Record Keeping for Writers: The Essentials

You’re a writer—and like most writers, you probably keep a copy of every story you’ve ever written. Chances are, your computer (and maybe even a few drawers or boxes) is filled with files and folders brimming with creativity: Story ideas, outlines, character sketches, and snippets of dialogue scribbled on sticky notes. Maybe you even have printed drafts in every stage of editing, from rough beginnings to polished masterpieces.

Writers are meticulous when it comes to their craft—but that same care and organization should extend to another, often overlooked area: Your business records.

Whether you’ve already published your work or are preparing to, it’s essential to treat your writing as the business it is. That means keeping track of your expenses, income, and receipts—yes, all the seemingly mundane stuff that makes most creatives groan. But trust me, your future self (and your accountant) will thank you.

A simple spreadsheet is often all you need to track your finances. It doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming, but it does need to be consistent.

Here’s why keeping solid business records matters:

💼 1. Writing is a business.

Just like any other enterprise, you should know where your money is going and what’s coming in. Proper records let you see, at a glance, whether you’re making a profit or loss, which books or services are performing best, and where you might cut costs or invest more strategically.

🏦 2. You’ll need documentation if you ever apply for a business loan.

Having accurate balance sheets and income statements gives you credibility and demonstrates that you’re serious about your career as an author. Financial institutions (and potential partners) love to see clear, organized records.

💰 3. It helps you separate personal from business expenses.

Keeping detailed records makes tax time much easier. It allows you to distinguish between deductible and non-deductible expenses—everything from printer paper and ink cartridges to conference fees, professional memberships, and book contest entries. In many cases, these deductions can save you money.

⏰ 4. It saves time—and your sanity—later.

Spending just a few minutes each day recording transactions is far easier than trying to reconstruct months of financial activity at tax time. Keeping up with receipts as they come in helps prevent panic when deadlines approach and lets you focus on what you actually love: writing.

Of course, every writer’s financial situation is different, and tax laws vary by region. If you’re uncertain about what’s deductible or how to organize your records, it’s always wise to consult a qualified tax professional.

Maintaining your business records may not be as exciting as crafting your next great story, but it’s an investment in your long-term success as an author. With a little consistency and organization, you’ll gain peace of mind—and more time to do what you do best: Write!

by A. Piper Burgi

Piper is the award-winning author of The Country Girl Empress series. When she isn't busy typing on her computer, she can be found chasing after her furry children or holding on tightly to a good cup of coffee. Follow her on LinkedIn, Facebook, Medium, and Goodreads