Everyone knows business owners hate tax filing season due to the various complexities involved in the process. However, the system is not so easy for freelancers too. If you are a freelancer, you can set yourself up for a stress-free tax season by following the appropriate measures. It is recommended to work with a CPA in Southwest Florida as well. 

Freelancers are not considered workers but contractors. Instead of filing taxes once a year, they are required to pay throughout the year. You are responsible for paying taxes to the appropriate tax authorities- local, state, and federal income taxes. You must make quarterly payments throughout the year, or else you may owe a lot of money at once. 

Tax-saving tips for freelancers 

• Keep accurate income records. 

As a freelancer, you must report your income from each project you get paid for to comply with the tax regulations. If you have multiple income streams, you must track and document them all. For example, you may earn through selling digital art as well as making videos on YouTube. You can use specialized income-tracking software for freelancers. By maintaining records, you can be sure that you have filed your tax returns properly. 

• File returns on time.

Checking your income tax slab and filing your returns on time is crucial to avoid paying penalty fines. Even if you end up paying more than your scale, you can still file for a refund and get your money back. However, filing late can cause you to lose money in the long run. 

• Pay quarterly estimated taxes. 

If your income is at the level where you are expected to pay at least $1000 in taxes, you must pay quarterly estimated taxes. Maintaining records of your income and expenses and using good tax preparation software may be useful in this situation. Paying your quarterly estimated taxes is recommended to remain on top of your tax obligations and avoid fines. 

• Automate your savings. 

For many people, it is not easy to remember to save for their estimated tax payments. Even when they save, they end up spending the money impulsively on something they want, such as a new phone. The best solution to this problem is automating your savings. Create a separate bank account and keep your tax savings money there. 

Having separate accounts for savings and current expenses can help you avoid spending money you cannot afford to spend. When you need to pay taxes, the money will already be in your savings account.