Ohio Self-Employment Tax Calculator

Calculate your self-employment tax, federal income tax, and Ohio state income tax as a freelancer or 1099 contractor. Ohio has a progressive income tax with a top rate of 3.

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
-$1,346
Total Tax Owed
$18,738

Summary

Total Income
$75,000
Total Taxes
-$18,738
After-Tax Income
$56,262
Effective Tax Rate(on total income)
25.0%

Quarterly Estimated Payments

Q1 (Jan-Mar)Due April 15
$4,684
Q2 (Apr-May)Due June 15
$4,684
Q3 (Jun-Aug)Due September 15
$4,684
Q4 (Sep-Dec)Due January 15 (next year)
$4,684
Each Quarterly Payment
$4,684

Tax Breakdown

See your complete freelancer financial picture

Your estimated quarterly tax payment is $4,684. Model your freelance income alongside expenses, savings, and investments in the full simulator.

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Ohio Tax Overview for Freelancers

Ohio has a progressive income tax with a top rate of 3.5%, relatively low for a progressive system. Some cities levy additional local income taxes. Self-employed individuals in Ohio pay federal self-employment tax (15.3%) plus federal income tax, and Ohio state income tax on their net self-employment earnings.

Progressive rates up to 3.5%City-level income taxesThree major metro areasNo tax on Social Security

Self-Employment Taxes in Ohio

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

Ohio Income Tax for Freelancers

Ohio has a progressive income tax with a top rate of 3.5%, relatively low for a progressive system. Some cities levy additional local income taxes.

Cost of Living for Freelancers in Ohio

Ohio's cost of living is about 9% below the national average, with affordable housing throughout the state. As a freelancer in Ohio, 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 Ohio Freelancers

  • Ohio's top rate of 3.5% is very competitive for a progressive tax state
  • Many Ohio cities levy local income taxes (1-2.5%) — check your city's rate
  • Columbus, Cleveland, and Cincinnati each offer distinct job markets and costs of living
  • Ohio does not tax Social Security benefits

Key Ohio Tax Features

  • Progressive rates up to 3.5%
  • City-level income taxes
  • Three major metro areas
  • No tax on Social Security

Model Your Ohio Freelance Finances Over Time

This calculator shows your Ohio 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 Ohio with Other States

Michigan4.25% top rateIndiana3.05% top rateKentucky4% top rateCalifornia13.3% top rateNew York10.9% top rateTexasNo income tax

Frequently Asked Questions

How is self-employment tax calculated in Ohio?
Self-employed workers in Ohio pay federal self-employment tax (15.3% on 92.35% of net earnings), federal income tax, and Ohio state income tax. Ohio has a progressive income tax with a top rate of 3.5%, relatively low for a progressive system. Some cities levy additional local income taxes.
How much will I owe in quarterly taxes as a freelancer in Ohio?
Your quarterly estimated tax payment in Ohio depends on your total tax liability — including SE tax, federal income tax, and Ohio 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 Ohio freelancers?
Freelancers in Ohio 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 Ohio state taxable income, providing additional state tax savings.
Does Ohio have any special taxes for self-employed workers?
Ohio does not have a separate self-employment tax. However, your net self-employment income is subject to Ohio's regular income tax (3.5% 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 Ohio?
The decision to form an LLC or S-Corp in Ohio 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 Ohio tax professional for advice specific to your situation.

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