Official Site of The State of New Jersey

Are You Self-Employed?

You can work for someone who pays you or you can provide a service, own a business, or own and run a farm. Some examples of self-employment include:

• Hairdressers;
• Landscapers;
• Ride Share drivers;
• Child care providers; and
• Contractors

Be sure to maintain business records throughout the year for which you plan to claim the credit. This is because a taxpayer must prove "earned income" to claim the credit. Business records can include:

• Your Sales Tax Certificate of Authority;
• Your Business License, Permit, or Certificate. (Cosmetology and Hairstyling License or a Home Repair Contractor License issued by the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs)
• Your website address;
• Books, records, or ledgers showing expenses paid (such as supplies) as well as business income earned. Documents that support the entries in the records submitted. For example, cash register receipts, bank statements, invoices, credit card bill statements, etc.;
• Any 1099-MISC statements;
• Copies of bank statements in the business’s name;
• Proof of business advertising.

If you aren’t able to produce adequate business records, we may not be able to approve an NJEITC.