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Taxes just the word is enough to make many of us shudder. But what if I told you that understanding Australiau2019s Self-Employed Vs Freelance tax could be the key to putting more money back in your pocket? Originally published on https://taxly.ai/tax-deductions/self-employed-vs-freelance-tax/
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Self Employed Vs Freelance Tax – Key Things to Know Safe & Secure Whether you’re a seasoned local or a newcomer to the Land Down Under, this blog is your guide to understanding your tax responsibilities. In the next few minutes, we’ll break down the self-employed vs freelance tax similarities and differences. www.taxly.ai
Self Employed and Freelance Key Tax Deductions First, let’s see the key deductions for self employed and freelancers in Australia. • Home Office and Workspace Expenses • Business-Related Supplies Expenses • Business-Related Vehicle Use Expenses • Business Travel Costs • Professional Membership and License Fees • Marketing and Advertising Expenses • Home Internet and Phone Costs • Professional Development and Training Expenses www.taxly.ai
Bank Fees for Business Accounts • Business Insurance Premiums • Depreciation of Business Assets • Rent or Lease Payments • Superannuation Contributions • Interest on Business Loans • Meals and Entertainment Expenses • Employee Wages and Super Contributions • Taxation and Accounting Fees • Payments to Subcontractors www.taxly.ai
Self Employed Vs Freelance Tax Implications Australia In Australia, self-employed and freelancers work for themselves independent. But each of these individuals have distinct tax implications according to the guidelines set by the Australian Taxation Office (ATO). Let’s explore the key features and differences between the two: Income Tax What it means: You have to pay tax on the money you earn. Record-Keeping What it means: You need to keep accurate records of your income and expenses. www.taxly.ai
Quarterly Installments What it means: If you expect to owe a substantial amount in taxes, you might need to pay in smaller amounts throughout the year instead of in one lump sum. Medicare Levy What it means: A portion of your income goes toward funding Australia’s healthcare system. Superannuation What it means: You’re responsible for saving for your retirement because you don’t have an employer to contribute to your superannuation fund. www.taxly.ai
Business Structure What it means: The way you legally set up your business affects your taxes and liability. Tax Reporting What it means: You must accurately report your income and expenses on your annual tax return. Capital Gains Tax (CGT) What it means: If you sell assets related to your business, you may be taxed on the profit. www.taxly.ai
Record Keeping What it means: Keep financial records for a specific period as required by the ATO. Self-Employed Vs Freelance Tax Australia – Key Differences Business Structure Self-Employed: Often operate as sole traders, companies, or partnerships, with distinct legal entities. www.taxly.ai
GST (Goods and Services Tax) Self-Employed: Must register for and charge GST on taxable sales if their annual business income exceeds the GST threshold (currently $75,000). They need to submit regular Business Activity Statements (BAS) to the ATO. Long-Term Commitment Self-Employed: Often involves a long-term commitment to running a business, managing employees, and business operations. Business Expenses Self-Employed: Can claim deductions for a wide range of business-related expenses, including rent, utilities, and employee wages. www.taxly.ai
ABN (Australian Business Number) Self-Employed: May or may not have an ABN, as it depends on their business structure and whether they require one for their operations. Tax Reporting Section Self-Employed: Report business income and expenses on their individual tax return using a Business and Professional Items Schedule (Form T2125). Capital Gains Tax (CGT) Self-Employed: May face CGT implications when selling business-related assets, with potential concessions for small business owners. www.taxly.ai
You Qualify as a Freelancer if You Offer Specialized Services Freelancers offer specialized skills or services, often in creative, technical, or professional fields like writing, design, IT, or consulting. Work Independently Freelancers work independently without long-term employment contracts, often juggling multiple clients or projects. Make Contractual Agreements Freelancers use contracts or project agreements that outline work details, payment terms, and deadlines. www.taxly.ai
Key Traits of Qualifying as Self-Employed Individual: Independant Business Operations Self-employed individuals run their own businesses, which can take various forms, like sole traders, companies, partnerships, or trusts. Own and Control Business They have full control over business operations, including decision-making, finances, and hiring. Legal Business Structure They choose a legal structure for their business, such as registering as a sole trader, setting up a company, or forming a partnership. www.taxly.ai
Personal Liability Self-employed individuals are personally liable for their business’s debts and obligations, except in the case of limited liability companies. Profit and Loss They bear the financial risks and rewards of their business, potentially earning profits or incurring losses. Regulatory Compliance They must meet legal requirements, such as obtaining an Australian Business Number (ABN), managing GST obligations if applicable, and maintaining accurate business records. www.taxly.ai
In a Nutshell Knowing self employed vs freelance deductions can put more money in your pocket. You must adhere to your freelancer or self-employed tax responsibilities in Australia according to ATO Guidelines. Keep expense records, seek professional advice, and make the most of these deductions to lower your taxes. www.taxly.ai
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