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Stock Photography - Hobby Income or Business?

I am interested in selling photos online through stock photography agencies. To me this is just a hobby and I anticipate the income to be low and not something I would ever depend on. I already have a full-time career.

 

Would I claim income from stock photography as hobby income on my taxes, since that is what it is to me? Or would the IRS declare this to be a business in spite of how I see it and operate? At least one agency I know of sends contributors with earnings a 1099-MISC every year.

 

Given that a business usually requires the payment of regular income taxes plus self-employment taxes, I want to be sure I don't later have a problem because I didn't file correctly and pay everything required.

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1 Reply
Katie-P
Employee Tax Expert

Stock Photography - Hobby Income or Business?

Hi @David_R7!

Thanks for participating in our Ask the Experts Event today! I'm happy to help you.

You are spot on with your questions about hobby income vs. self-employment income. The determination can be confusing. I'm highlighting a few points below:

I hope this information is helpful! I'll stay tuned in case you have any follow-up questions. Thank you again @David_R7!

 

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