1. Earned Income
Earned income is the most common type of income and refers to money earned through employment or self-employment. Whether you work for a company or run your own business, the wages, salary, bonuses, commissions, or tips you receive are considered earned income. It is typically reported on a W-2 or 1099 form for tax purposes.
2. Passive Income
Passive income is money earned from activities in which you are not actively involved on a regular basis. This type of income includes rental income from properties, royalties from intellectual property, income from investments in stocks or real estate, or any other venture where you have limited participation. Passive income is an excellent way to earn money with less day-to-day effort, and it can provide financial stability in the long run.
3. Portfolio Income
Portfolio income pertains to the money you earn from investments in the financial markets. This income is derived from interest, dividends, and capital gains on bonds, stocks, mutual funds, and other securities. Unlike passive income, portfolio income requires active management and decision-making regarding the buying and selling of investments to maximize returns.
4. Unearned Income
Unearned income is income that is not derived from work or active participation. It includes income from sources such as inheritances, gifts, lottery winnings, pensions, and government benefits like Social Security or unemployment compensation. This type of income is often not subject to payroll taxes but may be taxable depending on individual circumstances.
5. Residual Income
Residual income is the money you earn consistently over time from a one-time effort. This type of income is associated with activities like creating and selling a product, writing a book, or generating income from a patent or copyright. Once the initial work is done, residual income continues to flow in, creating a passive stream of revenue.
Understanding the different types of income can help you evaluate your financial situation, plan your investments, and make informed decisions about how to maximize your earnings. Whether you earn income through employment, investments, or other sources, diversifying your income streams can provide financial security and stability in the long term.
- Earned income – income earned through employment or self-employment
- Passive income – income generated from activities with limited active involvement
- Portfolio income – income from investments in financial markets
- Unearned income – income not derived from work or active participation
- Residual income – consistent income from a one-time effort
By understanding these different types of income, you can develop a comprehensive strategy to manage your finances and work towards financial success.