How Much of My Income is Taxable

[PandorasBox]

First time doing this...

I made enough to get a 1099-MISC. $875.00 total income.

Are my taxes based on $875 or just the portion over $600?

While I would love to put money towards my bills...I'm wondering what part I will owe on, so I can set that aside.

Thanks

[Bubba Jimmy]

Your taxes will be based on the $875 minus any business expenses you incurred to make that money. If the net amount after expenses is under $400, it will be included with your other income and you will only pay the income tax on that money. If it is $400 or more you will also pay a self employment tax as well, which is approximately 13% for 2012.

[PandorasBox]

Thank you!

I assume business expenses means: The table I had to purchase, the clothing to meet the dress standard that I don't wear for anything else...

Mileage, since I did work events not in my area? Like 60-90 miles each way? And all the record keeping? Just wondering. Thanks again.

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Record keeping includes use of camera, scanner, printer, etc.

[cbg]

The clothing that you had to buy - is it stuff that you CAN'T wear for anything else (such as things with a logo silk-screened or embroidered on it) or stuff that you simply don't wear?

If you CAN'T wear it elsewhere that's a different thing that if you just DON'T wear it elsewhere.

[PandorasBox]

Simply don't wear for any other purpose. Gotcha though.

What about the following:

- Backup corkscrew (When I started, I was worried about not being able to use the Waiters Corkscrew, so I bought a backup for my work bag. I've had to use it a few times, and it is strictly for work). One of those easy-to-use ones.

- Waiters Corkscrew. The one I was supplied with was stolen, so I replaced it ($1.67 at WalMart)

- Wine Book (since my job is demonstrating various wines, I bought this to further my knowledge)

- Money order for Liquor Control Commission Salesperson License (required)

- TIPS Class and certification (note: I got this in late November of 2011, before getting my job). But it is required for it.

- Wines that I would soon be demonstrating that I wanted to try before the event. (4 bottles total, like I had never tried a Sweet Red, a Moscato, a Reisling, or a Pinot Grigio before; same brand as upcoming demos)

Thanks a ton! Again, this is my first time with a 1099-MISC.

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Atleast I learned when working the route merchandiser job....to save my receipts. And have an Excel spreadsheet with everything, too.

[flyingron]

I believe all the things you list (other than the clothing) is acceptable expenses.

[PandorasBox]

Thank you