Taxes
1099 Tax Calculator (2026)
Estimate what you'll owe on freelance, contractor, gig or creator income — and how much to put aside from every payment.
Everything on your 1099-NEC, 1099-K and unreported side income.
Software, equipment, mileage, home office share, fees.
Use 0 for states with no income tax (TX, FL, WA, NV…).
Estimated tax on your 1099 income
$12,793
Set aside 21.3% of each payment · about $3,198 per quarter
- Net profit
- $52,000
- Self-employment tax
- $7,347
- Federal income tax (on 1099 part)
- $2,846
- State tax (approx.)
- $2,600
- Half-SE-tax deduction
- $3,674
- QBI deduction
- $6,445
How it's calculated
Net profit is income minus expenses. Self-employment tax is 15.3% of 92.35% of net profit (Social Security only up to $184,500 including W-2 wages). Half of it is deducted before income tax. We then subtract the 2026 standard deduction ($16,100 single, $32,200 joint), the optional 20% QBI deduction, and apply 2026 brackets. Federal tax shown is the extra tax your 1099 income adds on top of any W-2 wages.
Simplified: no credits, itemizing, retirement contributions or QBI phase-outs (which start around $200k single). Read 1099 taxes explained for side hustlers or plan payments with the quarterly estimated tax calculator.
Questions
How much should I set aside for 1099 taxes?
Many freelancers need 25–35% of gross 1099 income, but it depends on expenses, other income and your state. The calculator shows your own set-aside percentage.
What is self-employment tax?
Social Security (12.4%) and Medicare (2.9%) that an employer would normally split with you — 15.3% on 92.35% of your net earnings. The Social Security part stops at the 2026 wage base of $184,500, counting W-2 wages first.
Do I have to pay quarterly?
Generally yes, if you expect to owe $1,000 or more when you file. 2026 payments are due April 15, June 15 and September 15, 2026, and January 15, 2027.
What if I also have a W-2 job?
Enter your wages. They push your 1099 income into higher brackets and use up part of the Social Security cap. You can also raise W-2 withholding instead of paying quarterly.
Sources
Educational estimate, not tax advice.