Georgia Self-Employment Tax Calculator

Calculate your self-employment tax, federal income tax, and Georgia state income tax as a freelancer or 1099 contractor. Georgia has a flat income tax rate of 5.

Annual Tax Breakdown

1099 Income
$85,000
Business Expenses
-$10,000
Net Profit
$75,000
Net Earnings (92.35%)(SE tax base)
$69,263
Social Security (12.4%)
-$8,589
Medicare (2.9%+)
-$2,009
Total SE Tax
-$10,597
SE Deduction (50%)(reduces income tax)
$5,299
Federal Income Tax
-$6,794
State Income Tax
-$4,118
Total Tax Owed
$21,509

Summary

Total Income
$75,000
Total Taxes
-$21,509
After-Tax Income
$53,491
Effective Tax Rate(on total income)
28.7%

Quarterly Estimated Payments

Q1 (Jan-Mar)Due April 15
$5,377
Q2 (Apr-May)Due June 15
$5,377
Q3 (Jun-Aug)Due September 15
$5,377
Q4 (Sep-Dec)Due January 15 (next year)
$5,377
Each Quarterly Payment
$5,377

Tax Breakdown

See your complete freelancer financial picture

Your estimated quarterly tax payment is $5,377. Model your freelance income alongside expenses, savings, and investments in the full simulator.

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Georgia Tax Overview for Freelancers

Georgia has a flat income tax rate of 5.49%. The state has been transitioning from a progressive to a flat tax system. Self-employed individuals in Georgia pay federal self-employment tax (15.3%) plus federal income tax, and Georgia state income tax on their net self-employment earnings.

Flat 5.49% rate (recently simplified)Growing tech and film industries in AtlantaRetirement income exemptions for 62+

Self-Employment Taxes in Georgia

If you work as a freelancer or independent contractor in Georgia, your tax situation involves multiple layers: federal self-employment tax, federal income tax, and Georgia state income tax. Understanding how each component works helps you plan your quarterly estimated payments and maximize your deductions.

Georgia Income Tax for Freelancers

Georgia has a flat income tax rate of 5.49%. The state has been transitioning from a progressive to a flat tax system.

Cost of Living for Freelancers in Georgia

Georgia's cost of living is about 7% below the national average, with Atlanta being near the average. As a freelancer in Georgia, your effective earnings depend not just on your tax rate but also on what your after-tax income can buy. Consider local costs for housing, coworking spaces, and daily expenses when setting your rates.

Financial Tips for Georgia Freelancers

  • Georgia's flat 5.49% rate simplifies tax planning compared to the old progressive system
  • Atlanta's booming job market in tech, film, and logistics offers competitive salaries
  • Georgia has moderate property taxes and a cost of living below the national average
  • Georgia taxes retirement income but offers exemptions for those 62 and older

Key Georgia Tax Features

  • Flat 5.49% rate (recently simplified)
  • Growing tech and film industries in Atlanta
  • Retirement income exemptions for 62+

Model Your Georgia Freelance Finances Over Time

This calculator shows your Georgia tax bill. Trajectoryy's full simulator models your freelance income alongside expenses, savings, investments, and more — month by month for years into the future.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How is self-employment tax calculated in Georgia?
Self-employed workers in Georgia pay federal self-employment tax (15.3% on 92.35% of net earnings), federal income tax, and Georgia state income tax. Georgia has a flat income tax rate of 5.49%. The state has been transitioning from a progressive to a flat tax system.
How much will I owe in quarterly taxes as a freelancer in Georgia?
Your quarterly estimated tax payment in Georgia depends on your total tax liability — including SE tax, federal income tax, and Georgia state income tax. Use the calculator above to estimate your quarterly payments. As a general rule, freelancers should set aside 25-35% of their net income for taxes.
What business deductions are available for Georgia freelancers?
Freelancers in Georgia can deduct the same federal business expenses as in any state: home office, equipment, software, health insurance, vehicle expenses, and more. These deductions also reduce your Georgia state taxable income, providing additional state tax savings.
Does Georgia have any special taxes for self-employed workers?
Georgia does not have a separate self-employment tax. However, your net self-employment income is subject to Georgia's regular income tax (5.49% top rate) in addition to federal self-employment tax and federal income tax.
Should I form an LLC or S-Corp as a freelancer in Georgia?
The decision to form an LLC or S-Corp in Georgia depends on your income level. Generally, if your net self-employment income exceeds $50,000-$60,000, an S-Corp election may save you money by allowing you to pay yourself a reasonable salary (subject to FICA/Medicare) while taking the rest as distributions (not subject to SE tax). Consult a Georgia tax professional for advice specific to your situation.

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