Tax Time

[Dianna Vesta]

Originally posted by Raven@Mar 6 2003, 07:20 PM
I've read on several boards about people having difficulty finding an accountant or tax preparer who doesn't judge what we do for a living.

I now know that I've been fortunate, in that, I have one who is good and doesn't give a rip about the source of the cash.

Her biggest thing with me is that I'm very disorganised when it comes to giving her receipts. They're just thrown into a box. Pisses her off mightily.

Nice article.

Well the biggest problem in the sex industry, or at least in the past, was finding accountants who were up to date on what was deductable or considered a business expense. I know hookers who paid some taxes and printed SEX WORKER on their return under occupation. It may be illegal in that state but the IRS wants their money any way they can get it. back during the day of Xavier Hollander, aka " The Happy Hooker", more sex workers began filing taxes, knowing that was the path to jail. Look at what happened with Heidi Fliess (sp).

When I worked a pro-dom, making movies, writing articles, photos, public speaking, etc. It was all part of The Fetish Network. I was a spokes person. I deducted my clothes, make-up, hair, nails, etc. The "look" was very much part of what I did. Luckily during those early years my husband was a CPA and we spent time investigating. After my divorce and moving on to New York State, it was strange sitting down with a new accountant and trying to explain some of my deductions.

Now it's all cut and dry. But if I do photo shoots, etc. and have to buy clothes or props I write it off. If I had to itemize it it might include;

vibrators, dongs, whips, clips & more. If I ever get audited, I'll have a great time explaining my expenses.

I'm a firm believer in keeping your shit clean. I've been in the sex industry almost 15 years and I plan on staying longer. Cash is easy but you gotta pay taxes and keep your paperwork straight. I know someone who was busted & outta by an enemy. That kind of shit happens. If I do get outted I want to be able to lie all my cards on the table.

BTW: Today you can hire a CPA online. They don't have to be in your same town. It helps if they are in the same state. My CPA handles NY and Fla. I just mail him the stuff.

Dianna