Freelance Taxes in Louisiana: Complete 2026 Guide
Rates reviewed · Source: Louisiana Department of Revenue
Louisiana has a progressive income tax with rates from 1.85% to 4.25%. Louisiana also allows a deduction for federal income taxes paid.
Quarterly Estimated Payments
LA requires quarterly estimated payments if you expect to owe $1,000 or more.
| Quarter | Income period | Due |
|---|---|---|
| Q1 | Jan 1 – Mar 31, 2026 | April 15, 2026 |
| Q2 | Apr 1 – May 31, 2026 | June 16, 2026 |
| Q3 | Jun 1 – Aug 31, 2026 | September 15, 2026 |
| Q4 | Sep 1 – Dec 31, 2026 | January 15, 2027 |
Louisiana File Online — Louisiana Department of Revenue · Form IT-540ES · How to pay online
Key Tax Facts for Louisiana Freelancers
- •Unique: allows deduction for federal income taxes paid
- •Low top rate of 4.25% among progressive state taxes
- •Louisiana follows the federal quarterly payment schedule
- •New Orleans has a thriving creative and tech freelance community
Deductions in Louisiana
Louisiana has unique deductions including the federal income tax deduction, which significantly reduces effective state tax for high earners.
Top Freelancer Cities in Louisiana
Louisiana freelance tax questions
How much tax do freelancers pay in Louisiana?
Three taxes apply: 15.3% federal self-employment tax on net earnings up to $184,500, federal income tax at your bracket, and Louisiana income tax of up to 4.25%. Louisiana has a progressive income tax with rates from 1.85% to 4.25%. Louisiana also allows a deduction for federal income taxes paid.
Do Louisiana freelancers have to make quarterly estimated payments?
LA requires quarterly estimated payments if you expect to owe $1,000 or more. Federal estimated payments for 2026 are due Q1 April 15, 2026, Q2 June 16, 2026, Q3 September 15, 2026, Q4 January 15, 2027. Louisiana follows the same schedule.
What can Louisiana freelancers deduct?
Louisiana has unique deductions including the federal income tax deduction, which significantly reduces effective state tax for high earners.
Where do Louisiana freelancers pay estimated taxes online?
Louisiana accepts online estimated tax payments through Louisiana File Online, operated by the Louisiana Department of Revenue. The state estimated tax form is Form IT-540ES. Federal payments are made separately through IRS Direct Pay or EFTPS.
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.