Freelancer Tax Set-Aside Calculator
Last checked October 16, 2026 · How we calculate · Runs in your browser; nothing you type is sent.
2026 quarterly estimated tax due dates
| For income earned | Due |
|---|---|
| January 1 – March 31 | April 15, 2026 |
| April 1 – May 31 | June 15, 2026 |
| June 1 – August 31 | September 15, 2026 |
| September 1 – December 31 | January 15, 2027 |
From IRS Form 1040-ES (2026). Most states with an income tax use similar dates.
How we work it out
- Self-employment tax: 15.3% (12.4% Social Security up to $184,500, plus 2.9% Medicare) on 92.35% of profit. IRS: self-employment tax
- Federal income tax: the 2026 IRS rates, single, standard deduction, after subtracting half of the self-employment tax.
- State income tax: your state’s 2026 rates from the same engine as our calculator.
- We leave out the qualified business income deduction and other credits, so the suggestion leans a little high. That is the safer side for savings.
Track freelance work week by week in the main calculator (Client / Job / Unit tab). More on paying: IRS estimated taxes.
Frequently asked questions
What percent should a freelancer save for taxes?
It depends on your profit and your state. Enter your expected profit above and this calculator works out the share from 2026 rules.
When are 2026 estimated taxes due?
April 15, June 15 and September 15, 2026, and January 15, 2027.
Estimates of what an employer would withhold under the published 2026 rules. Not tax advice, and not your final tax bill.
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