Self-Employment Tax Calculator
Calculate your Social Security and Medicare self-employment taxes. See your total SE tax, the deductible half, and your effective rate. All calculations happen right here in your browser — your numbers never leave your device, and there is nothing to sign up for.
Self-Employment Tax Calculator
Calculate your Social Security and Medicare taxes as a freelancer or self-employed individual.
Your profit after business expenses (Schedule C line 31)
Affects Additional Medicare Tax threshold
W-2 wages reduce your Social Security wage base cap
Social Security Tax
$8,589
12.4% of $69,263
Medicare Tax
$2,009
2.9% of $69,263
Additional Medicare Tax
$0
Applies when income exceeds $200,000
Total Self-Employment Tax
$10,597
Combined SS + Medicare taxes owed
Deductible Half (Tax Savings)
$5,299
Deduct this from your adjusted gross income
Effective SE Tax Rate
14.1%
Total SE tax as a percentage of net income
How to Use This Calculator
Using this calculator is straightforward. Start by entering your financial information in the fields above. You can adjust any value at any time and the results will update instantly — there is no submit button to press.
- Fill in each field with your best estimates. Exact numbers are great, but reasonable approximations work well too.
- Review the results section that appears below the inputs. Each number is labeled so you know exactly what it represents.
- Try different scenarios by adjusting your inputs. This is a great way to understand how changes in income or expenses affect your bottom line.
- Use the results to plan ahead — whether that means setting aside money for quarterly taxes, adjusting your rates, or identifying deductions you may have missed.
Understanding Your Results
The results above give you a clear snapshot of your financial situation based on the numbers you entered. Here is how to make the most of them:
Look at the big picture first. Start with the summary totals before diving into line-by-line details. This gives you a sense of where you stand overall.
Compare scenarios. Try changing your inputs to see how different situations play out. What happens if your income increases? What if you claim an additional deduction? Playing with the numbers helps you make informed decisions.
Use this as a starting point. These calculations are based on general federal rules and standard rates. Your actual tax situation may differ based on your state, filing status, and specific circumstances. When in doubt, bring these numbers to a tax professional — they make a great conversation starter.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much is self-employment tax?
Self-employment tax is 15.3% of 92.35% of your net self-employment income. This covers 12.4% for Social Security (up to the wage base limit) and 2.9% for Medicare. You can deduct half of your SE tax from your gross income.
Why is there a 92.35% multiplier?
The 92.35% multiplier (100% - 7.65%) simulates the employer-side tax deduction that W-2 employees get. As a self-employed person, you pay both the employer and employee portions, so the IRS reduces your taxable base by the employer-equivalent share.
Can I deduct self-employment tax?
Yes! You can deduct the employer-equivalent portion (half) of your self-employment tax as an above-the-line deduction on your Form 1040. This reduces your adjusted gross income.
Do I owe Additional Medicare Tax?
If your self-employment income exceeds $200,000 (single) or $250,000 (married filing jointly), you owe an additional 0.9% Medicare tax on the amount above the threshold.