If your household has a mix of W2 and 1099 income — maybe one person works a traditional job while taking on freelance projects, another runs a small side business, and someone else earns full-time wages — tax season can quickly get confusing. It’s not unusual for families in this situation to
Tips to Improve Your Chance of a Small Business Loan
If you’re a small business owner struggling to get a loan, you’re far from alone. Many entrepreneurs have had frustrating experiences: being ghosted by “loan specialists,” denied despite revenue, or forced into predatory high-interest offers. Here’s how to understand those roadblocks, reframe
How to Use NotebookLM to Keep Track of Your Expenses and Taxes (Safely)
For small business owners, freelancers, and consultants, tax season doesn’t begin in April, it lasts all year. From tracking receipts to managing deductions and keeping notes on client income, there’s a constant flow of information to organize. That’s where NotebookLM can help especially if
When Your Employer Switches You from W2 to 1099: What Changes, What to Watch Out For
You might hear from coworkers or see job posts that say “1099 only” or “contractor status.” Sometimes that’s legitimate, but in many cases, people find out after the fact that being a 1099 contractor is very different -- for better or worse. Let’s explore what changes when you move from being a
How Tax Brackets Actually Work (& How to Make Them Work for You)
If you’ve ever worried that earning “too much” could bump you into a higher tax bracket and cause you to lose money, you’re not alone. A surprising number of people misunderstand how tax brackets actually work. The good news? It’s not nearly as punishing as it sounds. Let’s clear things up and
Misunderstanding “Income” vs “Profit”: A Cautionary Tale for LLC Owners
A small business owner recently shared a familiar frustration: they were advised to reserve 45% of their income for taxes and ended up owing far more than expected. What seemed like sound advice felt more like a trap. The root of the problem? A critical misunderstanding between revenue (income) and
If Your Real Estate Professional Status (REPS) Gets Denied in an Audit
Real estate investors often hear about the tax benefits of qualifying as a Real Estate Professional (REPS). When done correctly, REPS status can unlock significant deductions, allowing you to offset W2 income with passive real estate losses. But what happens if you claim REPS based on your CPA’s
How Tariffs are Impacting SMBs in Seattle
Small businesses and startups in Seattle are facing rising costs, unpredictable supply chains, and financial pressure due to tariffs on imported goods. From arcade owners to boutique retailers, entrepreneurs are feeling the effects firsthand. Take Gary’s Place, a local waterfront arcade: