Virginia Self-Employment Tax Calculator

Calculate your self-employment tax, federal income tax, and Virginia state income tax as a freelancer or 1099 contractor. Virginia has a progressive income tax with rates from 2% to 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
-$3,796
Total Tax Owed
$21,188

Summary

Total Income
$75,000
Total Taxes
-$21,188
After-Tax Income
$53,812
Effective Tax Rate(on total income)
28.3%

Quarterly Estimated Payments

Q1 (Jan-Mar)Due April 15
$5,297
Q2 (Apr-May)Due June 15
$5,297
Q3 (Jun-Aug)Due September 15
$5,297
Q4 (Sep-Dec)Due January 15 (next year)
$5,297
Each Quarterly Payment
$5,297

Tax Breakdown

See your complete freelancer financial picture

Your estimated quarterly tax payment is $5,297. Model your freelance income alongside expenses, savings, and investments in the full simulator.

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Virginia Tax Overview for Freelancers

Virginia has a progressive income tax with rates from 2% to 5.75%. The top rate kicks in at just $17,000, making it effectively a flat tax for most workers. Self-employed individuals in Virginia pay federal self-employment tax (15.3%) plus federal income tax, and Virginia state income tax on their net self-employment earnings.

Progressive but effectively flat 5.75% for mostNorthern Virginia high-salary job marketNo tax on Social SecurityDiverse economy

Self-Employment Taxes in Virginia

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

Virginia Income Tax for Freelancers

Virginia has a progressive income tax with rates from 2% to 5.75%. The top rate kicks in at just $17,000, making it effectively a flat tax for most workers.

Cost of Living for Freelancers in Virginia

Virginia's cost of living is about 3% above the national average, with Northern Virginia being 30%+ above average. As a freelancer in Virginia, 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 Virginia Freelancers

  • Virginia's top rate applies at just $17,000 — most workers effectively pay a flat 5.75%
  • Northern Virginia's proximity to D.C. offers some of the highest salaries in the country
  • Virginia does not tax Social Security benefits
  • Virginia's diverse economy spans government, defense, tech, and agriculture

Key Virginia Tax Features

  • Progressive but effectively flat 5.75% for most
  • Northern Virginia high-salary job market
  • No tax on Social Security
  • Diverse economy

Model Your Virginia Freelance Finances Over Time

This calculator shows your Virginia 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 Virginia?
Self-employed workers in Virginia pay federal self-employment tax (15.3% on 92.35% of net earnings), federal income tax, and Virginia state income tax. Virginia has a progressive income tax with rates from 2% to 5.75%. The top rate kicks in at just $17,000, making it effectively a flat tax for most workers.
How much will I owe in quarterly taxes as a freelancer in Virginia?
Your quarterly estimated tax payment in Virginia depends on your total tax liability — including SE tax, federal income tax, and Virginia 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 Virginia freelancers?
Freelancers in Virginia 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 Virginia state taxable income, providing additional state tax savings.
Does Virginia have any special taxes for self-employed workers?
Virginia does not have a separate self-employment tax. However, your net self-employment income is subject to Virginia's regular income tax (5.75% 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 Virginia?
The decision to form an LLC or S-Corp in Virginia 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 Virginia tax professional for advice specific to your situation.

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