Hawaii Self-Employment Tax Calculator

Calculate your self-employment tax, federal income tax, and Hawaii state income tax as a freelancer or 1099 contractor. Hawaii has a progressive income tax with rates from 1.

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
-$5,260
Total Tax Owed
$22,651

Summary

Total Income
$75,000
Total Taxes
-$22,651
After-Tax Income
$52,349
Effective Tax Rate(on total income)
30.2%

Quarterly Estimated Payments

Q1 (Jan-Mar)Due April 15
$5,663
Q2 (Apr-May)Due June 15
$5,663
Q3 (Jun-Aug)Due September 15
$5,663
Q4 (Sep-Dec)Due January 15 (next year)
$5,663
Each Quarterly Payment
$5,663

Tax Breakdown

See your complete freelancer financial picture

Your estimated quarterly tax payment is $5,663. Model your freelance income alongside expenses, savings, and investments in the full simulator.

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Hawaii Tax Overview for Freelancers

Hawaii has a progressive income tax with rates from 1.4% to 11%, the second-highest top rate in the nation. Hawaii also has a TDI payroll tax. Self-employed individuals in Hawaii pay federal self-employment tax (15.3%) plus federal income tax, and Hawaii state income tax on their net self-employment earnings.

Second-highest top rate (11%)TDI payroll taxExtremely high cost of livingLower property taxes relative to home values

Self-Employment Taxes in Hawaii

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

Hawaii Income Tax for Freelancers

Hawaii has a progressive income tax with rates from 1.4% to 11%, the second-highest top rate in the nation. Hawaii also has a TDI payroll tax.

Cost of Living for Freelancers in Hawaii

Hawaii has the highest cost of living of any state, approximately 86% above the national average, driven by housing, food, and energy costs. As a freelancer in Hawaii, 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 Hawaii Freelancers

  • Hawaii's top rate of 11% means high earners face a significant state tax burden
  • Hawaii's TDI payroll tax adds to the overall deduction from your paycheck
  • The extremely high cost of living in Hawaii requires careful budgeting
  • Consider that Hawaii has lower property taxes than most states despite high home prices

Key Hawaii Tax Features

  • Second-highest top rate (11%)
  • TDI payroll tax
  • Extremely high cost of living
  • Lower property taxes relative to home values

Model Your Hawaii Freelance Finances Over Time

This calculator shows your Hawaii 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 Hawaii?
Self-employed workers in Hawaii pay federal self-employment tax (15.3% on 92.35% of net earnings), federal income tax, and Hawaii state income tax. Hawaii has a progressive income tax with rates from 1.4% to 11%, the second-highest top rate in the nation. Hawaii also has a TDI payroll tax.
How much will I owe in quarterly taxes as a freelancer in Hawaii?
Your quarterly estimated tax payment in Hawaii depends on your total tax liability — including SE tax, federal income tax, and Hawaii 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 Hawaii freelancers?
Freelancers in Hawaii 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 Hawaii state taxable income, providing additional state tax savings.
Does Hawaii have any special taxes for self-employed workers?
Hawaii does not have a separate self-employment tax. However, your net self-employment income is subject to Hawaii's regular income tax (11% 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 Hawaii?
The decision to form an LLC or S-Corp in Hawaii 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 Hawaii tax professional for advice specific to your situation.

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