What is Schedule C?
IRS form for reporting profit or loss from a sole proprietorship or single-member LLC business.
Definition
Schedule C (Profit or Loss From Business) is used to report income and expenses from operating a business as a sole proprietor or single-member LLC that hasn't elected corporate taxation. The net profit from Schedule C flows to your Form 1040 and is also used to calculate self-employment tax on Schedule SE. This is the primary form for freelancers, gig workers, and independent contractors.
Who Needs to Know This?
Sole proprietors, single-member LLC owners, freelancers, independent contractors, and gig workers who have business income and expenses to report.
Key Deadline
Filed with annual tax return (April 15 or extension)
Potential Penalties
Penalties apply for underreporting income or overclaiming deductions
Related Forms
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- 1Not keeping adequate records of business expenses
- 2Mixing personal and business expenses
- 3Missing legitimate deductions (home office, vehicle, etc.)
- 4Not understanding which expenses are deductible
Related Terms
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