Katherine Said:

Income for entry level freelance writers?

We Answered:

Your chances of earning anything at all in that time frame are slim. People who hire freelancers are looking for experienced writers. You would have to have a terrific reputation - and an excellent portfolio - to earn $3500 in the next five weeks.

Also, freelance writers aren't "entry level" - they learn their craft on-staff at a company or on a newspaper. You need to build up a good reputation and good samples to show people before they'll take a chance on you.

Sorry to have to tell you this, but that's just how it is. I hope you have a fall-back idea.

Good luck!

EDIT: it can take 30 days or more to get paid once you submit your invoice. But once you're well-established, you can ask clients to pay you one-third or even 50% up front. Depends on the relationship you have with each client.

Bobbie Said:

Freelance writer with no income tax claims?

We Answered:

If there is solid evidence that her business started, there may be some expenses that would be deductible. For example, a retail store can't start deducting expenses until the "business start date," which would be the moment the doors open for the Grand Opening. It's more difficult to establish a business start date for other types of businesses.

Has she set up the business? Has she made contacts looking for work? Does she have business cards? Does she have a set of business books? Is there a reasonable expectation this will be a profitable venture?

If "yes" to all the above, necessary travel expenses may be deductible, depending on circumstances.

April Said:

Just got my first book published looking for added income. Do you know anyone that can use a freelance writer?

We Answered:

First bit of advice: Delete this question. You're about to get inquiries from a whole bunch of people who will not understand the market and will be asking you to work spec and then expect you to do all of the work to sell it.

Otherwise, looking for writing work is real work. Don't bother with Google or Yahoo stuff. You should be joining a professional writers organization. Find one that closely matches the genre of you current published work. If you can afford it, join more than one, Get to the local and annual meetings. Most have private e-mailing areas you can better ask the question above to fellow professionals. Circulate and network. You'll be surprised the work that can come of that.

Also, purchase the writing magazines. That'll keep you in touch with the writing community. As will frequently checking professional writers websites, like Publishers Weekly.

The most important thing to worry about now is getting your book circulated. Work with the big box bookstores and do as many book signings as possible. Your book sounds like a spiritual book. That's even easier in getting local Christian bookstores and the like to arrange signings with. It's a little late to get signings in time for the Christmas season, but, what the hey, try. The more you sell, the easier to sell the next book to the publisher.

It's all about legwork and lots of it. You're one of the fortunate to get published. Keep up the good work!

Jamie Said:

I work as a freelance writer. If my total income for '07 is 2542.00, is there any chance of getting stimulus?

We Answered:

No, you are not eligible for a stimulus check, since you didn't have the required $3000 of qualifying income.

And you won't owe income tax, but you WILL owe self employment tax which is for social security and medicare. If you don't have any allowable expenses to offset that income, the se tax will be around $360.

And no, EIC that you mght receive will NOT make you qualify for the rebate. Sorry. EIC isn't qualifying income.

Yolanda Said:

How much is federal income tax for a self employed freelance writer?

We Answered:

If your net after any allowable expenses is a little under $30K and you are single, no dependents, not a dependent, standard deduction, no adjustments or credits, you'd pay a little under $3000 for federal income tax.

Georgia Said:

I'm a writer living abroad who earns income on a freelance basis from U.S. clients. Do I have to pay taxes?

We Answered:

I am assuming you are not American yourself, nor do you have a greencard.

If that is the case, then it depends on what basis you are paid. Royalties and self-employment income are taxed on a source-basis in the US, but there may be treaty with your country of residence that allows you to pay the tax to your home country instead.

If you are an American or greencard holder living abroad, then you must file annual US tax returns on your income. Tax treaties or domestic law in your country of residence may also make this income taxable in your country of residence as well. Most countries grant tax credits for taxes paid in other countries. You will need professional tax assistance to sort out your situation. When looking for a tax advisor, choose one who is versed in both your home country's taxation laws and the US.