Free · 2025 · 15.3% SE tax
Self-Employment Tax
Calculator
Estimate your self-employment tax and income tax as a freelancer or 1099 contractor — with the standard deduction.
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Your income
Uses 2025 single standard deduction ($14,600), 15.3% SE tax (12.4% SS up to $168,600 + 2.9% Medicare), and income brackets. Half of SE tax is deductible.
Your tax
Estimated total tax
$15,200
≈ $46,800 take-home
SE tax
$7,956
Income tax
$7,300
Effective
21.3%
Net profit$52,000
SE tax (15.3%)$7,956
Income tax$7,300
Take-home$46,800
Self-employed? Set aside ~25–30% of income for taxes and pay quarterly estimated tax to avoid penalties.
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Self-employment tax FAQ
How is self-employment tax calculated?
Self-employment tax is 15.3% of your net earnings (Social Security 12.4% + Medicare 2.9%). You deduct half of it above the line, and you also pay income tax on your net profit.
What is the self-employment tax rate?
15.3% total: 12.4% for Social Security (up to the $168,600 wage base) plus 2.9% for Medicare. An extra 0.9% Medicare applies above $200,000.
Can I deduct half of self-employment tax?
Yes — you can deduct the employer-equivalent half of self-employment tax when calculating your income tax, reducing your taxable income.
What expenses can I deduct?
Home office, equipment, software, internet, travel, professional services, insurance and more — anything ordinary and necessary for your business.
Do I need to pay quarterly estimated taxes?
Yes, if you expect to owe $1,000 or more in tax. Estimated payments are due quarterly (April, June, September, January).
How accurate is this calculator?
It estimates federal self-employment and income tax with the standard deduction. State taxes and itemized deductions are not included — verify with a professional.
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