Is Starting a Business Worth It? A Financial Reality Check

Thinking of launching a business to save on taxes? In this episode, Terrence Hutchins and co-host T’mia break down what many aspiring entrepreneurs overlook: the true financial costs of starting a business—and whether it's worth your time. This is the first of a three-part series unpacking the mindset, math, and tax implications behind the decision to become a business owner.

Perfect for side hustlers, freelancers, or anyone evaluating whether entrepreneurship is the right path, this episode walks through a practical framework to help you decide with clarity and confidence.

Key Takeaways:

• Profit vs. Passion: Why business should be about making money, not just saving on taxes or chasing passion alone.
• Know Your Worth: How to calculate your hourly rate and determine if your business idea can exceed that value.
• Startup vs. Operating Costs: Learn the difference between upfront and ongoing expenses—and why many new business owners underestimate both.
• Minimum Revenue Math: Use this formula to reverse-engineer how much income you need to make entrepreneurship viable.
• Value-Based Pricing: Six reasons people will pay you—and how to communicate that value without underselling yourself.

Featured Tax Tip:

Startup Write-Offs: The IRS allows up to $5,000 in organizational expenses and $5,000 in startup expenses to be deducted in your first year of business—if you have a genuine profit motive. Don't mistake a hobby for a company, or you'll lose this powerful benefit.

Leaping into entrepreneurship can offer freedom, but it’s not free. Listen in to learn how to value your time, price your services, and plan for taxes before you dive in.

Subscribe to How to Lower Your Tax Bill on Spotify or Apple Podcasts.

Keep More of What You Earn.