The Small Business Tax Help Blog

Archive for March, 2008

Question: How will my current income be effected if I register an ABN and begin running a small business on the side?

(Australia)

I work a full-time job as an employee.

I want to hold CM craft workshops on the side to help me pay off some debts. I believe I will need to register an ABN so I can purchase and make sales of goods.

How will the income (though not very sizeable) effect my current income – will I be taxed more for earning more, or might the costs and running fees of the business offset the tax.

Yep, I need to see an accountant – but just looking for basic advice here first so I can get a basic understanding.

Answer: It all depends if you are making a profit with your business. If there is an accounting profit it will be added to your wages, and you will have to pay tax at the appropriate tax rate. You should budget for this during the year so you don't get caught out at tax time.

If your business is making an accounting loss, i would assume based on what you've said that you would not be able to offset this against your income, but instead it would carry forward to offset any future profits. In this case your tax situation would be similar to how it is currently. There are some situations where you can offset losses against your wages, but you would need to speak to your accountant about your specific circumstances.

Speak to your accountant before starting the business or getting your ABN, as by setting the business up a certain way, you may be able to save more tax. Also check if you need to register for GST as this may mean some extra work for you, completing BAS's etc.

Good luck with your venture.

Cumberland County briefs - Princess Party, Tax workshop

The South Jersey Healthcare (SJH) Auxiliary will host its annual Princess Party on Saturday, March 6, from 10-11:30 a.m. and 1-2:30 p.m. at the SJH Fitness Connection Community Room at Sherman Avenue and Orchard Road, in Vineland.

eBay Workshop Announcement: 10/24/2006 @ 11am PST