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EspañolSelf-employment tax calculator
Enter your net earnings from self-employment, your income minus business expenses. The calculator shows the Social Security and Medicare tax, the half you can deduct and a quarterly estimate.
How much self-employment tax do I owe?
Everything happens on your device: nothing is uploaded to the internet.
2026 Social Security wage base of $184,500. Income tax is separate. This is an estimate, not tax advice.
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Self-employment tax calculator: what it is for
Freelancers, contractors and small business owners pay both halves of Social Security and Medicare as self-employment tax. Enter your net earnings and the calculator applies the 15.3% rate on 92.35% of your profit, the Social Security wage base and the additional Medicare tax, and shows the half you can deduct on your return.
It also suggests a quarterly estimated payment.
How to use
- Enter your net self-employment earnings.
- Enter any W-2 wages you also earned.
- See your SE tax and quarterly payment.
When to use it
- Planning quarterly estimated taxes.
- Setting freelance rates.
- Comparing W-2 and 1099 offers.
Frequently asked questions
What is self-employment tax?
It is Social Security and Medicare tax for people who work for themselves. Employees split it with their employer; self-employed people pay both halves: 12.4% for Social Security and 2.9% for Medicare, 15.3% in total.
Is it charged on all my income?
It is charged on 92.35% of your net earnings. Social Security only applies up to the wage base ($184,500 in 2026), while Medicare has no limit and an extra 0.9% above $200,000 for single filers.
Do I have to pay quarterly?
If you expect to owe $1,000 or more for the year, the IRS expects estimated payments four times a year (April, June, September and January). Self-employment tax is paid together with your income tax.
Is it really free?
Yes, 100% free. No sign-up, no subscription and no usage limits. All Tools123 tools are free and run right in your browser.