What is the self-employment tax rate for 2026?

The federal self-employment tax rate is 15.3%: 12.4% for Social Security on net earnings up to the wage base ($184,500 for 2026), plus 2.9% for Medicare with no cap. High earners pay an extra 0.9% Medicare surtax above $200,000 (single filer).

How is self-employment tax calculated?

Multiply your net self-employment income by 92.35% (the IRS factor that mirrors the employer half of FICA), then apply 15.3% to that base. Half of the resulting SE tax is deductible from your adjusted gross income before federal and state income tax are computed.

Do I pay state income tax on top of self-employment tax?

SE tax is federal only, but most states also tax freelance income. Nine states levy no personal income tax (including Texas, Florida, and Washington), while the rest range from Arizona's flat 2.5% to California's top 12.3%. Pick your state above for exact rates and rules.

When are quarterly estimated tax payments due?

For the 2026 tax year: April 15, June 15, and September 15, 2026, and January 15, 2027. If you expect to owe $1,000 or more in federal tax for the year, the IRS expects quarterly payments. Missing a quarter triggers an underpayment penalty even if you settle up in April.

Self-Employment Tax Calculator by State