Tax Tips for Hairstylists & Salon Owners | Brunswick + Jacksonville

Being a hairstylist, barber, or salon owner is about so much more than scissors and style—it’s about running a business. You juggle appointments, customer service, inventory, and social media all at once. And when tax season arrives, it can feel like the last thing you want to think about.

At Emerald Tax & Accounting, we understand the unique challenges beauty professionals face because we’ve spent over 20 years helping stylists and small businesses in Jacksonville—and starting January 1, 2026, we’ll also be serving entrepreneurs right here in Brunswick, GA.

If you’re a hairstylist or beauty professional making under $200,000 annually, here’s how you can stop dreading tax season and start using it to your advantage.

Running a salon is more than style—it’s running a business.

Why Hairstylists Struggle With Taxes

Unlike traditional employees, many hairstylists are independent contractors or booth renters. That means:

• You don’t have taxes automatically withheld from your pay.
  

• You’re responsible for quarterly estimated taxes.
  

• You need to track cash tips and card income carefully.
  

• Your deductible expenses are higher—but only if you document them properly.
  
  Without a system, many beauty pros end up paying too much—or worse, risking IRS penalties for underreporting. Emerald Tax and Accounting’s mission is to change that by offering clear, personalized strategies that help stylists keep more of what they earn.

Common Tax Deductions for Hairstylists & Salon Pros

Here are the most common deductions beauty professionals in Jacksonville and Brunswick should be tracking:

Tools of the Trade – Scissors, clippers, blow dryers, brushes, curling irons, and other essential equipment.

Supplies – Shampoo, conditioner, color, styling products, lash kits, makeup palettes.

Chair or Booth Rental Fees – Monthly payments to your salon owner or studio.

Continuing Education – Training courses, certifications, workshops to improve your skills.

Licensing & Insurance – State licensing fees and liability insurance.

Marketing & Branding – Instagram ads, business cards, website hosting, scheduling apps.

Travel – Mileage for house calls, weddings, or on-site styling gigs.

Uniforms & Attire – Clothing required for work (if not everyday wear).

Every one of these deductions can reduce your taxable income—sometimes by thousands of dollars. But only if you’re tracking them properly and filing with confidence.

Jacksonville vs. Brunswick: Local Examples

• In Jacksonville, stylists often rent chairs in larger salons and may pay higher booth rental fees. That’s a significant tax write-off—but many stylists don’t claim it correctly.

• In Brunswick, many hairstylists operate in smaller salons or as mobile stylists. For them, mileage, travel, and supply deductions are huge opportunities.
  
  Emerald Tax and Accounting knows the local industries and makes sure both Jacksonville and Brunswick professionals get the most from their tax strategies.

Year-Round Tax Planning for Stylists

The biggest mistake stylists make? Waiting until April 15th. Taxes aren’t just a once-a-year task—they’re a year-round strategy.

Here’s how Emerald Tax and Accounting helps:

• Setting up a simple bookkeeping system that tracks income and expenses.

• Helping you plan for quarterly estimated tax payments so you’re never surprised.

• Making sure you’re compliant with state and federal rules.

• Reviewing your unique situation (solo stylist, booth renter, salon owner) and tailoring advice.

We don’t just file your taxes—we help you run your business smarter.

Emerald Tax and Accounting Values: Built for Small Businesses Like Yours

At Emerald Tax & Accounting, we believe every business matters, whether you’re making $50K, $150K, or just getting started.

Our values are simple.

Clarity – No confusing tax jargon.

Trust – With 20+ years of experience, we’ve built long-term relationships based on results.

Service – You’re not a number. You’re a partner in building financial stability.

Whether you’re styling in Brunswick, coloring in Jacksonville, or doing makeup on the road, Emerald Tax and Accounting is here to help you thrive.

Ready to Take the Stress Out of Tax Season?

📍 Our new Brunswick office opens January 1, 2026. We’ll continue serving Jacksonville with the same personalized service that’s built our reputation for over two decades.

👉 Call us today: (904) 604-6944

Because at Emerald Tax and Accounting, your business may be small, but your goals are big—and we’re here to help you reach them.