THE SUNLIGHT TAX BLOG:
Tax and Money Education for Creative People, Freelancers and Solopreneurs
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The Shockingly Simple Math of Making Your Taxes Easier
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In this episode of the Sunlight Tax podcast, I talk about something that can feel overwhelming for a lot of us: taxes and bookkeeping, especially if you're a self-employed person. I share why having a positive mindset around money stuff really matters and how it can actually make tax season a lot less stressful.
I also introduce my new workbook, which is designed to help you move past some of those mindset blocks that can make dealing with taxes feel so heavy. Throughout our chat, I offer practical tips, like why it’s so important to have a separate bank account for your business, and how setting up just a few basic expense categories can make a big difference in staying organized.
In this episode of the Sunlight Tax podcast, I talk about something that can feel overwhelming for a lot of us: taxes and bookkeeping, especially if you're a self-employed person. I share why having a positive mindset around money stuff really matters and how it can actually make tax season a lot less stressful.
I also introduce my new workbook, which is designed to help you move past some of those mindset blocks that can make dealing with taxes feel so heavy. Throughout our chat, I offer practical tips, like why it’s so important to have a separate bank account for your business, and how setting up just a few basic expense categories can make a big difference in staying organized.
Join me in this episode and feel empowered to take small, proactive steps with your finances so you can ditch the stress and focus on the creative work you love.
Also mentioned in today’s episode:
Takeaways
The mindset around taxes can significantly impact financial management.
Bookkeeping should be done consistently throughout the year.
Procrastination in bookkeeping leads to increased stress at tax time.
Having a separate business bank account simplifies financial tracking.
Every transaction needs to be categorized for accurate tax reporting.
Doing any bookkeeping now reduces work at tax time.
Mid-year is a great time to assess your financial organization.
Setting up expense categories can be done easily with a spreadsheet.
A visual guide to tax deductions can help streamline the process.
Taking small steps now can lead to greater financial peace later.
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.
Link to pre-order my workbook, Taxes for Humans: The Workbook
Get your free visual guide to tax deductions
The Child Care Tax Credit
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Today, I’m sharing important details about the Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit particularly focusing on its relevance for parents during the summer months when childcare costs can be significant. I’ll share how you can use it during the summer months when sending your children to summer camp.
I’m also talking about the difference between a tax credit and a tax deduction and why a credit is more beneficial to the taxpayer.
Join me in this episode to learn how you can take advantage of this tax credit and how it can apply to you.
Listen and Subscribe here
Today, I’m sharing important details about the Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit particularly focusing on its relevance for parents during the summer months when childcare costs can be significant. I’ll share how you can use it during the summer months when sending your children to summer camp.
I’m also talking about the difference between a tax credit and a tax deduction and why a credit is more beneficial to the taxpayer.
Join me in this episode to learn how you can take advantage of this tax credit and how it can apply to you.
Also mentioned in today’s episode:
01:08 Understanding the Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit
04:00 Exploring Summer Camp and Tax Benefits
11:00 Eligibility and Application for the Tax Credit
Takeaways
The Child and Dependent Care Tax Credit helps working parents with childcare costs.
This credit is different from the child tax credit.
Summer camp expenses can qualify for the tax credit.
The credit allows for a percentage of childcare expenses to be claimed.
Tax credits are more beneficial than tax deductions.
Eligibility for the credit requires earned income or full-time student status.
Unemployment income does not count as earned income for this credit.
Both spouses must file jointly to claim the credit if married.
It's important to keep records of care providers for tax purposes.
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:
VVRKSHOP, Paddy Johnson: https://www.vvrkshop.art/
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 Counts As Taxable Income
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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
The Mental Load of Financial Fear
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Do you feel overwhelmed, fearful, or even judged when it comes to your taxes and finances?
In today’s episode of the Sunlight Tax Podcast, I’m diving into the mental load of financial fear, specifically the stress that comes with managing taxes, saving for retirement, and planning financially as a self-employed or creative entrepreneur. We'll explore how this hidden anxiety can weigh down your creative energy and limit your impact.
If you’ve ever felt disorganized or anxious about money, tune in to learn practical ways to overcome that fear, get organized, and become financially confident as a creative entrepreneur.
Listen and Subscribe here
Do you feel overwhelmed, fearful, or even judged when it comes to your taxes and finances?
In today’s episode of the Sunlight Tax Podcast, I’m diving into the mental load of financial fear, specifically the stress that comes with managing taxes, saving for retirement, and planning financially as a self-employed or creative entrepreneur. We'll explore how this hidden anxiety can weigh down your creative energy and limit your impact.
If you’ve ever felt disorganized or anxious about money, tune in to learn practical ways to overcome that fear, get organized, and become financially confident as a creative entrepreneur.
Also mentioned in this episode:
01:45 The Mental Load of Taxes
06:51 Overcoming Fear and Anxiety Around Finances
13:25 Building a System for Financial Ease
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?
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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
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