1099 Self-Employment Tax Calculator
Estimate self-employment tax, federal income tax, and quarterly payments on your 1099 income. US single-filer estimate only.
- Net earnings
- $75,000.00
- Self-employment tax (15.3%)
- $10,597.16
- Est. federal income tax
- $8,114.00
- Total estimated tax
- $18,711.16
- Quarterly payment
- $4,677.79
Estimates only, not tax advice. Consult a tax professional. Federal only, excludes state tax. Based on 2026 single-filer estimates with a standard deduction; your actual liability depends on deductions, credits, and filing status.
How 1099 taxes work
As a 1099 contractor you owe two federal taxes. First, self-employment tax — 15.3% on 92.35% of your net earnings (income minus business expenses) — which covers Social Security and Medicare. Second, federal income tax, calculated on your net earnings after the standard deduction using the progressive brackets.
Because no employer withholds for you, the IRS expects quarterly estimated payments — roughly a quarter of your total annual tax each period. This tool adds the two taxes together and divides by four to suggest a payment, so you can set the money aside as you earn it.
Estimates only, not tax advice. Consult a tax professional. Federal only, excludes state tax. Figures use simplified 2026 single-filer assumptions; your actual liability depends on filing status, deductions, and credits.
Setting your rate as a freelancer? Pair this with the freelance rate calculator or browse all finance tools.
FAQ
How much should I set aside for 1099 taxes?▾
A common rule of thumb is 25–30% of your net 1099 income for federal taxes, covering both self-employment tax and income tax. This calculator gives a sharper estimate by separating the two, but always round up and keep a buffer.
What is self-employment tax?▾
Self-employment tax is Social Security and Medicare for the self-employed — 15.3% applied to 92.35% of your net earnings. Employees split this with their employer; as a 1099 contractor you pay both halves.
When are quarterly estimated taxes due?▾
Federal estimated payments are generally due in four installments — mid-April, mid-June, mid-September, and mid-January of the following year. Paying roughly a quarter of your estimated annual tax each period helps you avoid underpayment penalties.
Does this include state taxes?▾
No. This is a federal-only estimate. Most states also tax self-employment income, so add your state's rate separately. A few states have no income tax at all.
How accurate is this estimate?▾
It is a simplified single-filer estimate using approximate 2026 brackets and the standard deduction. Your real liability depends on filing status, dependents, credits, retirement contributions, and itemized deductions. Treat it as a planning guide, not a filing figure.