The Ultimate Freelance Tax Checklist for 2024
Last Updated: June 23, 2024
Tax season can feel overwhelming for freelancers, but it doesn't have to be. We've created this comprehensive checklist to help you prepare your taxes with confidence. Whether you're a seasoned freelancer or just starting out, this guide will walk you through everything you need to do, step by step.
Key Dates for 2024
Quarterly Tax Deadlines
- Q1 (Jan-Mar): April 15, 2024
- Q2 (Apr-Jun): June 17, 2024
- Q3 (Jul-Sep): September 16, 2024
- Q4 (Oct-Dec): January 15, 2025
Other Important Dates
- 1099-NEC Due from Clients: January 31, 2024
- Tax Return Due: April 15, 2024
- Extension Deadline: October 15, 2024
⚡ Quick Tip
Set calendar reminders for these dates now! Use FreeTaxUSA to automatically calculate your quarterly payments and get email reminders before each deadline.
Essential Documents Checklist
Income Documents
- All 1099-NEC forms
- Payment processor statements
- Bank statements
- Income spreadsheet
- Client payment records
Expense Records
- Business receipts
- Home office measurements
- Vehicle mileage log
- Equipment purchases
- Software subscriptions
Tax Documents
- Last year's tax return
- Quarterly payment records
- Business formation docs
- EIN documentation
- State tax forms
📱 Document Organization Tip
Use the Amex Blue Business Card to automatically categorize expenses and get year-end summaries. Plus, earn cash back on business purchases and get built-in receipt management.
Pre-Tax Season Preparation
3-6 Months Before
- Review year-to-date income
- Organize digital receipts
- Update mileage records
- Calculate estimated Q4 payment
- Schedule tax pro consultation
1 Month Before
- Chase missing 1099s
- Reconcile bank statements
- Total up categories of expenses
- Gather tax documents
- Review deduction eligibility
💰 Maximize Your Return
Consider opening a Solo 401(k) with Solo401k.com before December 31st to reduce your taxable income. You can contribute up to $69,000 for 2024.
Common Deductions Checklist
Home Office
- Square footage used
- Utilities percentage
- Internet costs
- Home insurance portion
- Repairs and maintenance
Business Expenses
- Software subscriptions
- Professional development
- Marketing costs
- Office supplies
- Professional services
Health & Retirement
- Health insurance premiums
- HSA contributions
- Solo 401(k) deposits
- SEP IRA contributions
- Professional insurance
🏥 Healthcare Savings Tip
Open an HSA with Lively HSA to deduct up to $4,150 (individual) or $8,300 (family) in 2024. Their platform makes it easy to track qualified medical expenses.