Small Business Taxes

Tax Tips for Consultants and Freelancers

Updated 2025-10-28

Practical tax guidance for consultants and freelancers: deductions, estimated taxes, retirement plans, and client contract considerations.

  1. Tracking income & 1099s
  2. High‑impact deductions
  3. Estimated taxes & cash flow
  4. Retirement plans for solos
  5. Contract clauses to help taxes

Tracking income & 1099s

Use separate business accounts. Save all platform statements and 1099s; reconcile to invoices.

High‑impact deductions

Estimated taxes & cash flow

Set aside a percent of each payment for taxes; align quarterly deposits with your billing cycle.

Retirement plans for solos

Consider Solo 401(k) or SEP depending on income and admin preference.

Contract clauses

Late‑fee, expense reimbursement, and milestone billing terms can stabilize cash flow and taxes.