Self-Employed Tax Calculator — 2026 SE Tax + Federal Estimate

How to use

1. Enter expected net self-employment income (revenue minus expenses) for 2026.
2. Add W-2 wages if you also have a job — they reduce the Social-Security-side SE tax.
3. Pick your filing status; edit the state rate if you want a state estimate included.
4. Review the breakdown, effective rate and quarterly due dates — set reminders for each.

General information only — not medical, financial or legal advice. Figures cross-checked against public official sources (IRS / HMRC / NHS / WHO guidance); content last reviewed September 2026. For decisions that matter, confirm with a licensed professional in your country.

About this tool

Freelancers and side-hustlers pay two taxes employees never see separately: self-employment tax (both halves of FICA — 12.4% Social Security on 92.35% of net earnings up to the $184,500 2026 wage base, plus 2.9% Medicare on all of it) and regular federal income tax on what is left. Two built-in breaks soften the blow and this calculator models both: you deduct the employer-equivalent half of SE tax before income tax, and most solo owners qualify for the 20% QBI deduction (simplified here — income thresholds and SSTB limits are not fully modeled). Enter any W-2 wages too: they count against the Social Security cap so you do not overpay SE tax. Results break down each tax, your effective rate, and the four 2026 quarterly estimated-payment due dates. Estimates for planning only — a CPA should confirm your final return.

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