Self-Employment Tax Calculator 2026

Estimate your self-employment tax, federal income tax, and state tax. Use it as a 1099 paycheck calculator to see your take-home pay after all deductions. Built for freelancers, contractors, and gig workers — all calculations run in your browser.

Key Takeaways

  • Self-employment tax rate is 15.3% (12.4% Social Security + 2.9% Medicare) on 92.35% of net income
  • The QBI deduction can reduce your taxable income by up to 20%
  • You can deduct half of your SE tax as an above-the-line adjustment
  • Quarterly estimated payments are required if you expect to owe $1,000+ in taxes
  • Solo 401(k) contributions can reach $69,000 in 2026

A self-employment tax calculator is an essential tool for anyone receiving 1099-NEC or 1099-K income in 2026. It also works as a 1099 take-home pay calculator — showing you exactly what hits your bank account after taxes. Unlike W2 employees whose employers withhold taxes automatically, independent contractors are responsible for paying their own taxes — including the full 15.3% self-employment tax that covers both the employer and employee portions of Social Security and Medicare.

The Qualified Business Income (QBI) deduction can significantly reduce your taxable burden by allowing eligible self-employed individuals to deduct up to 20% of their qualified business income before calculating federal tax. Combined with business expense deductions, retirement contributions to accounts like a Solo 401(k) or SEP IRA, and the deduction for half of your self-employment tax, the effective rate is often much lower than it first appears.

How to Use This Calculator

  1. Step 1 — Enter your total 1099 income for the year and any deductible business expenses like equipment, software, or home office costs.
  2. Step 2 — Add any W2 income if you have a mix of employment types, and enter your retirement contributions to see tax savings.
  3. Step 3 — Select your filing status and state to get accurate federal and state tax estimates.
  4. Step 4 — Review the summary, charts, and quarterly payment breakdown to understand exactly where your money is going.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a 1099 paycheck calculator?

Yes, our free 1099 tax calculator shows your take-home pay after self-employment tax, federal, and state taxes. Unlike W2 employees who receive pay stubs, 1099 contractors need to calculate their own net pay.

How is self-employment tax calculated?

Self-employment tax is 15.3% of 92.35% of your net business income. This covers both Social Security (12.4%) and Medicare (2.9%). You can deduct half of your SE tax on your federal return.

What is the QBI deduction?

The Qualified Business Income (QBI) deduction allows eligible self-employed individuals to deduct up to 20% of their qualified business income.

How do quarterly estimated tax payments work?

If you expect to owe $1,000 or more in taxes, the IRS requires quarterly estimated payments. Due dates are April 15, June 15, September 15, and January 15.

Can I deduct my health insurance premiums?

Yes, self-employed individuals can deduct health insurance premiums as an above-the-line deduction.

What retirement accounts are available for 1099 workers?

Solo 401(k), SEP IRA, and SIMPLE IRA are the main options. A Solo 401(k) allows contributions up to $69,000 in 2026.

Data source: IRS 2026 tax brackets, Social Security Administration wage base, and state revenue department publications. Last reviewed: 2026-07-05.