Independent Contractor Expenses
I started a new career in 2016 as an independent contractor, but will not receive payment for the work I performed in 2016 until 2017. In 2016, I had startup expenses and related job expenses for the income I will receive in 2017. I am a cash basis taxpayer with wages & other taxable income for 2016. Can I deduct my start-up expenses and contracting work expenses in 2016 even though the corresponding income will not be received and reported until 2017? If so, I will show a loss in 2016 for my contracting work by reporting only the related job expenses.