The Creative Business Toolkit: From Bookkeeping to Tax Breaks for Small Business Owners

The Creative Business Toolkit: From Bookkeeping to Tax Breaks for Small Business Owners

Feeling overwhelmed by the financial side of your creative business? Join us for an invaluable hour and a half workshop led by Amy Northard, CPA and founder/CEO of Accounting for the Creatives. Amy isn't your typical accountant – she's passionate about empowering creative entrepreneurs like you to confidently manage your finances. In this interactive session, you'll demystify bookkeeping, learn practical budgeting skills, and conquer the often-dreaded world of taxes. Walk away with the tools and knowledge you need to focus on what you love most: creating!

Here's everything we'll cover in the class which will be followed by a Q&A with Amy.

Part 1: Managing and Organizing Your Finances

1. Separating Business and Personal Finances

   • Benefits of separate accounts for business and personal finances.

   • Overview of different business structures (Sole Proprietor, LLC, S-Corp).

2. Bookkeeping Basics

   • Tools for managing bookkeeping (software and spreadsheets).

   • Interactive demo with QuickBooks and monthly bookkeeping checklist.

3. Budgeting for Creative Projects

   • Break down a project budget and ensure profitability.

   • Activity: Participants create a budget for a current or upcoming project.

Part 2: Taxes Made Simple

1. Understanding Self-Employment Taxes

   • Explanation of quarterly tax payments.

   • Exercise: Walk through estimating self-employment taxes.

2. Tax Deductions for Creatives

   • List of relevant tax deductions for type designers, letterers, and calligraphers.

   • Interactive example: Mock tax preparation with overlooked deductions.

3. Common Tax Pitfalls

   • Share stories of common mistakes and how to avoid them.

   • Group activity: Discuss tax fears and how to overcome them.

About the Instructor:

Amy Northard, CPA, is the founder and CEO of Accounting for the Creatives.  With nearly a decade of experience in public accounting, Amy is passionate about helping creative business owners navigate the financial complexities of running a business. She's committed to making taxes and bookkeeping less stressful, so you can focus on your creative passion.