1099 Tax Calculator 2026
Calculate taxes for 1099 income, independent contractors, and freelancers. Understand your tax obligations and maximize deductions for the 2026 tax year.
1099 Tax Calculator
1099 Tax Obligations
As a 1099 worker, you must pay:
• Self-employment tax (15.3%)
• Federal income tax
• State income tax (if applicable)
• Quarterly estimated payments
Important Note
Unlike W-2 employees, no taxes are withheld from 1099 income. You must make quarterly estimated tax payments to avoid penalties.
2026 Federal Tax Brackets - Single
| Taxable Income | Tax Rate | Tax Amount |
|---|---|---|
| $0 - $11,600 | 10% | - |
| $11,600 - $47,150 | 12% | - |
| $47,150 - $100,525 | 22% | - |
| $100,525 - $191,950 | 24% | - |
| $191,950 - $243,725 | 32% | - |
| $243,725 - $609,350 | 35% | - |
| $609,350 - ∞ | 37% | - |
1099 Tax Planning Tips
Tax Reduction Strategies
- • Maximize business expense deductions
- • Consider forming an LLC or S-Corp
- • Contribute to retirement accounts (SEP-IRA, Solo 401k)
- • Use health savings accounts (HSA)
- • Track all business-related expenses
Quarterly Payment Tips
- • Set aside 25-30% of income for taxes
- • Use Form 1040-ES for payments
- • Consider using tax software or professionals
- • Keep detailed records of all payments
- • Plan for seasonal income fluctuations
Understanding 1099 Taxes
What is 1099 Income?
1099 income is money you earn as an independent contractor, freelancer, or self-employed individual. Unlike W-2 employees, you receive a Form 1099-NEC instead of a W-2.
This income is subject to both income tax and self-employment tax, but you can deduct business expenses.
Tax Obligations
As a 1099 worker, you must pay income tax on your net earnings and self-employment tax of 15.3%. You're responsible for making quarterly estimated tax payments.
You can deduct half of your self-employment tax from your income tax calculation.
Record Keeping
Maintain detailed records of all income and business expenses. Keep receipts, invoices, and documentation for at least three years after filing your tax return.
Consider using accounting software or working with a tax professional.
Maximizing Your Deductions
Business Expenses
- •Office supplies and equipment
- •Professional development and training
- •Business insurance and licenses
- •Marketing and advertising costs
- •Travel and meal expenses (50% deductible)
Home Office & Technology
- •Home office deduction (simplified or actual)
- •Computers, software, and internet
- •Phone expenses (business portion)
- •Office furniture and supplies
- •Professional memberships
Tax Planning for 1099 Workers
Quarterly Payments
- •Calculate estimated tax liability
- •Make payments by quarterly deadlines
- •Use Form 1040-ES for payments
- •Consider setting aside 25-30% of income
Retirement Planning
- •SEP-IRA contributions (up to 25% of net earnings)
- •Solo 401(k) for higher contribution limits
- •Traditional IRA for additional savings
- •Health savings accounts (HSA)