If you are self-employed, you normally carry on a trade or business. Sole proprietors and independent contractors are two types of self-employment. If this applies to you, there are a few basic things you should know about how your income affects your federal tax return. Here are six important tips from the IRS: SE Income. Self-employment can include income you received for part-time work. This is in addition to income from your regular job. Schedule C or C-EZ. You must file