Washington Self-Employment Tax Calculator

Calculate your self-employment tax, federal income tax, and Washington state income tax as a freelancer or 1099 contractor. Washington has no state income tax.

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
-$0
Total Tax Owed
$17,391

Summary

Total Income
$75,000
Total Taxes
-$17,391
After-Tax Income
$57,609
Effective Tax Rate(on total income)
23.2%

Quarterly Estimated Payments

Q1 (Jan-Mar)Due April 15
$4,348
Q2 (Apr-May)Due June 15
$4,348
Q3 (Jun-Aug)Due September 15
$4,348
Q4 (Sep-Dec)Due January 15 (next year)
$4,348
Each Quarterly Payment
$4,348

Tax Breakdown

See your complete freelancer financial picture

Your estimated quarterly tax payment is $4,348. Model your freelance income alongside expenses, savings, and investments in the full simulator.

Try the Full Simulator

Washington Tax Overview for Freelancers

Washington has no state income tax. Combined with a major tech industry presence, Washington offers some of the highest after-tax incomes in the country. Self-employed individuals in Washington pay federal self-employment tax (15.3%) plus federal income tax, and no state income tax — giving Washington freelancers a significant advantage.

No state income taxMajor tech hub (Seattle area)PFML payroll taxHigh sales tax (6.5-10.25%)Highest tech salaries + no income tax

Self-Employment Taxes in Washington

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

Washington Income Tax for Freelancers

Washington has no state income tax. Combined with a major tech industry presence, Washington offers some of the highest after-tax incomes in the country.

Cost of Living for Freelancers in Washington

Washington's cost of living is about 15% above the national average, with the Seattle metro area being 30%+ above average. As a freelancer in Washington, 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 Washington Freelancers

  • No state income tax plus Seattle tech salaries can mean some of the highest take-home pay in the US
  • Washington has a PFML payroll tax — a small deduction from your paycheck for paid family leave
  • Washington has a high sales tax (6.5-10.25%) which offsets some of the income tax savings
  • Washington's lack of income tax makes it especially attractive for high earners and stock-compensation workers

Key Washington Tax Features

  • No state income tax
  • Major tech hub (Seattle area)
  • PFML payroll tax
  • High sales tax (6.5-10.25%)
  • Highest tech salaries + no income tax

Model Your Washington Freelance Finances Over Time

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

Start Simulating for Free

Frequently Asked Questions

How is self-employment tax calculated in Washington?
Washington has no state income tax, so self-employed workers in Washington only pay federal self-employment tax (15.3% on 92.35% of net earnings) and federal income tax. This makes Washington one of the most favorable states for freelancers and 1099 contractors.
How much will I owe in quarterly taxes as a freelancer in Washington?
Your quarterly estimated tax payment in Washington depends on your total tax liability — including SE tax, federal income tax, and no state income tax (since Washington has none). 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 Washington freelancers?
Freelancers in Washington can deduct the same federal business expenses as in any state: home office, equipment, software, health insurance, vehicle expenses, and more. Since Washington has no state income tax, deductions only reduce your federal tax liability.
Does Washington have any special taxes for self-employed workers?
No. Washington has no state income tax and no additional self-employment taxes. You only need to worry about federal self-employment tax and federal income tax.
Should I form an LLC or S-Corp as a freelancer in Washington?
The decision to form an LLC or S-Corp in Washington 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 Washington tax professional for advice specific to your situation.

Related Calculators