Freelance tax guides, written by our CPAs
Quarterly estimates, deductions, 1099s and the home office, explained with real numbers. No jargon we do not define.
Quarterly estimated taxes for freelancers, explained
Who has to pay them, how much, and the four dates that matter in 2026 and 2027.
Estimates
7 min read
The safe harbor rule: how to never owe an underpayment penalty
Pay a set share of last year's tax and the IRS cannot charge a penalty, even if this year is bigger.
Estimates
5 min read
Schedule C line by line, for people who hate forms
What each common line means, with examples from a designer, a developer and a photographer.
Deductions
9 min read
Home office deduction: simplified or regular method?
A worked example for a 180 square foot room in a rented apartment, both ways.
Deductions
6 min read
Mileage or actual car costs: which one to use
The standard rate is simpler. Actual costs win for some expensive cars. Here is how to tell.
Deductions
5 min read
1099-NEC, 1099-K and what to do when they don't match
Why your forms rarely add up to your income, and why that is usually fine.
Income
6 min read
Connect the accounts you get paid through and Ashford shows your fourth-quarter estimate in about five minutes. Bookkeeping and estimates are free; filing starts at $24 a month.