Kazim Qasim - Crowdfunding

In recent years, raising money online through third-party backers, or crowdfunding, has grown in popularity.  Originally utilized mostly by musicians, filmmakers and for other creative endeavors, it has now become a more widespread method of raising money for a trip, medical expense, or startup, and is often a quicker and easier alternative than conventional fundraising.  Often the creator of a campaign puts little thought to the tax ramifications before launching and collecting the funds.  With this increase in utilization, the business of its taxation has become an increasing question.  While Congress and the IRS have not addressed crowdfunding income specifically, applying standard tax principles and common sense may help when talking through the issues surrounding taxable crowdfunding income and deciding how to report and pay taxes on it.

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