So Money with Farnoosh Torabi

1834: Smart Tax Strategies for Creatives and Freelancers

Jun 2, 2025
Hannah Cole, founder of Sunlight Tax and author of the forthcoming Taxes for Humans, is a tax expert who helps creatives and freelancers simplify taxes. She shares stories about overcoming tax shame. Hear clear tips on avoiding tax bill shock, managing quarterly payments, mixing W-2 work with freelance income, and the must-do first step for new freelancers.
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ANECDOTE

Dismissed By An Accountant

  • Hannah Cole was dismissed by her dad's accountant who asked when she'd get a "real job."
  • She redid her taxes herself and found a $4,000 missed deduction proving the accountant hadn't reviewed her records.
INSIGHT

IRS Accepts Good-Faith Efforts

  • The IRS expects humans and accepts good-faith efforts rather than perfection.
  • Deadlines and correctly handling self-employment tax matter far more than tiny calculation differences.
ADVICE

Reserve 40% And Pay Quarterly

  • Set aside roughly 40% of freelance income into a separate savings account to cover taxes.
  • Pay estimated quarterly taxes so each dollar reduces your year-end bill and avoids shocking tax-day surprises.
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