If you work for yourself, understanding how to file your taxes is key to avoiding IRS surprises and maximizing your deductions. More and more Latinos in the U.S. are working as freelancers, independent contractors, or small business owners.

At Viera Services, we walk you through how to handle your taxes as a self-employed worker in 2026 and how to prepare for tax season with confidence.

1. What it means to be self-employed

The IRS considers you self-employed if you provide services to clients without being on payroll, get paid per project or contract, and receive 1099-NEC, 1099-MISC, or cash payments. This includes rideshare and delivery drivers, contractors in construction or cleaning, and creative professionals. Being independent gives you flexibility but also the responsibility to keep your own records.

2. Taxes you must pay

As a self-employed worker, you generally owe two types of federal taxes:

• Income Tax: based on your net profit.

• Self-Employment Tax (15.3%): covers your Social Security and Medicare contributions.

Tip: You can deduct half of your self-employment tax when calculating your adjusted income, which helps reduce your overall tax burden.

3. Keep good records and track deductible expenses

One big advantage of being self-employed is that you can deduct many ordinary and necessary business expenses, such as: cell phone and internet, transportation and mileage, tools, equipment, and marketing costs. Good bookkeeping and saved receipts can legally reduce the amount of tax you owe.

4. Make quarterly estimated tax payments

Unlike W-2 employees, self-employed workers are expected to send estimated tax payments to the IRS each quarter (April, June, September, and January). If you don’t make those payments, you may face underpayment penalties. At Viera Services, we help you calculate these payments to avoid year-end debt.

5. Forms you’ll use when you file

Most self-employed workers file Form 1040 with Schedule C to report income and expenses. If you operate under a business structure like an LLC taxed as an S-Corp, you may also need Form 1120-S or Form 1065. Choosing the right structure makes a big difference in how you’re taxed.

6. Why professional help matters

Self-employed tax rules can get complicated, especially if you juggle multiple income streams or are considering moving from sole proprietor to an LLC. A small mistake can lead to paying more tax than necessary or missing out on deductions.

At Viera Services, our bilingual professionals help you organize your expenses, calculate estimated payments, and file correctly. Clear records are the foundation for avoiding IRS trouble and growing your business with confidence.

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