Ahh, yes! Taxes! Everyone must file a tax return. Now that you are a successful travel writer you may be wondering what to do. No worries! You came to the right place! Not only am I a travel writer, but I have an accounting background. I guess my accounting degrees and CPA experience will come in handy. Who knew!

First, if you are going to file your own taxes you can use software such as TurboTax, if you are a citizen of the USA check out IRS E-File, or go to your local CPA. FYI: I used H & R Block to file my 2007 taxes. BIG MISTAKE!! I was very grateful that I did have an accounting background. I had to help them prepare my taxes because I had to file in another state! If you do use H & R Block, proceed with caution!

As a travel writer, the government will classify you as a sole proprietor. You do not have to have a Federal Tax Id number, you can use your social security number. However, if you have employees working for you such as a photographer and or graphic designer, you will need a Federal Tax Id number.

You will want to keep track of items such as hotel, gas mileage, restaurants (if you have a business meeting), flights, and any other expenses. Keep all of your receipts! Even if you do not think you will need them, keep them. Ok…

I found this article called Taxes For Writers. It gives you a good overview of taxes. Give it a read! Unless you prefer to go to your local library and check out all of their books on tax laws. The choice is yours!

For writers outside of the USA, you may want to visit HM Revenue & Customs. This is a UK site! I “skimmed” the site but will go back for a more “in depth” look at it.

Tax Tips For Writers and Authors is another article that gives you a great overview. The article speaks about setting up a LLC (Limited Liability Company) and electing an S (sub chapter) Corporation status.

OMG! My head hurts! Now I know why accounting was not for me. Thank goodness for CPAs! Good Luck!

Namasté,
~ Rebecca