As the IRS tax filing deadline approaches, independent contractors, freelancers, and self-employed individuals need a clear, simple, and effective plan to file taxes on time and maximize deductions. That’s why we created a free checklist — for Schedule C tax filers who are required to file a 1040 return.

Whether you’re in rideshare, eCommerce, content creation, or another form of self-employment, this guide is designed to help you get organized and reduce stress during tax season.


✅ 1040 form and Schedule C Tax Prep Checklist: What to Bring to Your Appointment

Before we dive into the workflow, here’s a simple list of documents to gather for your tax appointment:

🔒 Identification & Personal Info

  • Government-issued photo ID

  • Social Security Number (or ITIN)

💵 Income Records

  • All 1099 forms (NEC, MISC, K)

  • Digital payment app records (Cash App, PayPal, Venmo, etc.)

  • Personal records of business income (invoices, deposits)

📊 Business Expense Documents

  • Receipts for advertising, supplies, software, and other tools

  • Mileage log or rideshare app summary

  • Home office expenses (rent, utilities, square footage)

📆 Prior Year Return

  • Last year’s 1040 + Schedule C for reference

📝 Pro Tip: Organizing digital receipts in a Google Drive or Dropbox folder by category can save time and money when you meet with your preparer.


💬 Why This Matters

According to Forbes, self-employed Americans often leave money on the table by missing deductions or waiting until the last minute. (Source: Forbes – Tax Mistakes to Avoid).
A Cosmopolitan article also noted that gig workers tend to “under-report income because they’re unsure how to track it all.” (Source: cosmopolitan.com)

Our local team in North Miami Beach makes sure that doesn’t happen to you.


💻 Book Your Appointment Today

Ready to file with confidence? Let’s get started.

📅 Click to Schedule: Book with Désir
📞 Call Us Now: (305) 707-7238
📧 Email: [email protected]


🎥 Want to Learn More?

Check out these helpful YouTube videos:


🔗 More Resources

 

Tax season doesn’t have to be stressful. Our proven tax prep checklist will make it easy for Schedule C filers in North Miami to stay ahead of the IRS deadline and keep more of what they earned.

Get That Refund: College Tax Basics

It’s tax season, and if you’re in college, you might have cash waiting for you in the form of a refund. Let’s break it down.

Refund Eligibility

If you worked a part-time job, check your W-2 for withheld taxes. Filing your return might mean getting that money back. Forbes says, “Even students who earn minimal income can benefit from filing taxes.”

Credits = Cash Back

  • American Opportunity Credit: Up to $1,000 refundable—even if you don’t owe taxes.
  • Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC): Designed for low-to-moderate earners.

Avoid Common Mistakes

  • Filing Too Late: According to Le Monde Financier, “Students who file in January often see refunds faster than those who wait.”
  • Forgetting Forms: Keep track of W-2s, 1098-Ts, and loan interest statements.

DIY Filing

Tools like FreeTaxUSA or IRS Free File make the process simple.

Want a step-by-step video? Check out my channel: YouTube.com/ThePromoPlug. It’s packed with money-saving YouTube tutorials for students and tax savings video guides to make your filing process a breeze.

Tax season doesn’t have to be stressful—let’s get this money and secure that refund!

 

 


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Tax Season 101: College Edition

Hey, College Fam!

Tax season is here, and if you’re a college student, you’re probably wondering where to even start. Whether it’s about saving money as a college student or exploring tax tips for students, this guide has you covered. Don’t sweat it—I’ve got your back with this quick guide to navigating taxes like a pro.

Why File Taxes as a Student?

Filing taxes isn’t just for full-time workers. It can unlock cash back, help you build credit, and set you up for financial success. Forbes notes, “Students who file taxes early learn financial responsibility and often discover deductions they never knew existed.” So, let’s dive into the basics.

Know Your Status

As a student, you might qualify as a dependent if your parents cover more than half of your expenses. But if you’re working part-time or juggling side hustles, you might need to file independently. Cosmopolitan’s finance column suggests, “Talk to your parents to avoid filing mistakes that could cost both of you.”

Deductions You Can’t Miss

  1. American Opportunity Credit: Worth up to $2,500 for tuition and supplies.
  2. Lifetime Learning Credit: Ideal for part-time students and grad students.
  3. Student Loan Interest Deduction: Claim up to $2,500 in interest paid.

Filing Made Easy

Use tools like TurboTax or H&R Block for simple filing. Many offer free options for students.

Pro Tip

According to Le Monde Financier, “Students across Europe file early to avoid last-minute errors and maximize refunds. Americans should follow suit.” Stay ahead of the game!

 


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