How to Master Taxes & Money as a PMU Artist: Lessons from Tax Pro Mark Rizzo

Let’s be real—most of us didn’t get into permanent makeup because we love taxes.

But the truth is, if you're building a PMU business, you have to get smart with your money. That’s why in this special episode of the Tatter-a-Fact Podcast, Teryn Darling sat down with tax expert and entrepreneur Mark Rizzo to break down everything PMU artists should know about finances, taxes, and long-term wealth.

Mark is not your average tax guy—he’s been guiding creatives, artists, and business owners for decades, and he actually loves talking about taxes. (Weird flex, but we’re here for it.)

Whether you're just starting out or growing fast, here’s a breakdown of the most powerful money advice from this conversation.

🧾 1. Claiming All Your Income Is a Power Move—Not a Pain

Let’s talk about cash.

Many PMU artists still get paid in cash—and some only report what hits their bank account. But Mark makes it clear: not claiming all your income can hurt you more than help you. It can disqualify you from buying a home, affect your interest rates, and paint you as a “high risk” to lenders.

💬 “If you’re paying taxes, it means you’re successful. It means you’re making money. That’s something to be proud of.” – Mark Rizzo

💼 2. You Need to Be an LLC. Here’s Why.

If you’re a solo artist, Mark recommends setting up an LLC (Limited Liability Company) as your first step. It gives you protection from lawsuits and keeps your business and personal assets separate.

Later, you can decide if you want to be taxed as an S Corp—which may save you on self-employment tax. But start with the LLC.

✅ Bonus Tip: You don’t have to be making a ton of money to become an LLC. In fact, the earlier you start, the easier it is to build good habits.

📊 3. Know Your Numbers (Even If You're Creative)

If you want to grow your PMU business, you need to know:

• How much money you’re bringing in

• What you’re spending it on

• What your profit margins are

Set up a Profit & Loss statement (P&L) or hire a bookkeeper to do it for you. Mark recommends using simple tools like QuickBooks or even filing monthly receipts into folders—whatever keeps you organized and audit-ready.

💬 “The more organized you are, the less tax you pay—legally.” – Mark Rizzo

💡 4. Want to Pay Less Tax? Stay Organized.

If you're not keeping receipts, tracking expenses, and planning ahead, you could be paying way more in taxes than necessary. Mark suggests:

• Paying quarterly taxes

• Writing off all legit business expenses (yes, meals too!)

• Saving copies of Amazon orders, handwritten notes on receipts, and everything in between

📌 Pro Tip: Write the purpose of a business meal or meeting on the receipt so you have a paper trail.

🏠 5. Pay Off Your Mortgage Early

Mark drops one of the most powerful mindset shifts in this episode: pay off your mortgage early.
Why? Because every extra dollar you pay on your mortgage saves you thousands in interest.

💬 “You’re not just buying one home—you’re paying for two if you stretch it over 30 years.” – Mark Rizzo

Teryn shares how she and her partner Kat paid off their home in just six years by staying laser-focused and frugal. It’s a reminder that financial freedom doesn’t mean earning millions—it means being smart with what you have.

🏦 6. Build Your Own Retirement Plan—Don’t Rely on the Government

Waiting for Social Security? Don’t.

Mark strongly recommends opening a Roth IRA or a Roth 401(k) if your employer offers it. Unlike traditional retirement plans, a Roth allows your money to grow tax-free—which can save you a massive amount in your retirement years.

📈 The Goal:

• Paid-off home

• Fully funded Roth IRA

• Passive income (like rentals or investments)

✨ Final Thoughts: You Don’t Have to Be Rich to Be Smart

This episode wasn’t just about taxes—it was about empowerment.
You don’t have to be a finance expert or make six figures to make good money decisions. You just need to start now. Get organized. Find honest professionals. Track your numbers. And claim your full power—not just as a PMU artist, but as a business owner.

🎧 Listen to the Full Episode:

Tatter-a-Fact PMU Podcast – Taxes, Retirement & Wealth-Building Tips for PMU Artists

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