Self-Employed Tax Calculator (Updated for 2026)
Self-employed workers need to plan for both income tax and self-employment tax. This guide shows what to estimate first so you can avoid underpayment surprises.
What to include in your estimateOpen details+
Start with expected annual net business income, then include federal income tax, self-employment tax, and your state tax estimate.
How often to make paymentsOpen details+
Most self-employed workers pay quarterly estimates. A practical method is setting aside tax money from each client payment.
Common mistake to avoidOpen details+
Many workers estimate only federal income tax and forget self-employment tax. Always model both.
Frequently asked questions
Is this a tax filing tool?Open details+
No. It is an estimate and planning tool to help you set aside enough for taxes.
Do I need quarterly payments every year?Open details+
Many self-employed workers do, but requirements depend on your tax situation and prior-year payments.
People also ask
How much should freelancers save for taxes?Open details+
A common approach is a fixed savings percentage of each payment, then recalibrate quarterly based on actual income.
Can self-employment taxes change if my W-2 wages are high?Open details+
Yes, prior wage income can affect Social Security wage-base exposure.
People also use
Use these calculators to turn the guide into a more specific estimate for your pay, filing status, and state.