OwedZero · freelancer tax planning
A 1099 tax calculator with a visible worksheet
Estimate federal taxes on freelance income, blend W-2 withholding and compare quarterly-payment methods with the free OwedZero 1099 calculator.
Start with income after business expenses
Enter projected 1099 gross receipts and eligible expenses, then your filing status, W-2 income and withholding if applicable. OwedZero calculates income tax and self-employment tax separately before comparing general quarterly-payment methods.
Worked example
For a single filer with $80,000 receipts, $20,000 expenses and no W-2 wages: net profit is $60,000.00, deductible half of SE tax is $4,238.87, AGI is $55,761.14, and estimated total federal tax is $12,037.20. No credits, special deductions or state tax are included in this example.
What the estimate covers
Tax year 2026, standard deduction, single, married filing jointly or head of household, W-2 blending, self-employment tax and a simplified QBI deduction for an active solo business. State amounts are adjustable flat-rate planning estimates, not state return calculations.
It does not model credits, capital gains, itemized deductions, AMT, married filing separately, annualized installments, special occupations or every deduction eligibility rule. Retirement and health deductions require your own eligibility checks. Prior-year safe harbor assumes a full 12-month return; the zero-tax exception also requires full-year US citizenship or residency. Timing matters even if the annual total is paid.
OwedZero is not affiliated with the IRS or any government agency. Estimates for planning, not tax advice. It does not file returns or send payments. Tax engine 2026.3.0; figures checked September 26, 2026.