Tax Guides
The rules behind the decisions.
Topic-based tax references connected to the stories in Money Meets Tax.
Side Hustle Income: When Does It Become a Business?
One paid project can be taxable before it becomes a Schedule C business.
Does an LLC Automatically Save Taxes?
Forming a single-member LLC does not automatically lower federal taxes. Learn what changes, what stays the same, how S corporation taxation differs, and why California’s $800 annual tax matters.
California LLC: The $800 Annual Tax and Form 568
California LLCs can owe the $800 annual tax before earning revenue. Learn Form 568, first-year rules, LLC fees, deadlines, and the 2027 change.
Buying a Home: What Actually Changes on Your Tax Return?
Buying a home can change your deductions, but not every housing cost is deductible. Learn how mortgage interest, property taxes, PMI, closing costs, and home basis actually work.
Home Repairs vs. Improvements: What Adds to Basis?
Not every dollar spent on a home gets the same tax treatment. Learn when repairs are simply personal costs, when improvements increase home basis, what records to keep, and how the former 30% residential clean energy credit fits in.
Side Income and Estimated Taxes: How Much Should You Set Aside?
A fixed tax percentage can be a useful savings habit, but it is not a tax calculation. Learn how net business profit, self-employment tax, federal safe harbors, W-2 withholding, and California estimated taxes fit together.