Taxes for the self-employed
Night Ledger prepares returns for sole proprietors, independent contractors and gig workers, from 4 PM to 2 AM Pacific, Monday through Saturday, and seven days a week during tax season.
Can you do my taxes if I’m self-employed?
Yes. If you work for yourself, report income on a 1099-NEC or 1099-K, or run a business as a sole proprietor or single-member LLC, your business income and expenses go on Schedule C of your personal return. An Enrolled Agent prepares and reviews it.
Self-employed people usually have the hardest time finding time for their taxes. Your working day is someone else’s office hours, which is why we keep ours in the evening.
What’s different about taxes when you’re self-employed?
- Self-employment tax. There’s no employer withholding Social Security and Medicare for you, so you pay both halves yourself through self-employment tax.
- Estimated payments. Without withholding, the IRS generally expects tax to be paid through the year in quarterly estimated payments, due around April 15, June 15, September 15 and January 15.
- Business expenses. Ordinary and necessary costs of running your business are generally deductible. Good records make the difference.
- More than one income stream. Plenty of people have a job and side work. Both belong on the same return.
What should I keep for my return?
- Every 1099 you received, and your own record of income that didn’t come with one
- Receipts or statements for business expenses
- Mileage records, if you use your car for work
- The dates and amounts of any estimated payments you made
- Last year’s return
If your business is an S corporation or partnership, it files its own return. See business tax returns. If you’d like help planning your estimated payments before the year ends, see tax advisory.
When can I book?
Appointments open soon. They will run from 4 PM to 2 AM Pacific, Monday through Saturday. During tax season, appointments are available seven days a week. In the meantime, our FAQ answers the questions people ask most.