Skip to content

Self-Employment Tax Calculator

Calculate your self-employment tax, quarterly payments, and estimated total tax.

2026 Tax Rates: SE tax 15.3%, Social Security wage base $168,600. This calculator provides estimates—consult a tax professional for your specific situation.

Enter Your Income Details

$

Gross income minus business expenses (Schedule C net profit)

$

Include W-2 wages, interest, etc. for better income tax estimate

How Self-Employment Tax Works

SE Tax = Net Income × 0.9235 × 15.3%

The 92.35% factor simulates the employer half deduction that W-2 employees receive. You can also deduct half of your SE tax when calculating income tax.

2026 Federal Tax Brackets (Single)

Income Rate
$0 - $11,600 10%
$11,601 - $47,150 12%
$47,151 - $100,525 22%
$100,526 - $191,950 24%
$191,951 - $243,725 32%
$243,726 - $609,350 35%
$609,351+ 37%

Note: These are marginal rates. Self-employment tax (15.3%) is separate and in addition to income tax.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is self-employment tax?
Self-employment tax is Social Security (12.4%) and Medicare (2.9%) taxes for people who work for themselves. Total: 15.3%. Employees split this with employers; self-employed pay both halves.
How is self-employment tax calculated?
SE Tax = Net Self-Employment Income × 92.35% × 15.3%. The 92.35% adjustment (multiplying by 0.9235) mimics the employer portion deduction. You can also deduct half of SE tax from income tax.
Do I have to pay quarterly taxes?
If you expect to owe $1,000+ in taxes for the year, you should make quarterly estimated payments. Due dates: April 15, June 15, September 15, January 15. Avoid underpayment penalties.
Can I reduce self-employment tax?
Legitimate deductions reduce your net income and thus SE tax. Options: Home office deduction, health insurance premiums, retirement contributions (SEP-IRA, Solo 401k), business expenses. An S-Corp election may help high earners.
What's the self-employment tax rate for 2026?
The SE tax rate is 15.3% (12.4% Social Security + 2.9% Medicare). Social Security applies up to $168,600 in 2024. Above that, only the 2.9% Medicare portion applies. Additional 0.9% Medicare on income over $200,000.
Is self-employment tax in addition to income tax?
Yes. You pay BOTH self-employment tax (15.3%) AND federal income tax (10-37% depending on bracket). The good news: you can deduct half of SE tax when calculating income tax.

Ready to Start Your Business?

Calculate your startup costs and get state-specific requirements in minutes.

Calculate Costs Browse Businesses