Tax filing is over for this year and I had better results this go-round than I did last time. Keeping better records really helped a lot, and my tax preparer gave me a couple of tips on how to reduce my tax burden a little more next year.
This time, I did break even on my Federal tax and I'm getting a few bucks back from the state tax, so that's a real improvement. Last year, I owed both! So, I'll continue with keeping every receipt, as I did for the past year, and I'll be mindful of how much money I make outside of my regular job so I will be able to balance that out better.
I need the extra money, just like everyone else does, but I have to remember that to make that money means I need to spend some on various supplies, internet connections, and the tools with which to do a proper job. Some of my extra money is made through writing for some online companies. That's the easiest for me and the job that requires the least amount of expenses by it's very nature. However, there still are some expenses involved including paper, ink, and other regular office supplies so I can keep track of what I do.
I will be cranking up my eBay site again soon. I am working a regular job closer to home and that means I don't have to spend as much time driving. It also means I don't have to let that job overtake my whole life! I can now spend some time at home pursuing hobbies, gardening, and still generate income that I need on the side. I'm more well-rested now and able to focus energy on these various pursuits.
