The Simple Recordkeeping System for Freelancers (Spreadsheet + Folder)
You do not need to love bookkeeping. You need a system you will actually use in January, when every platform, client, and bank statement arrives at once. The folder Create one folder per tax year, digital or paper: 1099s/ — every 1099-NEC, 1099-K, 1099-MISC, W-2 Invoices/ — invoices you sent, with payment dates Receipts/ — photos/scans, named YYYY-MM-DD-vendor-amount.pdf Mileage/ — one log file Payments/ — quarterly estimated-tax confirmations Return/ — filed return copy + IRS acceptance The spreadsheet (copy these columns) Date | Client / Payer | Description | Gross pay | Payment method | Expense category | Expense amount | Receipt link | Notes ...