Does a credit card payment count as income or spending?

Hello, @lindsay-irvin. It's good to see you on the Community forum. I'll be happy to give information on how to categorize your transactions in QuickBooks Self-Employed correctly.

Categorizing transactions like credit card payments in QuickBooks Self-Employed depends on the Schedule C categories. This will also show you how it  appears in your financial reports.

In your case, you'll want to categorize the credit card payment as a Transfer to keep your accounting clean and accurate. You're instead categorizing the payment you made to your bank or credit card for prior business transactions. You may also review your bank statement for the amount and review the transaction if it's money in or money out. 

To categorize the transaction, follow the steps below:

1. Go to the Transactions menu.
2. Find a transaction on the list.
3. Select Business if the transaction was for business and choose Credit card payment as a category.
4. If you need to change the category, select the category link. Select a general type, and choose a more detailed category.
5. Choose Save.

I also suggest to consult your accountant. They can provide the correct information and accounts to ensure your records are correct. For more information about categorizing transactions and Schedule C categories, open these links:

• Schedule C and expense categories in QuickBooks Self-Employed
• Categorize transactions in QuickBooks Self-Employed

I'll be added these references on how you can add older transactions and how QuickBooks Self-Employed tracks everything throughout the year:

• Add older transactions to QuickBooks Self-Employed
• Overview of QuickBooks Self-Employed

We're always here in the Community to help if you have other questions about managing your bank transactions in QBSE. Keep safe, and have a great day ahead!