Quarterly Tax Calculator for Freelancers
Estimate your quarterly estimated tax payments based on your income, deductions, and state. Updated for the 2026 tax year.
2026 Quarterly Tax — Key Facts
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Tax Information Notice
This content is for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute tax, legal, or financial advice. Tax laws change frequently. Always consult a qualified CPA or Enrolled Agent for your specific situation.
How Quarterly Tax Payments Work
As a freelancer or self-employed professional, you are responsible for paying your own taxes. Unlike W-2 employees, no employer withholds taxes from your paychecks. Instead, the IRS requires you to estimate and pay taxes four times per year via quarterly estimated payments.
The quarterly payment covers two things: (1) your federal income tax (based on your tax bracket) and (2) your self-employment (SE) tax of 15.3%, which replaces the Social Security and Medicare taxes your employer would normally split with you.
Most tax professionals recommend setting aside 25–30% of every payment you receive into a separate savings account. That way, when quarterly due dates arrive, you always have enough.
2026 Quarterly Tax Due Dates
| Quarter | Income Period | Due Date |
|---|---|---|
| Q1 2026 | Jan 1 – Mar 31 | April 15, 2026 |
| Q2 2026 | Apr 1 – May 31 | June 16, 2026 |
| Q3 2026 | Jun 1 – Aug 31 | September 15, 2026 |
| Q4 2026 | Sep 1 – Dec 31 | January 15, 2027 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What percentage should a freelancer set aside for quarterly taxes?
Most freelancers should set aside 25–30% of every payment for taxes. This covers the 15.3% self-employment tax plus federal income tax (22–24% bracket for income between $48,475–$103,350 single filers in 2026). Those in higher income brackets or high-tax states like California should set aside 35–40%.
When are quarterly estimated taxes due?
Quarterly estimated taxes are due four times a year: April 15 (Q1), June 16 (Q2), September 15 (Q3), and January 15 (Q4, for the prior tax year). If a due date falls on a weekend or federal holiday, the deadline moves to the next business day.
How much should freelancers pay in quarterly taxes?
The IRS safe harbor requires you to pay at least 90% of your current year tax liability or 100% of last year's tax liability (110% if your AGI exceeded $150,000). Most freelancers use the "pay-as-you-go" method: estimate income each quarter and pay roughly 25–30% of net self-employment income to cover federal + SE taxes.
What happens if I miss a quarterly tax payment?
The IRS charges an underpayment penalty calculated on the amount underpaid and the number of days late. As of 2026, the underpayment rate is the federal short-term rate plus 3 percentage points. The penalty is relatively small (often under $100 for moderate underpayments), but it accumulates over time.
Do I need to pay state quarterly taxes?
Most states with an income tax require quarterly estimated payments if you expect to owe $500 or more (varies by state). Select your state above and the calculator will include your state's estimated tax in the total.
What is the self-employment tax rate for 2026?
The self-employment tax rate is 15.3% on net self-employment income up to the Social Security wage base ($184,500 in 2026, up from $176,100 in 2025), and 2.9% (Medicare only) above that. Half of SE tax is deductible on your federal return, which the calculator accounts for.
Can I use the QBI deduction to reduce my quarterly tax payments?
Yes. The Qualified Business Income (QBI) deduction under Section 199A allows most freelancers and sole proprietors to deduct up to 20% of their qualified business income, which directly reduces taxable income and therefore income tax owed. The QBI deduction begins to phase out at $197,300 (single) or $394,600 (MFJ) of taxable income in 2026. Note that the QBI deduction reduces income tax but not self-employment tax.