Guide
You can work as an independent contractor without forming an LLC. Here’s when structure matters—and what GigLog supports today.
GigLog provides recordkeeping and tax estimates. It is not a CPA, attorney, or tax advisor. Tax rules change—confirm with a qualified professional and official government sites linked on these pages.
No. Many musicians start as sole proprietors by default—the simplest structure. An LLC (limited liability company) can add liability protection and a more professional identity for contracts and banking, but it is not required to take gigs, send invoices, or file Schedule C. Talk with a CPA or attorney about liability, contracts, and your state’s filing fees before you form one.
How GigLog helps
Educational for entity choice. Available now for books whether you use your personal name or an LLC—same gig, pay, and deduction tracking.
As a sole proprietor, you and the business are the same legal person. Taxes are usually straightforward (Schedule C on your Form 1040), but your personal assets are on the line for business debts and claims. A single-member LLC is typically taxed the same way by default (still often Schedule C), but creates a legal separation if you keep business and personal money apart and sign contracts correctly. Annual fees and paperwork vary by state.
How GigLog helps
Available now — Use earnings history and year-end reports when you’re deciding whether volume and risk justify an LLC—then keep the same clean books either way.
Most working musicians operate one performing business (under their own name or one LLC). GigLog is built around one personal tax profile—your filing status, dependents, and home/tax settings—plus bands and clients inside that business. Separate legal entities with separate books (for example, a performing LLC and a teaching LLC) are a more advanced setup; talk to a CPA about whether you truly need two entities before you ask software for multi-company accounting.
How GigLog helps
Not planned for v1. One tax profile; multiple bands/clients under that profile. If multi-entity demand grows, invoice “Bill From” identity and separate books would be a later project—not something to promise on the site today.
An EIN is a free business tax ID from the IRS (apply at IRS.gov). Sole proprietors can often use a Social Security number, but an EIN helps you open a business bank account and reduces how often you put your Social Security number on client paperwork such as Form W-9. LLCs typically need an EIN.
How GigLog helps
Available now — Optional tax ID / business identity on invoices. Planned — Prefill a W-9 PDF from that identity so you aren’t retyping for every venue. GigLog is not designed to store Social Security numbers for tax tooling.
GigLog helps musicians and freelancers manage bookings, earnings, tips, expenses, and tax estimates in one place.
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