Free Simulator

Self-Employment Tax Calculator for Gig Workers

Estimate your federal, state, and self-employment taxes as an independent contractor. Calculate quarterly payments for Uber, DoorDash, Instacart, and freelance work.

Annual Income

$

Total 1099 earnings for the year

$

Income from regular employment (if any)

Deductions

miles

Total miles while working (2025 rate: $0.70/mile)

$

Phone, supplies, bags, etc.

Filing Details

Tax Breakdown

Total Annual Tax

$0.00

Federal + State + SE Tax

Quarterly Payment

$0.00

Due Apr 15, Jun 15, Sep 15, Jan 15

Self-Employment Tax

$0.00

15.3% (Social Security + Medicare)

Federal Income Tax

$0.00

Based on taxable income

State Tax

$0.00

No state income tax

Effective Tax Rate

0.0%

Total tax / Gross income

Mileage Deduction

$0.00

$0.70/mile for 2025

Take-Home Pay

$0.00

After all taxes

Important Tax Reminders

  • -Quarterly estimated taxes are due: April 15, June 15, September 15, and January 15
  • -Track every business mile - the $0.70/mile deduction adds up quickly
  • -You can deduct half of your self-employment tax from your income tax
  • -Keep receipts for all business expenses - phone, bags, car washes, etc.
  • -This calculator provides estimates only - consult a tax professional for exact calculations

Understanding Self-Employment Taxes

What is Self-Employment Tax?

Self-employment tax is how gig workers pay into Social Security and Medicare. Unlike W-2 employees who split these taxes with their employer, independent contractors pay the full 15.3% (12.4% Social Security + 2.9% Medicare) on their net earnings.

The good news: you can deduct half of your self-employment tax when calculating your adjusted gross income, which reduces your overall income tax burden.

Quarterly Estimated Tax Payments

As a gig worker, you're required to pay estimated taxes quarterly if you expect to owe $1,000 or more in taxes. Missing these payments can result in penalties and interest charges from the IRS.

2025 Due Dates:

  • - Q1: April 15, 2025 (for Jan-Mar income)
  • - Q2: June 16, 2025 (for Apr-May income)
  • - Q3: September 15, 2025 (for Jun-Aug income)
  • - Q4: January 15, 2026 (for Sep-Dec income)

Common Tax Deductions for Gig Workers

Vehicle Expenses

  • - Mileage ($0.70/mile in 2025)
  • - OR actual expenses (gas, repairs)
  • - Parking and tolls
  • - Car washes

Other Deductions

  • - Phone and data plan (business %)
  • - Insulated bags and equipment
  • - Health insurance premiums
  • - Home office (if applicable)

Standard Mileage vs Actual Expenses

You can choose to deduct either the standard mileage rate ($0.70/mile for 2025) or your actual vehicle expenses. Most gig workers find the standard mileage method simpler and often more beneficial.

If you choose actual expenses, you can deduct the business percentage of gas, insurance, repairs, depreciation, and other vehicle costs. Keep detailed records of all expenses and calculate the percentage of miles driven for business.

Tax Forms for Gig Workers

Form 1099-K or 1099-NEC: You'll receive these from each platform showing your total earnings.

Schedule C: Report your gig income and business expenses here.

Schedule SE: Calculate your self-employment tax.

Form 1040-ES: Use this to calculate and pay quarterly estimated taxes.

Related Simulators

This simulator provides estimates based on your inputs. Actual earnings may vary.