EP34 - Cross-State Taxes for Creatives: How to Avoid Double Taxation

If you've ever taken a gig in another state, shot a project across state lines, or toured through multiple cities, you've probably triggered tax obligations you didn't even know existed. Most creative entrepreneurs assume taxes are simple: file where you live, and you're done. But the reality is far more complex. Every state has different rules about when you owe them taxes, and if you're not careful, you could end up paying taxes on the same income twice—or worse, facing penalties for not filing returns you didn't know you needed.

In this episode, CPAs Anastasia and Myiesha break down exactly what happens to your taxes when you cross state lines for work. You'll learn how income nexus works for creative businesses, when you're required to file non-resident tax returns, how to handle per diem versus actual expense reporting, what documentation you need to protect yourself, and how to make sure you're only paying taxes once on the same income. Whether you're a touring musician, a traveling photographer, a remote videographer, or any creative who works in multiple locations, this episode gives you the roadmap to stay compliant without overpaying.

If you've ever wondered whether that one-day shoot in another state means you owe taxes there, or if you're confused about how to track income and expenses across multiple locations, this episode will finally give you clarity.

⏱️ Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction to Cross-State Taxation for Creatives

00:13 Meet Your Hosts: Anastasia and Danielle

00:55 Understanding State Tax Rules for Nomadic Creatives

02:29 Income Nexus and Tax Responsibilities

08:01 Navigating Per Diem and Expense Reporting

11:15 Filing Non-Resident Tax Returns

13:07 Record Keeping and Working with Tax Accountants

19:33 Conclusion and Final Tips

Why subscribe? Every week, Let's Get Fiscal shares tax strategies and business finance advice that actually work for real entrepreneurs—not corporate-speak you can't use. You'll get specific, actionable tactics, real client scenarios, and answers to the money questions keeping you up at night. The goal is simple: make business finances less intimidating and more profitable.

🔗 Listen everywhere:

Apple Podcasts: [https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lets-get-fiscal/id1831050448](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lets-get-fiscal/id1831050448)

Spotify: [https://open.spotify.com/show/08AjRNfqQJBdG1vPazii4Q?si=fb0379d3bef94f11](https://open.spotify.com/show/08AjRNfqQJBdG1vPazii4Q?si=fb0379d3bef94f11)

Watch on YouTube: [https://www.youtube.com/@letsgetfiscalpodcast](https://www.youtube.com/@letsgetfiscalpodcast)

📊 Helpful resources:

Got a question for the show? Submit it here: [https://www.coterietax.com/qa](https://www.coterietax.com/qa)

Want to listen to more episodes? Start here: [https://www.coterietax.com/podcast](https://www.coterietax.com/podcast)

Need personalized help with your business finances? Visit: [https://www.coterietax.com](https://www.coterietax.com)

What's your biggest tax or money question right now? Drop it in the comments below—Anastasia and Myiesha read every comment and love helping with real-world situations.

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