Copyright © Kerry Thomson
http://www.MyPlugInProfits.com



Work at Home Record Keeping

Keeping records is something that most people never consider when they start working at home. This can be a major problem because most work at home positions are as an independent contractor. What this means is that the employer does not with holds taxes and you are responsible for paying them. Record keeping is important because it allows you to keep track of your earnings and of things you can take as deductions on your taxes.

Tools you Need

For good recordkeeping it is important to have some basic items. You should have a record book of some sort, usually a notebook works fine. You will also need a filing system of some kind. It can just be folders that you label. That is really all you need to get started with your record keeping.

What to Record

You will start by using the notebook to record the hours you work or the projects you complete, depending on what type of work you are doing. Be sure to record the date, name of the client (if applicable) and the pay rate. Depending on what you are doing you may also record when you get paid for the job and the date it is due to be completed. You should also have a record book for expenses. This includes internet, phone and other purchases or work related expenses. In one of your files or folders you need to keep receipts on all expenses.

You should also keep in your folders copies of work assignments or other things you get from your employer that show the work was assigned and completed by you. If you bank online you should also keep records of the payments made to you for work completed. Basically a good rule is to keep anything you think may be important. Just make sure to have separate folders for each type of record you keep. This helps you to stay organized.

Stay on Top of It

One of the most important aspects of record keeping is staying on top of it. You do not want to let it slip and try to play catch up. Things get lost or confused when you try to do this. It is important to complete records and record things as they happen. Once you fall behind it can be hard to get things back in order.

Additionally, for some work at home jobs you have to keep records or will end up not getting paid because you do not know what you have done and can not send an invoice to the customer.

Record keeping is beneficial for you because it can help you ensure you get paid and it will come in helpful when doing your taxes. The important of record keeping in the work at home job can not be over emphasized. You will find that good records allow you to be more professional and organized. You will do better work and be taken more seriously when you keep good records.




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