When Do You Pay Tax on Advance Payments?

If a client pays you in December 2025 for work you won’t finish until 2026, when do you report that income to the government?

The answer depends on how you track your money.

The Two Common Ways to Track Income

1. The "Money in Hand" Way (Cash Method)

Most freelancers and small businesses use this. It’s simple: if you receive the money in 2025, it counts as 2025 income.

The Rule: You pay taxes in the year the money hits your bank account.

The Result: Even if you haven't started the work, that December payment is taxable for 2025.

2. The "Work Completed" Way (Accrual Method)

Larger businesses often use this. They match income to when the job is actually done.

The Rule: You might be able to "pause" the tax and pay it in 2026 when you actually perform the service.

The Result: You can sometimes delay the tax bill by one year.

Quick Summary Table

If you use... Tax is paid in... Why?
Cash Method 2025 You have the cash now.
Accrual Method 2026 (usually) That is when the work happens.

Key Takeaway

If you are a small business owner, expect to pay taxes on that December check this year.

If you want to delay that tax bill, you usually have to wait to receive the payment until January 1st.