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Tax Checklist for Irish Artists & Creatives

  • darrenbenhambno
  • May 13
  • 2 min read


Whether you're a freelance designer, musician, photographer, or writer—understanding your tax obligations can save you time, stress, and money. Here’s a simple checklist to help you stay compliant and reduce your tax bill.


1. Are You Eligible for Artists’ Tax Exemption?

  • If you create original works of art, literature, music, or film, you may qualify for Section 195 exemption (income up to €50,000 tax-free).

  • Must apply through Revenue and get a determination.

  • Applies only to creative work sold in Ireland/EU.

📌 Tip: We help creatives assess eligibility and apply correctly.


2. Keep Records of All Income Sources

  • Sales of work (galleries, Etsy, Bandcamp, etc.)

  • Freelance commissions

  • Grants or bursaries (some may be taxable)

  • Teaching, workshops, or speaking gigs

📌 Use tools like QuickBooks, Xero, or a simple spreadsheet.


3. Track Deductible Expenses (Every Receipt Counts)

You can deduct legitimate business expenses such as:

  • Art supplies, instruments, materials

  • Studio or workspace rent

  • Software (e.g., Adobe, Logic Pro, Canva Pro)

  • Website and hosting costs

  • Phone and internet (if partly for work)

  • Travel to exhibitions, performances, or gigs

  • Marketing and social media ads

  • Accounting or legal fees

📌 Pro Tip: If working from home, claim a portion of rent, electricity, etc.


4. Know Your Tax Deadlines

  • 31 October 2025: Paper tax return deadline

  • Mid-November 2025: ROS (Revenue Online Service) deadline

  • Pay Preliminary Tax if required

📌 Missing deadlines can mean penalties—set reminders or talk to a professional.


5. Understand if You Should Register for VAT

  • Most freelancers won’t need to unless income exceeds thresholds.

  • But if selling services outside Ireland, reverse charge rules might apply.


6. Do You Need to Register as Self-Employed?

  • Yes, if earning over €5,000 per year from freelance or creative work

  • Register with Revenue via Form TR1 (online)


💬 Need Help?

Most creatives undercharge and overpay tax. We help artists and freelancers across Ireland:

  • Apply for exemptions

  • Set up tax-efficient systems

  • Avoid stress and surprises

 
 
 

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