Freelance & Self-Employed · 2026

Self-Employed Tax Calculator

Being your own boss has tax implications — but also significant deductions. This calculator figures your self-employment tax (SE tax), the 50% deduction, federal and state income tax, and estimates your quarterly payment requirements for 2026. Understand exactly what you'll owe and plan accordingly.

Educational Use Only This tool provides educational self-employment tax estimation only. Self-employment tax rules are complex. For personalized tax advice, a CPA or enrolled agent, consult a licensed tax professional.

Self-Employed Tax Estimator

Net Self-Employment Income ($)

Your net business income after expenses

Filing Status

State

Other Income ($)

W-2 wages, interest, dividends, etc.

Other Deductions ($)

Above-the-line deductions (IRA, student loans, etc.)

Self-Employed Tax Breakdown

Net Self-Employment Income$0
SE Tax (15.3% on first $168,600)$0
50% SE Tax Deduction$0
Federal Income Tax$0
State Income Tax$0
Total Tax Liability$0
Net After All Taxes$0
Estimated Quarterly Payment$0

* Estimate assumes no advance EITC, child tax credits, or other credits. Your actual tax may differ significantly.

Example Self-Employed Scenarios

Freelance Designer · $60,000

$10,262tax

$9,180 SE tax + $3,633 fed income tax minus $4,551 deduction. Texas, no state tax.

Consultant · $120,000

$28,076tax

$18,346 SE tax + $14,034 fed tax minus $4,304 50% deduction. California.

Uber Driver · $40,000

$5,714tax

$6,120 SE tax + $1,272 fed tax minus $1,646 deduction. Florida, no state tax.

Contractor · $200,000

$57,882tax

$27,776 SE tax + $43,671 fed tax minus $6,725 deduction. Includes 2.9% Medicare over wage base.

Calculation Methodology

Data Source: IRS Publication 533 (Self-Employment Tax), IRS Publication 505 (Tax Withholding and Estimated Tax). Last Updated: July 2026.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the self-employment tax rate for 2026?

The self-employment tax rate is 15.3% on net earnings up to $168,600 (consisting of 12.4% Social Security + 2.9% Medicare). Above $168,600, only the 2.9% Medicare portion applies with no cap.

How does the 50% SE deduction work?

You can deduct 50% of your self-employment tax from your income tax. This means you effectively get back half of the SE tax on your income tax return, reducing your overall tax burden.

Do I need to pay quarterly estimated taxes?

Yes. If you expect to owe $1,000 or more in taxes, you must make quarterly estimated tax payments. Payments are due April 15, June 15, September 15, and January 15 (next year).

What expenses can self-employed deduct?

Common deductible expenses include: home office, mileage, equipment, office supplies, travel, meals (50%), internet, phone, and professional services. Keep records to substantiate all deductions.

How is SE tax different from FICA?

FICA is paid half by you and half by your employer (7.65% each). Self-employed individuals pay the full 15.3% themselves. However, the 50% deduction and income tax deductions help offset the burden.