Carol Topp, CPA and author speaking to a writers group

The following topics can be the basis of a seminar at a writers conference, a webinar, a workshop to a writers group or a radio /podcast interview. Each session can be modified to run from 15-60 minutes.

We can also arrange a virtual visit with your writers group using Skype. It works well if you have a strong internet connection and a way to project from a laptop.

 

” Thank you! I really enjoyed your workshop the best today. Your knowledge of the topic was exceptional. Your workshop was very insightful.”-Lorraine W., Greater Harvest Workshop participant

 
Contact Carol Topp for a workshop, Skype visit orĀ  interview

 

Click any of the topic titles for details and a handout

You're in Business Before You Make Money
Think you don’t need business or tax advice until you make money from your writing? Think again. CPA and author Carol Topp will explain tax deductions you can take before you sell your first book. She will also help you understand different business structures and what is best for you. View slides here.

Book to Business
A book is more than words on a page (or screen). It’s a business! CPA and author Carol Topp will explain the three steps to set up a business and will help you understand different business structures and what is best for you.

Hobby Writing: Pros, Cons and the IRS
When does your writing hobby become a business? When do you need to report hobby income to the IRS and what can a hobby writer deduct on his/her tax return? View the slides here.

“So valuable! Writers need this information but it is so hard to find. Your presentation was well-organized with a great foundation, clear examples, etc.”- Kim V., Dayton(OH) Christian Scribes

Writing as a Ministry
If you write as part of a ministry of service to other, are you running a business or a nonprofit organization? The pros and cons of forming a nonprofit organization as part of your writing ministry.
Download the handout here.

” Thank you! I really enjoyed your workshop the best today. Your knowledge of the topic was exceptional. Your workshop was very insightful.”-Lorraine W., Greater Harvest Workshop participant

Business Tips for Writers, Authors and Self-Publishers
Choices for your business structure including corporation and Limited Liability Company status are discussed as well as business start-up advice and record keeping tips for writers, authors and publishers. Download the handout.

Make Business Record Keeping a Breeze
Small business owners want to spend time on running their business, not record keeping. Carol offers tips to make record keeping easier.

Avoiding IRS Audit Flags for Business Owners
What can set off an IRS audit for your business? CPA and author Carol Topp, explains IRS audits and how to avoid them.

Taxes for Authors (or Writers or Self-Published Authors)
Federal income tax, self-employment tax and sales tax are all discussed as well as tax deductions and record keeping tips to make your life easier. Not as dull as it sounds and loaded with examples!

When Does an Author Need a CPA?
How a CPA can be an author’s ally regarding taxes, business entity choice, record keeping simplification and improving profits.

Authors and the IRS
How the IRS sees authors, trouble spots to avoid and audit flags.

LLC: Yes or No for You?
You may have heard about forming your business as an LLC, but wonder when or if its right for you. Carol Topp, CPA discusses the pros, cons, costs and benefits of LLC status for writers and self-publishers.

S Corporation: Yes or No for You?
You may have heard about incorporation your business as an S corp, but wonder when or if its right for you. Carol Topp, CPA discusses the pros, cons, costs and benefits of S corporation status for writers and publishers.

Contact Carol via email to arrange an interview or book her for your convention or writers group visit.

Honorarium: Travel expenses from Cincinnati, Ohio including hotel reimbursed. Speaker honorarium negotiable.