Reporting self employment income

[jbtoher]

As an employed musician, the taxpayer also provides music lessons on the side.  Can this income be reported as Other Income, rather than being shown as a Schedule C?  There aren't any expenses to offset this relatively minor lesson income.

[Workpuddle]

I have several 'side gigs', one of which is Musician like you (maybe not as good, though). If you provide lessons or so other music stuff from home don't you want to take a small Home Office deduction? How about gasoline? How about supplies, strings, etc.? Surely you incur some valid expense in this.

[jbtoher]

Thanks for the input.  However, given the lack of expenses that aren't already tied to the musicians W-2 earnings there isn't really any costs incurred with videoconference lessons.  Perhaps I just show the self employment earnings as Sch C and not other income.

[DianeW777 · Accepted solution]

Yes, you should show self-employment earnings on Schedule C, even if you don't have any expenses.  It's important to track your income and, if applicable, any expenses that directly relate to your self-employment.  And the reason you have no expenses.

Any money earned for services performed is considered business income and self-employment if not done for an employer or outside of your normal employment.  In your case it's music lessons.  The link provided will show details to help you complete your business income.

• Reporting Self-Employment Income

To begin this entry in your TurboTax return follow the steps below.

• Use Search (upper right) > Type Schedule C > Press Enter > Click the Jump to... link > follow the screen prompts

[jbtoher]

Thanks for the confirmation.  I appreciate it.