Maine Self-Employment Tax Calculator

Calculate your self-employment tax, federal income tax, and Maine state income tax as a freelancer or 1099 contractor. Maine has a progressive income tax with rates from 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
-$3,830
Total Tax Owed
$21,221

Summary

Total Income
$75,000
Total Taxes
-$21,221
After-Tax Income
$53,779
Effective Tax Rate(on total income)
28.3%

Quarterly Estimated Payments

Q1 (Jan-Mar)Due April 15
$5,305
Q2 (Apr-May)Due June 15
$5,305
Q3 (Jun-Aug)Due September 15
$5,305
Q4 (Sep-Dec)Due January 15 (next year)
$5,305
Each Quarterly Payment
$5,305

Tax Breakdown

See your complete freelancer financial picture

Your estimated quarterly tax payment is $5,305. Model your freelance income alongside expenses, savings, and investments in the full simulator.

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Maine Tax Overview for Freelancers

Maine has a progressive income tax with rates from 5.8% to 7.15%. The state has a relatively high tax burden overall. Self-employed individuals in Maine pay federal self-employment tax (15.3%) plus federal income tax, and Maine state income tax on their net self-employment earnings.

Progressive rates up to 7.15%Partial Social Security exemptionModerate cost of living for New England

Self-Employment Taxes in Maine

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

Maine Income Tax for Freelancers

Maine has a progressive income tax with rates from 5.8% to 7.15%. The state has a relatively high tax burden overall.

Cost of Living for Freelancers in Maine

Maine's cost of living is about 2% above the national average, lower than most of New England. As a freelancer in Maine, 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 Maine Freelancers

  • Maine's top rate of 7.15% kicks in at lower income levels than many states
  • Maine does not tax Social Security benefits for lower-income residents
  • Maine's cost of living is moderate for New England
  • Remote work opportunities allow Maine residents to earn higher metro-area salaries

Key Maine Tax Features

  • Progressive rates up to 7.15%
  • Partial Social Security exemption
  • Moderate cost of living for New England

Model Your Maine Freelance Finances Over Time

This calculator shows your Maine 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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Compare Maine with Other States

New HampshireNo income taxMassachusetts5% top rateTexasNo income taxFloridaNo income taxCalifornia13.3% top rate

Frequently Asked Questions

How is self-employment tax calculated in Maine?
Self-employed workers in Maine pay federal self-employment tax (15.3% on 92.35% of net earnings), federal income tax, and Maine state income tax. Maine has a progressive income tax with rates from 5.8% to 7.15%. The state has a relatively high tax burden overall.
How much will I owe in quarterly taxes as a freelancer in Maine?
Your quarterly estimated tax payment in Maine depends on your total tax liability — including SE tax, federal income tax, and Maine 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 Maine freelancers?
Freelancers in Maine 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 Maine state taxable income, providing additional state tax savings.
Does Maine have any special taxes for self-employed workers?
Maine does not have a separate self-employment tax. However, your net self-employment income is subject to Maine's regular income tax (7.15% 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 Maine?
The decision to form an LLC or S-Corp in Maine 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 Maine tax professional for advice specific to your situation.

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