Self-Employment Tax Calculator
Estimate your exact 2026 self-employment taxes (SECA), including Social Security and Medicare deductions. Free 1099 tax calculator for freelancers and contractors.
United States Only
Self-employment taxes follow official United States Internal Revenue Service (IRS) regulations, including Social Security (6.2% employer + 6.2% employee up to the wage base) and Medicare (1.45% + 1.45%). All figures are hardcoded in USD ($).
Includes software, office supplies, travel, hardware, and subcontractor payouts.
Effective SE tax rate on $0.00 net profit (0.00%)
Tax Breakdown (2026 IRS Rules)
Tax Tip: You can deduct half of your total Social Security and Medicare tax ($0.00) on Line 15 of IRS Schedule 1, lowering your federal income tax bracket.
Analytical Logic
2026 Self-Employment & 1099 Tax Guide
When you work as a freelancer, independent contractor, gig worker, or sole proprietor receiving Form 1099-NEC, you are considered both the employee and the employer by the IRS. While W-2 employees only pay 7.65% in payroll taxes because their company matches the other half, self-employed workers must pay the entire 15.3% Self-Employment Contributions Act (SECA) tax themselves.
How Self-Employment Tax is Calculated on Schedule SE
Calculating your true SECA liability requires following a three-step formula set by IRS Schedule SE:
- Determine Net Business Profit: Subtract all allowable, ordinary, and necessary business deductions (software, advertising, travel, equipment) from your gross 1099 revenue on Schedule C.
- Multiply by 92.35%: Multiply your net profit by $0.9235$ to determine your net earnings subject to self-employment tax.
- Apply the 15.3% Rate: Apply $12.4\%$ for Social Security up to the annual wage base limit ($\$176,100$ for 2026) plus $2.9\%$ for Medicare across all earnings.
Optimize Your Salary & Quarterly Withholding
Want to know how your self-employment income compares to a W-2 salary offer or how to structure an S-Corporation salary breakdown? Check out our guide on Salary Negotiation & Marginal vs Effective Tax Brackets.
FAQ
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The calculations, amortization schedules, and financial estimates provided by this tool are strictly for informational and educational purposes. They do not constitute formal investment, tax, legal, or accounting advice. Mortgage rates, loan terms, and tax brackets change frequently; always consult a certified financial planner (CFP), CPA, or licensed lending officer before making major financial commitments.