Why do we hate getting taxes done so bad? Well, for starters, a lot of us have to pay something back. We are terrified of screwing something up which might end up in more money we have to pay out. Not to mention the fact that the government always seems to be standing there with their hands out to collect money, but you don't really see the government handing out money to help people (well, most people, anyway).So, I got my figures all prepared. Itemized expenses and total sales for 2008. As for expenses, I go easy. Supplies, mileage, fees (like Etsy, Paypal, Google Checkout), contributions, postage....the basic expenses. I was advised a long time ago not to try to expense internet, phone and home office by my accountant. Apparently, you are guaranteeing an audit when you do this and the meager $400 or so you can deduct isn't worth taking a chance on the audit and having the IRS find a screw-up that will end in more money paid out.
If you haven't filed your taxes yet, go easy on yourself. Claim only the basic expenses and save the trickier ones to the corporations that have people on their payroll to do this sort of thing. There is no reason that tax time should be more stressful than it has to be. This of it that you are paying $400 a year for peace of mind. Or you can pay $40,000 a year to ensure it gets done correctly!
