I share insights on the power of feedback, confronting financial realities, and the critical shift from simply learning about taxes and business to taking actionable steps that drive real results.
I also introduce new workshops and community-building initiatives designed to make learning tangible, supportive, and actionable. If you’re a small business owner, creative, or entrepreneur looking to grow with confidence and clarity, this episode shows how to shift from overwhelm to empowered action.
Listen and Subscribe Here
In this episode of the Sunlight Tax Podcast, I take you behind the scenes of a challenging season in my business and share what it really looks like to navigate change as an entrepreneur. I share insights on the power of feedback, confronting financial realities, and the critical shift from simply learning about taxes and business to taking actionable steps that drive real results.
I also introduce new workshops and community-building initiatives designed to make learning tangible, supportive, and actionable. If you’re a small business owner, creative, or entrepreneur looking to grow with confidence and clarity, this episode shows how to shift from overwhelm to empowered action.
Also mentioned in today’s episode:
01:00 Navigating Difficult Times in Business
09:37 Embracing Change and Taking Action
17:56 Building Community and Future Workshops
If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review and share it!
Every review makes a difference by telling Apple or Spotify to show the Sunlight Tax podcast to new audiences.
Links:
Join my Free Class on 3/4: Make Money Easier, Starting With Taxes
Order my book, Taxes for Humans: Simplify Your Taxes and Change the World When You’re Self-Employed
Check out my program, Money Bootcamp
What Counts As Taxable Income
Listen and Subscribe Here
It’s easy to get confused when it comes to figuring out what you need to report as income on your tax return.
Today, I’m going over some of the most common ways to receive money as an entrepreneur and talking about what actually counts as income in your business so you can be prepared for your taxes.
Join me in this episode to learn more about determining your total income and how you can make sure you report it correctly to the IRS.
Listen and Subscribe Here
It’s easy to get confused when it comes to figuring out what you need to report as income on your tax return.
Today, I’m going over some of the most common ways to receive money as an entrepreneur and talking about what actually counts as income in your business so you can be prepared for your taxes.
Join me in this episode to learn more about determining your total income and how you can make sure you report it correctly to the IRS.
Also mentioned in this episode:
00:00 Understanding Tax Obligations for Self-Employed Individuals
10:36 What Counts as Income: Key Definitions and Examples
16:39 Clarifying Non-Taxable Income: Gifts, Loans, and More
Takeaways
You must report all income derived from your business activities.
Grants received are considered taxable income unless proven otherwise.
Cash income must be reported, regardless of the amount.
Reimbursements for personal expenses do not count as income.
Gifts are not taxable income if no service is exchanged.
Business loans are not considered taxable income.
Moving money between personal and business accounts does not count as income.
The IRS focuses on who holds the money when determining tax obligations.
Income generated from business operations is generally taxable.
If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review and share it!
Every review makes a difference by telling Apple or Spotify to show the Sunlight Tax podcast to new audiences.
Links:
Link to pre-order my book, Taxes for Humans: Simplify Your Taxes and Change the World When You’re Self-Employed.
Get your free visual guide to tax deductions
When Do You Actually Need an Accountant?
Listen and Subscribe Here
In this episode of the Sunlight Tax Podcast, I share when it makes sense to hire a professional accountant versus handling your taxes on your own, and why understanding your taxes is so important, especially during life changes like getting married, relocating, or experiencing major income shifts.
I dive into essential tax planning strategies for creative entrepreneurs, freelancers, and small business owners. I also break down complex tax situations that often require expert guidance, and explore the pros and cons of using tax software versus working with a tax professional.
Listen and Subscribe Here
In this episode of the Sunlight Tax Podcast, I share when it makes sense to hire a professional accountant versus handling your taxes on your own, and why understanding your taxes is so important, especially during life changes like getting married, relocating, or experiencing major income shifts.
I dive into essential tax planning strategies for creative entrepreneurs, freelancers, and small business owners. I also break down complex tax situations that often require expert guidance, and explore the pros and cons of using tax software versus working with a tax professional.
Also mentioned in this episode:
00:00 Understanding the Importance of Tax Planning
00:49 When to Hire an Accountant vs. DIY Taxes
05:20 Life Changes and Financial Shifts
11:13 The Value of Tax Planning
15:39 Complex Situations Requiring Professional Help
21:40 Strategic Decisions and Consulting an Accountant
26:28 Empowerment Through Tax Education
Takeaways
Even a couple hours of an accountant's time can save you money.
There is no tax education in this country, which complicates things.
Basic education in taxes can empower you to handle them yourself.
Big life changes are a good time to consult with an accountant.
Tax planning can save you a lot of money and headache.
Consult a professional before significant financial decisions.
Tax returns typically do not include tax planning services.
Year-end tax planning is crucial for maximizing savings.
Understanding your taxes is important for financial literacy.
Using software like TurboTax can be effective if you know the rules.
If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review and share it!
Every review makes a difference by telling Apple or Spotify to show the Sunlight Tax podcast to new audiences.
Links:
Link to pre-order my book, Taxes for Humans: Simplify Your Taxes and Change the World When You’re Self-Employed.
Get your free visual guide to tax deductions
Is It Time to Form An S Corp?
Listen and Subscribe Here
In this episode, I break down the essentials of self-employment tax and explore how forming an S Corporation can unlock valuable tax benefits. I walk through key tax strategies, what makes an S Corp worth considering, and why understanding state regulations matters for self-employed entrepreneurs like us.
I also highlight how strong bookkeeping, proper payroll, and strategic financial planning help protect your business income and maximize your tax return. If you’re navigating entrepreneurship and want to keep more of what you earn, this episode offers practical, real-world guidance.
Listen and Subscribe Here
In this episode, I break down the essentials of self-employment tax and explore how forming an S Corporation can unlock valuable tax benefits. I walk through key tax strategies, what makes an S Corp worth considering, and why understanding state regulations matters for self-employed entrepreneurs like us.
I also highlight how strong bookkeeping, proper payroll, and strategic financial planning help protect your business income and maximize your tax return. If you’re navigating entrepreneurship and want to keep more of what you earn, this episode offers practical, real-world guidance.
Also mentioned in this episode:
00:00 Understanding Self-Employment Tax
03:25 The Benefits and Risks of S Corporations
06:20 Criteria for Forming an S Corporation
11:55 Navigating State Regulations and Compliance
Takeaways
Self-employment tax is 15.3% for self-employed individuals.
An S Corporation can help save on self-employment taxes if criteria are met.
Forming an S Corp requires running payroll and compliance with employment laws.
You cannot undo an S Corp election for five years.
Check state regulations as some may tax back S Corp benefits.
Consistent profit over $60,000 is a key criterion for forming an S Corp.
Bookkeeping is essential when operating as an S Corp.
Having more money than time indicates readiness for an S Corp.
Professional guidance is crucial when forming an S Corp.
Be cautious of advice from unlicensed sources regarding taxes.
If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review and share it!
Every review makes a difference by telling Apple or Spotify to show the Sunlight podcast to new audiences.
Links:
Link to pre-order my book, Taxes for Humans: Simplify Your Taxes and Change the World When You’re Self-Employed.
Get your free visual guide to tax deductions
What are your money concerns?
Suggest a blog topic for Hannah here.