Your Bookkeeping Matters

Paying Yourself as a Sole Trader

January 31, 2024 Lisa Turner Episode 80
Paying Yourself as a Sole Trader
Your Bookkeeping Matters
More Info
Your Bookkeeping Matters
Paying Yourself as a Sole Trader
Jan 31, 2024 Episode 80
Lisa Turner

As a small business owner, it is crucial to wear many hats and outsource areas that require expertise. However, one aspect that often gets overlooked is paying yourself. Though it might not initially appear as a top priority, paying yourself serves as both a reward for your efforts and a means of securing a financial return from your business.

So, How Much Should You Pay Yourself? Unfortunately, there is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. The amount you pay yourself depends on various factors such as your sales, expenses, and upcoming financial obligations. I’ll guide you through the variables to consider and provide tips on how to determine the right amount to pay yourself.

Once you have determined how much to pay yourself, it is crucial to understand the process of actually withdrawing the funds. I’ll walk you through the steps of withdrawing money from your business bank account and transferring it to your personal account. I also highlight the often-overlooked issue of superannuation and the need to address it as a sole trader. 

Tax implications are another critical consideration. We'll explore income taxes and emphasize the importance of setting aside funds for tax obligations. I'll clarify the distinction between owner drawings and wages, and dispel the misconception that sole traders can't hire team members. You definitely can employ others, you just cannot employ yourself.

Paying yourself as a sole trader is an integral part of running a successful business. It not only rewards your hard work but also ensures the viability of your venture. While there's no magic formula, my goal is to leave you feeling confident in navigating the complexities of compensating yourself effectively as a sole trader.


Connect with Lisa Turner:

 Join the waitlist for The Bookkeeping Matters Blueprint here

Instagram:     @accountedforyou

Website:         https://accountedforyou.com.au/

 Join my Numbers List for small business news and fun, helpful tips here

Grab some FREE Resources here

Check out my blog here

Show Notes

As a small business owner, it is crucial to wear many hats and outsource areas that require expertise. However, one aspect that often gets overlooked is paying yourself. Though it might not initially appear as a top priority, paying yourself serves as both a reward for your efforts and a means of securing a financial return from your business.

So, How Much Should You Pay Yourself? Unfortunately, there is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. The amount you pay yourself depends on various factors such as your sales, expenses, and upcoming financial obligations. I’ll guide you through the variables to consider and provide tips on how to determine the right amount to pay yourself.

Once you have determined how much to pay yourself, it is crucial to understand the process of actually withdrawing the funds. I’ll walk you through the steps of withdrawing money from your business bank account and transferring it to your personal account. I also highlight the often-overlooked issue of superannuation and the need to address it as a sole trader. 

Tax implications are another critical consideration. We'll explore income taxes and emphasize the importance of setting aside funds for tax obligations. I'll clarify the distinction between owner drawings and wages, and dispel the misconception that sole traders can't hire team members. You definitely can employ others, you just cannot employ yourself.

Paying yourself as a sole trader is an integral part of running a successful business. It not only rewards your hard work but also ensures the viability of your venture. While there's no magic formula, my goal is to leave you feeling confident in navigating the complexities of compensating yourself effectively as a sole trader.


Connect with Lisa Turner:

 Join the waitlist for The Bookkeeping Matters Blueprint here

Instagram:     @accountedforyou

Website:         https://accountedforyou.com.au/

 Join my Numbers List for small business news and fun, helpful tips here

Grab some FREE Resources here

Check out my blog here