THE SUNLIGHT TAX BLOG:
Tax and Money Education for Creative People, Freelancers and Solopreneurs
search A TOPIC
Categories
- Business Management 17
- Creative Specific 3
- Estimated Quarterly Taxes 5
- General Economy; Tax Policy and Legislation 39
- Get to know Hannah Cole 8
- Interviews and personal stories 25
- Personal Finance 19
- Personal and Career Development 17
- Practical and Tactical Tax 54
- Retirement and Future Success 26
- Sunlight Podcast 149
- Tax Deductions for Freelancers and Self-Employed 7
- le 1
- the Sunlight Tax Podcast 12
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
The Right Step at the Right Time (Order of Business Operations: What Comes First?)
Listen and Subscribe Here
In this episode of the Sunlight Tax podcast, I dive into the essentials of choosing the right business structure for anyone in self-employment, especially when it comes to forming an LLC or electing S-Corp status. I highlight why it's important to avoid unnecessary business formations and walk you through the proper order of business operations—reminding you that your business officially begins the moment you start advertising.
I also share practical tax advice, including how different structures impact your taxes, and offer tips on bookkeeping and protecting yourself with liability insurance.
Listen and Subscribe Here
In this episode of the Sunlight Tax podcast, I dive into the essentials of choosing the right business structure for anyone in self-employment, especially when it comes to forming an LLC or electing S-Corp status. I highlight why it's important to avoid unnecessary business formations and walk you through the proper order of business operations—reminding you that your business officially begins the moment you start advertising.
I also share practical tax advice, including how different structures impact your taxes, and offer tips on bookkeeping and protecting yourself with liability insurance. Whether you’re a new entrepreneur or already deep into running your business, this episode will help you assess your needs and make confident decisions about your structure. Understanding your options as a self-employed business owner can save you time, money, and headaches down the road.
Also mentioned in this episode:
00:00 Understanding Business Structures: LLCs and S-Corps
04:02 Order of Operations in Business
09:58 The Role of LLCs in Business
12:20 Understanding S Corporations
19:00 Final Thoughts on Business Structure and Operations
Takeaways
A lot of people form LLCs and S corporations when they're not necessary.
You want to be at the right level at the right time.
Don't take business advice from random people on the internet.
The moment you advertise is when your business starts.
Bookkeeping is a requirement for tracking income and expenses.
An LLC provides liability protection but is not always necessary.
Business liability insurance can be a cost-effective alternative to an LLC.
You do not need an S corporation until you reach a certain profit threshold.
Forming an S corporation too early can lead to unnecessary expenses.
Consult with professionals to understand local regulations regarding S-Corps.
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 Small Business Bookkeeping is Actually For
Listen and Subscribe Here
In this episode, I’m diving into the essentials of bookkeeping specifically for small business owners who want to take control of their finances without the overwhelm. I break down accounting basics like the difference between financial accounting and tax accounting, and I explain when (and if) you actually need audited financial statements. We’ll talk about how to simplify your DIY bookkeeping process, stay on top of your taxes, and make tax preparation less stressful.
If you're a small business owner, freelancer, or creative entrepreneur looking for practical tips on bookkeeping, taxes, and staying organized, this episode is packed with everything you need to build confidence and clarity around your money.
Listen and Subscribe Here
In this episode, I’m diving into the essentials of bookkeeping specifically for small business owners who want to take control of their finances without the overwhelm. I break down accounting basics like the difference between financial accounting and tax accounting, and I explain when (and if) you actually need audited financial statements. We’ll talk about how to simplify your DIY bookkeeping process, stay on top of your taxes, and make tax preparation less stressful.
If you're a small business owner, freelancer, or creative entrepreneur looking for practical tips on bookkeeping, taxes, and staying organized, this episode is packed with everything you need to build confidence and clarity around your money.
00:00 Understanding Bookkeeping for Small Businesses
00:52 The Role of Bookkeeping in Small Business
13:14 Navigating Tax Accounting vs. Financial Accounting
16:34 Creating a Simple Spreadsheet System
19:23 Tracking Deductions and Expenses Effectively
22:41 Building a Sustainable Financial Future
Takeaways
Bookkeeping does not need to be complicated for micro businesses.
Understanding the purpose of bookkeeping can simplify your process.
Most small businesses do not need audited financials.
Key reasons for bookkeeping include knowing profit and tax predictions.
Double entry bookkeeping can be confusing without training.
Tracking expenses in a simple way can save time at tax time.
DIY bookkeeping is possible with the right resources.
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.
LLC Myths: The Truth About LLCs and Taxes
Listen and Subscribe Here
In this episode of the Sunlight Podcast, I’m unpacking some of the biggest myths I hear about forming an LLC. If you're self-employed or thinking about business formation, it's so important to understand what an LLC really is—and what it isn't. I talk through common misconceptions about taxes, liability protection, whether an LLC makes you a “real” legal entity, and how much ongoing accounting or paperwork is actually needed.
I also share why business insurance is still essential (yes, even if you have an LLC), and how good financial advice can help you make smart choices for your business. Plus, I give a sneak peek at my upcoming book, Taxes for Humans, where I go even deeper into LLCs, business structures, and all the stuff no one teaches you when you become self-employed.
Listen and Subscribe Here
In this episode of the Sunlight Podcast, I’m unpacking some of the biggest myths I hear about forming an LLC. If you're self-employed or thinking about business formation, it's so important to understand what an LLC really is—and what it isn't. I talk through common misconceptions about taxes, liability protection, whether an LLC makes you a “real” legal entity, and how much ongoing accounting or paperwork is actually needed.
I also share why business insurance is still essential (yes, even if you have an LLC), and how good financial advice can help you make smart choices for your business. Plus, I give a sneak peek at my upcoming book, Taxes for Humans, where I go even deeper into LLCs, business structures, and all the stuff no one teaches you when you become self-employed.
00:00 Introduction to LLC Myths
04:43 Myth 1: LLCs Change Your Taxes
08:28 Myth 2: LLCs Make Your Business Official
10:25 Myth 3: LLCs Are the Only Protection
13:12 Myth 4: LLCs Are Set It and Forget It
17:19 Final Thoughts and My Book, Taxes for Humans
Takeaways
LLCs do not change your taxes; they are a legal entity.
Your business is official when you have a profit motive, not an LLC.
LLCs provide liability protection but are not the only option.
Business liability insurance can also protect your business.
Maintaining an LLC requires annual fees and updates.
Accounting practices are essential to uphold LLC protections.
Don't rely on friends' advice about LLCs; understand your own needs.
Pre-orders for books are crucial for their success.
An LLC is a flexible entity that allows various tax options.
Separate business and personal accounts are mandatory for LLCs.
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.
My On-demand class: Make Taxes Easier and Stash an Extra $152k in Your Savings
My #1 Tip After Filing Your Taxes
Listen and Subscribe Here
In today’s episode of the Sunlight Podcast, I’m sharing why it’s so important to review your tax return—even after you’ve filed. We’ll also chat about the power of taking a digital detox during the busy tax season to help you reset and recharge.
I’ll walk you through how to understand the key sections of your tax return, what tax estimates really mean, and how to reconcile what you owed with what you paid.
Plus, I’m offering some simple, practical strategies for adjusting your future payments if your income changes—so you can feel more confident, prepared, and in control come tax time. Whether you’re self-employed or just trying to make sense of your finances, this episode is here to support you!
Listen and Subscribe Here
In today’s episode of the Sunlight Podcast, I’m sharing why it’s so important to review your tax return—even after you’ve filed. We’ll also chat about the power of taking a digital detox during the busy tax season to help you reset and recharge.
I’ll walk you through how to understand the key sections of your tax return, what tax estimates really mean, and how to reconcile what you owed with what you paid.
Plus, I’m offering some simple, practical strategies for adjusting your future payments if your income changes—so you can feel more confident, prepared, and in control come tax time. Whether you’re self-employed or just trying to make sense of your finances, this episode is here to support you!
Also mentioned in today’s episode:
00:00 Digital Detox: A Refreshing Break
02:02 Post-Tax Filing: Key Steps for Improvement
07:16 Understanding Your Tax Return: Key Insights
12:07 Adjusting for Future Taxes: Strategies for Success
15:43 Resources for Tax Management: Programs and Support
Takeaways
Reviewing your tax return is crucial for financial planning.
Understanding your tax return helps avoid future whammies.
Taxes are retroactive; you only know your tax rate after the year ends.
Your total tax owed is reconciled with what you've paid throughout the year.
Aim to have your tax payments equal your total tax owed.
Adjust your estimated taxes based on income fluctuations.
Self-employed individuals must be proactive with tax payments.
Utilizing tax programs can simplify the filing process.
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.
My On-demand class: Make Taxes Easier and Stash an Extra $152k in Your Savings
Check out my program, Money Bootcamp
Sunlight Podcast Episodes about Quarterly Taxes:
What are your money concerns?
Suggest a blog topic for Hannah here.