AFM Indie

Tax season is here again, and that means musicians must turn their attention from counting bars to counting earnings. Freelance musicians should be especially aware this time of year. An independent musician’s tax return can be somewhat complicated because most self-employed artists get paid with “gross” dollars with no taxes withheld. This requires them to be disciplined enough to save and prepare for April 15.

If you’re a US citizen, remember that your worldwide income from all sources is considered taxable income. Income you receive from club dates, wedding gigs, music lessons, session work, drum-loop programming, royalties, or any other music related or nonmusic related work, is also taxable income. (more…)

by Liana White, AFM Canada Director Administration and Services, and Steve Gelfand, AFM Director of Touring/Theatre/Booking

If you plan on performing outside of your country, you must have all personal identification and travel documents in order, and specifically, ensure you have obtained the appropriate work permits.

The AFM assists US and Canadian musicians, and those from abroad, to obtain the appropriate North American work permits for bookings outside of their home country. (more…)