✅ Collect income records: invoices, Stripe/PayPal reports, bank deposits. ✅ Track expenses weekly: categorize receipts into office, software, marketing, subcontractors, travel, etc. ✅ Classify workers correctly: W‑2 vs 1099 — issue 1099s by Jan 31. ✅ Estimate and pay quarterly taxes if you expect to owe more than $1,000 — mark Jan 15, Apr 15, June 15, Sept 15 on your calendar. ✅ Reconcile books monthly so your profit number is accurate for Schedule C or K‑1. ✅ Save a tax buffer: set aside 20–30% of profit until you know your effective tax rate. ✅ Use a consistent method for filing: bank statements, credit card statements, invoices, expense reports, receipts, payroll reports and forms, estimated tax payments, accountant contacts. ✅ If unsure, consult a pro before major decisions (entity changes, large deductions, or retirement contributions).