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Level 1
April 13, 2022
Question

How to fill out income from Rewards program

  • April 13, 2022
  • 1 reply
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Hi,

 

I need help with specific instructions on how to fill out the tax form if I received a 1099-MISC and box 3 Other income says $2,200. This was earned based on referring people onto a internet provider. As a reward or a form of payment, we receive points that we can then redeem into tangible things we can order. 

 

I have trouble understanding the difference between distinguishing when something is a hobby and a Business if the numbers are around the $2,200. Please help! 

    1 reply

    LudwigVan_fan
    Alumni - Champ
    Alumni - Champ
    April 14, 2022

    Hobby or business has been a long-standing question.  Part of it is whether you are holding yourself out in that activity as a business.

     

    From IRS

     

    https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/earning-side-income-is-it-a-hobby-or-a-business

     

     

    Here are nine things taxpayer must consider when determining if an activity is a hobby or a business:

    • Whether the activity is carried out in a businesslike manner and the taxpayer maintains complete and accurate books and records.
       
    • Whether the time and effort the taxpayer puts into the activity show they intend to make it profitable.
       
    • Whether they depend on income from the activity for their livelihood.
       
    • Whether any losses are due to circumstances beyond the taxpayer's control or are normal for the startup phase of their type of business.
       
    • Whether they change methods of operation to improve profitability.
       
    • Whether the taxpayer and their advisors have the knowledge needed to carry out the activity as a successful business.
       
    • Whether the taxpayer was successful in making a profit in similar activities in the past.
       
    • Whether the activity makes a profit in some years and how much profit it makes.
       
    • Whether the taxpayers can expect to make a future profit from the appreciation of the assets used in the activity.

    In this case, what expenses do you have in this?  If simply referring people to a business to earn "rewards" doesn't lend itself to any expenses.  If you classify it as a business, you would need to file Sch C and then end up paying self-employment tax on the profit.  Expenses would be deducted on Sch C as a business.  Expenses for a hobby are deducted on Sch A and are limited.

    **Disclaimer: Effort has been made to offer correct information; but due to the discussion forum limitations, the poster disclaims any legal responsibility for the accuracy of the poster's response**