THE SUNLIGHT TAX BLOG:
Tax and Money Education for Creative People, Freelancers and Solopreneurs
search A TOPIC
Categories
- Business Management 16
- Creative Specific 3
- Estimated Quarterly Taxes 5
- General Economy; Tax Policy and Legislation 36
- Get to know Hannah Cole 8
- Interviews and personal stories 23
- Personal Finance 17
- Personal and Career Development 16
- Practical and Tactical Tax 54
- Retirement and Future Success 26
- Sunlight Podcast 149
- Tax Deductions for Freelancers and Self-Employed 7
- the Sunlight Tax Podcast 2
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
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
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
Year-End Savings: Business Expenses
Listen and Subscribe Here
Today, I’m continuing my series about year-end tax saving tips and giving you some strategies on how you can maximize your tax deductions as an entrepreneur using business expenses.
Join me in this informative episode to learn how you can prioritize your bookkeeping and accelerate your expenses to make sure you get the most out of your tax deductions this upcoming year.
Listen and Subscribe Here
Today, I’m continuing my series about year-end tax saving tips and giving you some strategies on how you can maximize your tax deductions as an entrepreneur using business expenses.
Join me in this informative episode to learn how you can prioritize your bookkeeping and accelerate your expenses to make sure you get the most out of your tax deductions this upcoming year.
Also mentioned in today’s episode:
The importance of bookkeeping 2:25
Expense acceleration tips 14:14
Year end spending recommendations 21:46
If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review and share it!
Links:
What are your money concerns?
Suggest a blog topic for Hannah here.