Navigating Freelance Taxation: Essential Tips for New Freelancers in 2024

Embarking on a freelance journey in 2024 could be a transformative career decision, but it comes with its own set of tax challenges for new freelancers.

One key aspect that freelancers need to tackle is self-employment tax, which includes contributions to Social Security and Medicare that salaried employees typically split with their employers. However, when you venture into freelance work, you become solely responsible for covering the costs of this tax.

When self-employed, the income you earn is not subject to withholding taxes like salaried earnings. Therefore, it becomes imperative to make quarterly payments to the IRS to fulfill your tax obligations. It’s advisable to consult with an accountant to calculate and set aside a portion of your income for these payments.

A significant advantage of being self-employed is the ability to claim deductions on business-related expenses. Every purchase made for business purposes, such as a new laptop or internet services, can typically be considered deductible expenses. Establishing a system to track and segregate freelance expenses from personal expenditures is crucial to maximize tax benefits.

Freelancers have a wide array of retirement savings options beyond traditional IRA and 401(k) plans. Retirement plans like SIMPLE IRAs or Solo 401(k)s can provide self-employed individuals with tax advantages and higher contribution limits. Seeking advice from an accountant to determine the most suitable retirement plan based on income and other factors is vital.

Forming a business entity may offer certain tax benefits over operating as a sole proprietor. For instance, an S-Corp structure allows freelancers to draw a salary subject to self-employment taxes while retaining general business profits that are not subjected to the same taxes. However, setting up a business entity requires careful evaluation and expert guidance to choose the most appropriate structure.

Entering the realm of freelance work presents both opportunities and challenges on the taxation front. By addressing these key tax considerations with the assistance of professional guidance, new freelancers can lay a solid foundation for financial success in the evolving landscape of independent work.