Calculate your federal income tax and self-employment (FICA) tax
As a freelancer, contractor, or self-employed individual in the United States, you're responsible for calculating and paying your own taxes. Unlike traditional employees who have taxes withheld from their paychecks, freelancers must estimate and pay quarterly taxes to the IRS.
1. Federal Income Tax: This is calculated based on your taxable income after deductions, using progressive tax brackets ranging from 10% to 37%.
2. Self-Employment Tax: This covers Social Security (12.4%) and Medicare (2.9%), totaling 15.3% of your net self-employment income. This is equivalent to both the employer and employee portions of FICA taxes.
Our free freelance tax calculator helps you estimate your total tax liability for 2026. Simply enter your gross income and business expenses, and we'll calculate:
The calculator accounts for the standard deduction ($16,100 for single filers in 2026) and the deductible portion of self-employment tax, giving you an accurate estimate of your tax liability.
Freelancers typically make quarterly estimated tax payments to the IRS on these dates:
Use this calculator to estimate your annual tax burden, then divide by four to determine your quarterly payment amounts. Making quarterly payments helps you avoid penalties and manage cash flow throughout the year.
As a self-employed individual, you can deduct ordinary and necessary business expenses, including:
The 2026 tax year includes several updates:
Important: This calculator provides estimates for federal taxes only. State taxes, additional deductions, and tax credits may significantly affect your actual tax liability. Always consult with a qualified tax professional or CPA for personalized advice and to ensure compliance with all tax laws.