Freelancer Tax Calculator
2026 U.S. Self-Employment Tax Estimator
Please enter a valid income amount
Equipment, software, office supplies, travel, etc.
2026 rates: 10%, 12%, 22%, 24%, 32%, 35%, 37%
Please enter a valid tax rate (0-37%)
Use this Freelancer Income Tax Calculator for 2026 to estimate how much federal tax you may owe as a self-employed individual. This tax calculator is designed for freelancers, independent contractors, gig workers, and side-hustlers who receive 1099 income.
It estimates self-employment tax, federal income tax, and total tax liability based on your net earnings.
Who This Calculator Is For
This calculator is built specifically for:
- Freelancers
- Independent contractors
- Gig workers (Uber, Lyft, DoorDash, Upwork, Fiverr)
- Consultants and solopreneurs
- Anyone earning 1099 income
If you are self-employed, you are responsible for paying your own taxes.
What Taxes Freelancers Pay in 2026
Freelancers typically pay two main federal taxes:
Self-Employment Tax
This covers Social Security and Medicare and is calculated at 15.3% of net income.
Federal Income Tax
This depends on your tax bracket and total taxable income after deductions.
This calculator combines both to give a realistic estimate.
How Freelancer Income Tax Is Calculated
- Start with total freelance income
- Subtract business expenses
- Calculate self-employment tax
- Calculate federal income tax
- Add both taxes for total liability
Common Freelancer Business Expenses
You may reduce taxable income by deducting:
- Home office expenses
- Internet and phone bills
- Software subscriptions
- Advertising and marketing
- Equipment and supplies
- Professional services
Only legitimate business expenses should be deducted.
Why Freelancers Use a Tax Calculator
Freelancers use tax calculators to:
- Estimate quarterly taxes
- Avoid underpayment penalties
- Plan monthly savings
- Understand real take-home income
This helps prevent surprises at tax time.
Important Notes
- This calculator provides estimates, not exact tax bills
- State taxes are not included
- Actual tax liability depends on deductions, credits, and filing status
For precise filing, consult a tax professional.
Related Calculators for Freelancers
To complete your tax planning:
- Self-Employment Tax Calculator
- Estimated Quarterly Tax Calculator
- Federal Income Tax Calculator
- Business Expense Calculator
Final Summary
The Freelancer Income Tax Calculator 2026 helps gig workers and self-employed professionals estimate federal taxes quickly and clearly. By understanding self-employment tax and income tax together, freelancers can plan better, save smarter, and stay compliant.