Free · Plain-language · 2026 figures

Self-employed tax guides

Short, plain-language answers to the questions freelancers actually ask — each backed by the same free calculator. No jargon, no sign-up.

All guides

The rule of thumb is 25–35% of net profit — here's how to find your exact number for 2026.

Same pay, bigger tax bill. Why 1099 income costs more than a W-2 — and the deductions that close the gap.

Home office, health insurance, retirement, QBI, half your SE tax — the write-offs that actually lower your bill.

April 15, June 15, September 15, 2026, and January 15, 2027 — the full schedule and how to never miss one.

Owe $1,000+ after withholding? You probably do. Who's required, who's exempt, and the W-2 workaround.

Direct Pay, EFTPS, or a mailed 1040-ES voucher — the free ways to pay, step by step.

Pay the least you can and still skip the IRS underpayment penalty. The 90% / 100–110% rule, explained.

It saves self-employment tax — but costs money and effort to run. Where the break-even actually is.

By itself, an LLC doesn't cut your taxes at all. What actually saves money is the S-Corp election on top of it.

Both shelter a big share of profit from tax. Which lets you save more — and which is simpler — for 2026.

Most self-employed people can deduct 20% of business profit before income tax. Here's how QBI works.