Mood:  energetic

Hey y'all.

From time to time, I take on work as a bookkeeper. This keeps me out of the Feast or Famine panic that's typical of most artists, teaches me about how to handle my own projects, and gives my income a boost during my down time. 

Anyway, I work with a lot of other artists and construction contractors on their books, and every now and then, I meet one who hasn't filed their taxes for several years, sometimes as many as 15. These people are surprised to get a letter from the IRS and their home states demanding back taxes, and are often even more shocked at the penalties, interest, and just how much they're said to owe. A few of these folks have told me they didn't have the time, and some simply thought they were smarter than the government and would never have to pay a dime.

A word to you non-particiants out there: Unless you're some kind of magic super-genius and/or have never, ever registered a social security number, a business enterprise, or worked for anyone requiring an I-9 or a 1099 in your entire life, you're going to get caught sooner or later. There isn't much of a maybe about it. Most of you -- as in 99% of you -- aren't smarter than the government. The moment you step up to claim that inheritance check, apply for a loan, are put onto an official payroll service or get yourself an EIN for your business, the clock is ticking. It might take the IRS 10 or even 20 years to catch up to you (as is the case with a few of our clients) but they almost certainly will.

Do your taxes! Beat the rush! Set your business up properly NOW! Get your act together sooner rather than later. Your charm might help you get the girl, the boy or a great job, but it won't help you when you're staring down your auditor, who has behind them the full power of the US government, like 'em or not.