{"id":87872,"date":"2024-07-03T10:04:02","date_gmt":"2024-07-03T14:04:02","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.rbcroyalbank.com\/en-ca\/?post_type=rbc_my_money_matter&#038;p=87872"},"modified":"2024-07-03T10:04:04","modified_gmt":"2024-07-03T14:04:04","slug":"the-joys-and-pitfalls-of-being-self-employed-10-dos-and-donts-for-success","status":"publish","type":"rbc_my_money_matter","link":"https:\/\/www.rbcroyalbank.com\/en-ca\/my-money-matters\/business\/right-sized-business-advice\/solo-entrepreneur\/the-joys-and-pitfalls-of-being-self-employed-10-dos-and-donts-for-success\/","title":{"rendered":"The Joys and Pitfalls of Being Self-Employed: 10 Dos and Don&#8217;ts for Success"},"content":{"rendered":"<div class=\"wp-block-rbc-single-article-header\">\n\t<section class=\"section-grey cover pad-t-hlf\">\n\t\t<div class=\"section-inner w-half w-mob-full centered-margin cover section-grey pad-tb-0\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"inline-block pill-container pill-taxonomies\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"mar-b-hlf mob-mar-b snipe pill is-style-blue-pill\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<a class=\"primary-taxonomy\" href=\"https:\/\/www.rbcroyalbank.com\/en-ca\/my-money-matters\/topic\/entrepreneur\/\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<span>Entrepreneur<\/span>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<h1 class=\"mar-b-hlf mar-t-0 mob-pad-lr-hlf h2 has-black-color\">The Joys and Pitfalls of Being Self-Employed: 10 Dos and Don&#8217;ts for Success<\/h1><p class=\"mar-b-0 mob-pad-lr-hlf author-text\">By Royal Bank of Canada<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"featured-image-wrapper pos-rel\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/www.rbcroyalbank.com\/en-ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/12\/2024\/06\/iStock-1440817409.jpg?quality=80\" class=\" cover-image  wp-post-image\" alt=\"Female designer holding color swatches while working with computer at workplace\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.rbcroyalbank.com\/en-ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/12\/2024\/06\/iStock-1440817409.jpg 2121w, https:\/\/www.rbcroyalbank.com\/en-ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/12\/2024\/06\/iStock-1440817409.jpg?resize=300,200 300w, https:\/\/www.rbcroyalbank.com\/en-ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/12\/2024\/06\/iStock-1440817409.jpg?resize=768,512 768w, https:\/\/www.rbcroyalbank.com\/en-ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/12\/2024\/06\/iStock-1440817409.jpg?resize=1024,683 1024w, https:\/\/www.rbcroyalbank.com\/en-ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/12\/2024\/06\/iStock-1440817409.jpg?resize=1536,1024 1536w, https:\/\/www.rbcroyalbank.com\/en-ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/12\/2024\/06\/iStock-1440817409.jpg?resize=2048,1365 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/>\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t<\/section>\n\t<div class=\"article mar-t-dbl\">\n\t\t\t\t<section>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"section-inner socials-section\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"top-socials-bar mob-mar-b-hlf\">    <div class=\"social-links mob-mar-b-hlf mob-mar-t-hlf\">\n            <a class=\"social-button-wrapper sharing-custom sharing-email\" href=\"mailto:?subject=The Joys and Pitfalls of Being Self-Employed: 10 Dos and Don&#8217;ts for Success &#038;body=Hi, I thought you might be interested in this article from RBC My Money Matters: https:\/\/www.rbcroyalbank.com\/en-ca\/my-money-matters\/business\/right-sized-business-advice\/solo-entrepreneur\/the-joys-and-pitfalls-of-being-self-employed-10-dos-and-donts-for-success\/\">\n        <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/www.rbcroyalbank.com\/en-ca\/wp-content\/plugins\/rbc-blocks\/assets\/img\/icons\/icon-email.svg\"\n          alt=\"envelope icon\">\n        <span>\n          Email        <\/span>\n      <\/a>\n      <div class=\"social-button-wrapper sharing-copy-wrapper\">\n        <button class=\"sharing-custom sharing-copy\" data-url=\"https:\/\/www.rbcroyalbank.com\/en-ca\/my-money-matters\/business\/right-sized-business-advice\/solo-entrepreneur\/the-joys-and-pitfalls-of-being-self-employed-10-dos-and-donts-for-success\/\">\n          <img decoding=\"async\"\n            src=\"https:\/\/www.rbcroyalbank.com\/en-ca\/wp-content\/plugins\/rbc-blocks\/assets\/img\/icons\/icon-related.svg\"\n            alt=\"copy icon\">\n          <span id=\"sharing-copyUrl-Label\">\n            Copy URL          <\/span>\n        <\/button>\n        <input type=\"text\" class=\"sharing-copy-text\" aria-labelledby=\"sharing-copyUrl-Label\">\n      <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n  <\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t<section>\n\t\t\t<div class=\"section-inner w-half w-mob-full centered-margin pad-tb-0 mob-mar-t-hlf mob-mar-b\">\n\t\t\t\t<p class=\"cover-pub-line text-xs mar-b-hlf\">Published July 3, 2024 \u2022 9 Min Read<\/p>\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<section class=\"wp-block-rbc-section-block  pos-rel\" style=\"border-radius:0px\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-rbc-section-inner-block  section-inner w-half w-mob-full\" style=\"border-radius:0x\">\n<p>There can be great joy in being self-employed. The stories are true \u2013 you can set your own schedule, cater to a specific client base, focus on what you do best and be your own boss. But working for yourself comes with unique considerations compared to working as an employee, including taxes and financial planning, business development and time management.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As a business-of-one, it\u2019s therefore important to establish thoughtful business planning and money management processes that can help you make the most out of your business. Whether you are a consultant, creative freelancer, or self-employed professional, these tips can help you run a successful business, while freeing up time to focus on what you do best.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">10 Dos and Don\u2019ts of being a freelancer<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>So, how do you know what to watch for and what to celebrate? These 6 dos and 4 don\u2019ts of being self-employed can help set you up for success as you embark on a solo career. The good news is, when you know where they are, you\u2019re better set up to avoid them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">1. DO set aside money for taxes<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>When you\u2019re self-employed, the income you earn from your business activities is like a gross salary \u2013 no taxes have been withheld, so it\u2019s your responsibility to set aside and pay income taxes directly to the government. Set up a separate business banking account to automatically allocate 25-30% of what you earn for your tax liability, though it\u2019s worth checking this figure against your tax bracket to ensure you\u2019re putting enough aside. Here are a few things to keep in mind:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-rbc-list is-style-blue-disc\">\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p>Depending on where you live, you may be able to pay your income taxes in quarterly installments through the year. This spreads your tax liability over twelve months (eliminating a big lump sum payment come tax time) and can help you stay disciplined \u2013 you won\u2019t be at risk of spending money that you\u2019re not entitled to keep<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p>If you earn (or expect to earn) less than $30,000 per year, you do not have to collect or pay sales tax to the government.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p>If you expect to earn more than $30,000, you are obligated to collect GST\/HST and pay it back to government in a quarterly GST\/HST remittance payment.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">2. DO make use of digital tools<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>When you work for yourself, life can get really busy, really fast. That\u2019s why it\u2019s important to make the business-side of solopreneurship as easy as possible. Digital tools can help with everything from billing to communication, web design to marketing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-rbc-list is-style-blue-disc\">\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p>Payments and accounting software can simplify \u2013 and even automate \u2013 invoicing, payments and tax filing<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p>Communication platforms can help you stay in touch with clients and other freelancers who are collaborating on projects<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p>Scheduling software can keep your calendar up to date, automate appointments and eliminate back-and-forth emails<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p>Project management platforms can help you organize work across clients and teams, including automated task management<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p>Social media management tools can automate tasks like posting content on all platforms, interacting with your audience, and measuring your impact.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">3. DO nurture networks and referrals<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>One of the best ways to build a business as a freelancer is through word of mouth. If you complete a project or sell a product for a client who was pleased with your work, don\u2019t be shy about asking them to pass your name along to others within their network.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Keep in mind, while the service or goods you provide are obviously important to building your business, your attitude and approach with your clients is just as critical. They will remember \u2013 and recommend \u2013 you if go above and beyond to complete a rush request, provide additional options on top of what they have asked for and otherwise help them look good to their boss, customers or stakeholders. Being a good, reliable partner is an excellent way to build your reputation and your network.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">4. DO set up a rainy-day fund<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>One of the most challenging parts of working for yourself is that you don\u2019t have guaranteed income. During some months (or years) you could be flush with clients and cash, and other times, you could be checking that your phone number is activated and your WiFi still working. Freelancers often experience a feast-or-famine cycle throughout their careers, so it\u2019s important to plan accordingly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Setting up a rainy-day fund while you\u2019re busy and earning good money is a really smart idea. That way, when work slows down, you don\u2019t have to immediately launch into panic mode or rely on credit to pay your bills. There are inevitable ebbs and flows in the life of a self-employed worker. And while it can be tough to enjoy the lulls when they happen, it\u2019s easier to do when you plan for them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">5. DO explore the unique implications of retirement planning for freelancers<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>For freelancers, setting up a retirement plan is a do-it-yourself exercise \u2013 you don\u2019t have a company pension plan or group retirement savings plan to leverage. So, you have to take matters into your own hands. Here are some tips:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-rbc-list is-style-blue-disc\">\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p>Set up automatic deposits into a high-interest savings account to consistently build savings<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p>Make use of both a&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.rbcroyalbank.com\/investments\/tfsa.html\" data-dig-id=\"LP-87872-462ed237\" data-dig-label=\"TFSA&nbsp;\" data-dig-action=\"link click\" data-dig-category=\"LP\" class=\"rbc-link-format\">TFSA<\/a> and&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.rbcroyalbank.com\/investments\/rrsp.html\" data-dig-id=\"LP-87872-bb32b8ff\" data-dig-label=\"RRSP\" data-dig-action=\"link click\" data-dig-category=\"LP\" class=\"rbc-link-format\">RRSP<\/a>. In a TFSA, money grows tax-free, and you can withdraw funds should you need some extra cash during leaner times. When you contribute to an RRSP, meanwhile, you can take advantage of other tax advantages \u2013 most notably, your RRSP contribution reduces your taxable income<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p>Create a retirement plan. Your retirement savings can be contained within your TFSA and RRSP, but it\u2019s important to ensure your plans reflect your retirement timeline, your goals and your risk tolerance. Getting professional advice about your retirement plan can help ensure your savings match your expectations<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p>Set up sufficient insurance coverage to protect you in case you have to stop working unexpectedly due to illness or injury<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">6. DO set a schedule that works for you<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Remember, you are in control of your business and your time \u2013 and how you use that time is based completely on your own effort and energy (unlike when you were an employee, and you were tied to the schedules of your company and your team).<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>This means that the more organized you are with your time, the more efficient you will be, and the more work you could get through. Here are some time-management tips:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-rbc-list is-style-blue-disc\">\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p>Use calendar tools to make it easier for clients and prospects to book you<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p>Book time to work on your business, such as networking, virtual coffees with industry colleagues, and training sessions<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li class=\"wp-block-rbc-list-item\">\n<p>Work when you\u2019re at your best. If you find you are most productive first thing in the morning, set your working hours accordingly. Do you fade by mid-afternoon? Allocate that time for activities that take less brain power! If you\u2019re a night owl, plan accordingly<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">7. DON\u2019T wait until year-end to do your paperwork<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>We have already established that life as a freelancer can get busy \u2013 and paperwork could be your least favourite part of working for yourself. But leaving it until the end of the year isn\u2019t the way to go.&nbsp; From invoicing to expense management to tax filing, tackling your admin tasks at a regular cadence will save you time in the long run \u2013 and likely regulate your cash flow.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Here\u2019s an extra tip! Keep your&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.rbcroyalbank.com\/en-ca\/my-money-matters\/business\/managing-your-business\/cash-flow-management-and-financials\/business-banking-the-benefits-of-separating-business-from-personal\/\" data-dig-id=\"LP-87872-550e0181\" data-dig-category=\"LP\" data-dig-action=\"link click\" data-dig-label=\"business and personal expenses as separate\" class=\"rbc-link-format\">business and personal expenses as separate<\/a>&nbsp;as possible. While business and personal costs can be intertwined when you\u2019re a solopreneur, separating your business-only expenses can make it easier to manage your deductions come tax-time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">8. DON\u2019T become stagnant<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>When business is strong and your clients can\u2019t get enough of you, it can feel like you never have to hustle for work again. But even the most established, reliable clients can go through budget cuts, change their leadership or reprioritize their spending, which could reduce your workload (and income) in a hurry. While it\u2019s crucial to provide the best possible service to your clients, it\u2019s important to remain focused on business development. By continuing to nurture referrals, attend networking events, keep up marketing efforts and maintain your website, you\u2019ll be in a position to take on new clients if demand from current customers falls off.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">9. DON\u2019T forget to celebrate your successes<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>When you work for yourself, you don\u2019t get regular performance reviews or acknowledgement from a manager for a job well done. This is another instance where you want to take matters into your own hands! If you\u2019ve just completed a top-notch project, signed a big contract or reached an important milestone, be sure to congratulate yourself. Go out for coffee, book a massage or buy something nice for yourself! Celebrating your successes can keep you feeling fulfilled and motivated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">10. DON\u2019T give up your vacations<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019re making the transition from employee to self-employed, one of the hardest things to get used to is the lack of paid vacation. But that doesn\u2019t mean that you should give up on taking time off. Yes, you won\u2019t get paid while you\u2019re taking a break, but there are many benefits that come with disconnecting \u2013 you give your body and mind an opportunity to recharge, you boost your creativity with a change of scenery and gain valuable perspective that comes with stepping back from your business.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><em>3 min read:&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.rbcroyalbank.com\/en-ca\/my-money-matters\/business\/managing-your-business\/business-planning\/unplugging-for-success-5-tips-to-help-business-owners-take-time-off\/\" data-dig-id=\"LP-87872-5b9eb846\" data-dig-category=\"LP\" data-dig-action=\"link click\" data-dig-label=\"Unplugging for Success: 5 Tips to Help Business Owners Take Time Off \" class=\"rbc-link-format\">Unplugging for Success: 5 Tips to Help Business Owners Take Time Off <\/a><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you\u2019re not comfortable unplugging completely, consider setting a schedule while away \u2013 i.e., you\u2019ll check your emails during a set 30-minute period every day, and then close that laptop!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-light-grey-background-color has-background\">Thinking of embarking on a solo career? <a href=\"https:\/\/www.rbcroyalbank.com\/en-ca\/my-money-matters\/business\/right-sized-business-advice\/solo-entrepreneur\/\" data-dig-id=\"LP-87872-8d701d69\" data-dig-category=\"LP\" data-dig-action=\"link click\" data-dig-label=\"Follow these tips\" class=\"rbc-link-format\">Follow these tips<\/a> and be sure to check out our business owner resources that can help guide you through every stage.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-rbc-rbc-default-collapsible\"><p><button class=\"collapse-toggle collapsed\" data-target=\"#collapse834a1009\" data-toggle=\"collapse\" aria-expanded=\"false\" aria-controls=\"collapse834a1009\" data-dig-id=\"LP-57738-834a1009\" data-dig-category=\"LP\" data-dig-action=\"accordion closed\" action-closed=\"accordion closed\" action-opened=\"accordion open\" data-dig-label=\"Things our lawyers want you to know\"><span>Things our lawyers want you to know<\/span><span>Things our lawyers want you to know<\/span><\/button><\/p><div class=\"collapse-content collapse\" id=\"collapse834a1009\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-rbc-collapsible-inner-block collapse-inner\">\n<p>This article is intended as general information only and is not to be relied upon as constituting legal, financial or other professional advice. A professional advisor should be consulted regarding your specific situation. Information presented is believed to be factual and up-to-date but we do not guarantee its accuracy and it should not be regarded as a complete analysis of the subjects discussed. All expressions of opinion reflect the judgment of the authors as of the date of publication and are subject to change. No endorsement of any third parties or their advice, opinions, information, products or services is expressly given or implied by Royal Bank of Canada or any of its affiliates.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\t\n\t<div class=\"wp-block-tk-spacer id-dd103f7a-2801-44dc-979e-e3a7584c9e99\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/div>\n\t\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-center h5 mar-b\"><strong>Share This Article<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n\t\t<div class=\"socials-block\">\n\t\t\t    <div class=\"social-links mob-mar-b-hlf mob-mar-t-hlf\">\n            <a class=\"social-button-wrapper sharing-custom sharing-email\" href=\"mailto:?subject=The Joys and Pitfalls of Being Self-Employed: 10 Dos and Don&#8217;ts for Success &#038;body=Hi, I thought you might be interested in this article from RBC My Money Matters: https:\/\/www.rbcroyalbank.com\/en-ca\/my-money-matters\/business\/right-sized-business-advice\/solo-entrepreneur\/the-joys-and-pitfalls-of-being-self-employed-10-dos-and-donts-for-success\/\">\n       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\t\t<\/div>\n\n\t\t\n\n\t\n\t<div class=\"wp-block-tk-spacer id-4dd42355-5503-46e6-ab26-bee73a96b140\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/div>\n\t\n\n\n\t\t\t<div class=\"wp-block-rbc-single-post-topics related-topics-links\">\n\t\t\t\t<p class=\"h5 mar-r-hlf\">Topics:<\/p>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.rbcroyalbank.com\/en-ca\/my-money-matters\/topic\/entrepreneur\/\" class=\"btn topic mar-t-0 mar-r-qtr mar-b-hlf\">Entrepreneur<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n<\/section>\n\n\n\n<section class=\"wp-block-rbc-section-block  pos-rel mob-pad-t-dbl\" style=\"border-radius:0px\">\n<div class=\"wp-block-rbc-section-inner-block  section-inner\" style=\"border-radius:0x\">\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading mar-b mob-mar-b-dbl mar-t-0\" id=\"h-read-this-next\">Read This Next<\/h2>\n\n\n\t\t\t<div class=\"related-posts-type-2\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"related-post-list\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<ul class=\"grid-wpr eh-wpr\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<li class= 'grid-one-third grid-tb-full grid-mob-full mar-b'>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<article class=\"col-wpr mar-b-0 mar-r-0 mar-l-0\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"postcard-img-ctr post-card-image col-md-12 col-xs-6 mob-mar-b-0 pad-l-0\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"540\" src=\"https:\/\/www.rbcroyalbank.com\/en-ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/12\/2026\/03\/5-Myths-Image.jpg?quality=80&amp;w=1024\" class=\"attachment-post-thumbnail size-post-thumbnail wp-post-image\" alt=\"Professional business woman reviewing inventory\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.rbcroyalbank.com\/en-ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/12\/2026\/03\/5-Myths-Image.jpg 4096w, https:\/\/www.rbcroyalbank.com\/en-ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/12\/2026\/03\/5-Myths-Image.jpg?resize=300,158 300w, https:\/\/www.rbcroyalbank.com\/en-ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/12\/2026\/03\/5-Myths-Image.jpg?resize=768,405 768w, 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col-xs-6\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a class=\"primary-taxonomy primary-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.rbcroyalbank.com\/en-ca\/my-money-matters\/business\/right-sized-business-advice\/solo-entrepreneur\/\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\tSolo Entrepreneur\t\t\t\t\t<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<a href=\"https:\/\/www.rbcroyalbank.com\/en-ca\/my-money-matters\/business\/right-sized-business-advice\/solo-entrepreneur\/top-tax-deductions-for-freelancers-side-hustlers-and-self-employed-are-you-missing-out\/\" class=\"card-title h4 mar-t-0\">Top Tax Deductions for Freelancers, Side-hustlers, and Self-employed: Are You Missing Out?<\/a>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/article>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/li>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/ul>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<style class=\"advgb-styles-renderer\">\n\t\t.wp-block-tk-spacer.id-dd103f7a-2801-44dc-979e-e3a7584c9e99 {\n\t\theight: 96px;\n\t}\n\n\t@media ( max-width: 480px ) 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Following these dos and don\u2019ts can help set yourself up for future successes and a lifelong career path that enables you to do what you love.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":80,"featured_media":87874,"parent":57339,"menu_order":0,"template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"advgb_blocks_editor_width":"","advgb_blocks_columns_visual_guide":"","footnotes":""},"tags":[157],"rbc_content_type":[31],"rbc_audience":[110],"rbc_lob_group":[35],"rbc_difficulty_level":[33],"rbc_mmm_category":[305,384,324,392],"class_list":["post-87872","rbc_my_money_matter","type-rbc_my_money_matter","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","tag-entrepreneur","rbc_content_type-article","rbc_audience-business-owners","rbc_lob_group-business","rbc_difficulty_level-beginner","rbc_mmm_category-business","rbc_mmm_category-business-planning","rbc_mmm_category-managing-your-business","rbc_mmm_category-solo-entrepreneur"],"acf":{"contently_publication_id":"","custom_author":"Royal Bank of Canada","rbc_video_header":"","rbc_media_duration":"","rbc_toc_for_mmm_tag":"h2","rbc_toc_for_mmm_limit":6,"rbc_toc_for_mmm":null,"rbc_toc_for_mmm_action":""},"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v26.7 (Yoast SEO v26.8) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-premium-wordpress\/ -->\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Being self-employed can offer exceptional rewards, flexibility and earning potential. Following these dos and don\u2019ts can help set yourself up for future successes and a lifelong career path that enables you to do what you love.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.rbcroyalbank.com\/en-ca\/my-money-matters\/business\/right-sized-business-advice\/solo-entrepreneur\/the-joys-and-pitfalls-of-being-self-employed-10-dos-and-donts-for-success\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Being self-employed can offer exceptional rewards, flexibility and earning potential. 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