So, You’re Starting a Side Business…

Official IRS Business & Startup Guidance

These resources come directly from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and provide foundational guidance for individuals who are self-employed, running a side business, or starting a new business. They explain federal tax responsibilities, recordkeeping requirements, and how business income and expenses should be reported. These links are a great starting point for understanding what the IRS expects and how to stay compliant from the beginning.

IRS Small Business & Self-Employed Tax Center

A centralized IRS hub covering tax basics for small businesses and independent contractors, including recordkeeping, estimated taxes, business deductions, and reporting requirements.
https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed

IRS Publication 583: Starting a Business and Keeping Records

Step-by-step guidance on starting a business and setting up a recordkeeping system to track income and expenses properly from day one.
https://www.irs.gov/publications/p583

IRS Publication 334: Tax Guide for Small Business

A comprehensive guide for sole proprietors and freelancers explaining how to report business income and expenses on Schedule C, including common deductions.
https://www.irs.gov/publications/p334

IRS Business Structures Overview

Explains different business structures (sole proprietorship, partnership, LLC, corporation) and how each is treated for federal tax purposes.
https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/business-structures

IRS Self-Employed Estimated Taxes

Guidance on who must pay quarterly estimated taxes, how to calculate them, and how to make payments.
https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/estimated-taxes

IRS Recordkeeping Requirements

Details what records business owners should keep, how long to keep them, and why good documentation matters.
https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/recordkeeping

Note: These resources are provided for general educational purposes. Tax rules can vary based on individual circumstances, and this information should not be considered personalized tax advice.