Calculate your self-employment tax, federal and state income tax, and quarterly estimated payments. Free freelancer tax calculator. All 50 states. No signup.
A freelance developer in San Francisco expects $140,000 in 1099 income and needs to set aside money before her first quarterly payment due April 15.
Result: Calculator shows total tax of $45,000 — about $11,250 per quarter. She opens a separate savings account and automates transfers immediately.
A Tampa-based designer earning $75,000 wants to know if Florida no-state-tax really makes a difference versus moving back to Georgia.
Result: Comparison shows she keeps $4,200 more per year in Florida — confirming her decision to stay.
A teacher in Ohio earning $25,000 from a side consulting business wonders if she needs to pay quarterly taxes or can wait until April.
Result: Calculator shows she owes $5,800 — above the $1,000 threshold requiring quarterly payments to avoid IRS penalties.
The self-employment tax rate is 15.3% — 12.4% for Social Security and 2.9% for Medicare. However, you can deduct half of the SE tax from your gross income.
Quarterly estimated taxes are due April 15, June 15, September 15, and January 15 of the following year.
If you expect to owe at least $1,000 in taxes for the year, you're required to make quarterly estimated tax payments to avoid underpayment penalties.
A common rule is to set aside 25-30% of your freelance income for taxes. Use our calculator to get a precise estimate based on your income and state.
Our calculator provides estimates based on 2026 tax brackets. For precise tax advice, consult a qualified tax professional or CPA.
Freelancers can deduct home office (simplified or actual method), business equipment, software subscriptions, internet costs, professional development, business mileage, and health insurance premiums. These reduce your taxable income and lower both SE tax and income tax.