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Should I fill out a 1099 or S-EZ as a freelance writer who earned a total of $500? Do I have to file at all?

I read that freelancers who earn more than $400 have to file an income tax form, but because it wasn't $600 or more I wasn't provided a form by the employer. I'm confused as to where and how to start this process.
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Should I fill out a 1099 or S-EZ as a freelance writer who earned a total of $500? Do I have to file at all?

You don't fill out a 1099-MISC and your customer is not obligated to provide one.

As an "independent contractor" you are obligated to keep your own books and records of income and expense, and report those numbers properly on Schedule C which becomes part of your income tax return. 

You do have to file, you do have to fill out a Schedule C, you enter your revenue and expenses from your own books and records, (which might be as simple as a check register.)  That does mean you can't use the TT FreeEdition as it doesn't support the preparation of Schedule C.

Tom Young

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2 Replies

Should I fill out a 1099 or S-EZ as a freelance writer who earned a total of $500? Do I have to file at all?

You don't fill out a 1099-MISC and your customer is not obligated to provide one.

As an "independent contractor" you are obligated to keep your own books and records of income and expense, and report those numbers properly on Schedule C which becomes part of your income tax return. 

You do have to file, you do have to fill out a Schedule C, you enter your revenue and expenses from your own books and records, (which might be as simple as a check register.)  That does mean you can't use the TT FreeEdition as it doesn't support the preparation of Schedule C.

Tom Young

Should I fill out a 1099 or S-EZ as a freelance writer who earned a total of $500? Do I have to file at all?

You might be able to use the Tax Freedom website when it opens later.
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