If I didn't make money all year and won't be employed until March 18 (paid monthly), will I owe money in taxes on April 18 even though tax season is over?

[amibrown17]

I'm launching book next week that will be self-published. The company I'm publishing with allows me to keep 70% of the money from sales, and will write me a check every month from the publication date. So even though I will technically be making money from March to April (this tax year), I don't be paid until the tax year is over. Will I still owe money? Is it best to reschedule my book launch the day after April 15th? 

[DoninGA]

Income for a tax year is based on what you earned up through December 31 of the tax year.  So if you had no income of any kind up through 12/31/2018 then there is no reason to file a tax return.

[amibrown17]

Thank you! You've been very helpful 🙂

[JulieR · Accepted solution]

The income you earn in 2019 from your sales will not be reported until you file your 2019 return, sometime after January 1, 2020.  You will not owe any tax on that income until 2020.