import QuickAnswer from ’../../components/QuickAnswer.astro’; import KeyTakeaways from ’../../components/KeyTakeaways.astro’; import FAQ from ’../../components/FAQ.astro’;

First-time self-employed filers need Schedule C (business income/expenses), Schedule SE (self-employment tax), and Form 1040. Gather all 1099s, track expenses, and file by April 15. Expect to pay 15.3% SE tax plus income tax, and plan for quarterly payments going forward.

<KeyTakeaways items={[ “You’re self-employed if you earned $400+ net profit from freelancing”, “Required forms: Schedule C, Schedule SE, Form 1040”, “Due date: April 15 (October 15 with extension)”, “Save 25-30% of income for taxes throughout the year”, “Start making quarterly payments for the current year” ]} />

First-Time Filing Checklist

Step 1: Gather Documents

Document	Where to Get It
1099-NEC forms	From each client who paid $600+
1099-K forms	From payment processors
Income records	Your own tracking
Expense receipts	Your files
Bank statements	Your bank
Prior year return	Your records

Step 2: Calculate Net Income

Total Revenue - Business Expenses = Net Profit

Step 3: Fill Out Forms

1. Schedule C: Report business income and expenses
2. Schedule SE: Calculate self-employment tax
3. Form 1040: Your personal tax return

Step 4: File and Pay

• E-file through IRS Free File or tax software
• Pay any tax due by April 15
• Set up quarterly payments for current year

Related Guides

• Self-Employment Tax Calculator - Calculate your tax
• Schedule C Deductions Checklist - Maximize deductions

<FAQ questions={[ { question: “Do I need to file if I only made $500?”, answer: “If your NET profit (after expenses) is $400 or more, you must file Schedule SE and pay self-employment tax. If net profit is under $400, you generally don’t owe SE tax, but may still need to file Form 1040 depending on total income.” }, { question: “Can I file self-employment taxes for free?”, answer: “Yes, if your income is under $64,000, you can use IRS Free File. IRS fillable forms are free for all income levels. Commercial software (TurboTax, H&R Block) offers free versions but may charge for Schedule C.” } ]} />