Wisconsin Self-Employment Tax Calculator

Calculate your self-employment tax, federal income tax, and Wisconsin state income tax as a freelancer or 1099 contractor. Wisconsin has a progressive income tax with rates from 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
-$2,887
Total Tax Owed
$20,279

Summary

Total Income
$75,000
Total Taxes
-$20,279
After-Tax Income
$54,721
Effective Tax Rate(on total income)
27.0%

Quarterly Estimated Payments

Q1 (Jan-Mar)Due April 15
$5,070
Q2 (Apr-May)Due June 15
$5,070
Q3 (Jun-Aug)Due September 15
$5,070
Q4 (Sep-Dec)Due January 15 (next year)
$5,070
Each Quarterly Payment
$5,070

Tax Breakdown

See your complete freelancer financial picture

Your estimated quarterly tax payment is $5,070. Model your freelance income alongside expenses, savings, and investments in the full simulator.

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Wisconsin Tax Overview for Freelancers

Wisconsin has a progressive income tax with rates from 3.5% to 7.65%. Self-employed individuals in Wisconsin pay federal self-employment tax (15.3%) plus federal income tax, and Wisconsin state income tax on their net self-employment earnings.

Progressive rates up to 7.65%No tax on Social SecurityGrowing tech in Madison/MilwaukeeBelow-average cost of living

Self-Employment Taxes in Wisconsin

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

Wisconsin Income Tax for Freelancers

Wisconsin has a progressive income tax with rates from 3.5% to 7.65%.

Cost of Living for Freelancers in Wisconsin

Wisconsin's cost of living is about 5% below the national average. As a freelancer in Wisconsin, 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 Wisconsin Freelancers

  • Wisconsin's top rate of 7.65% is above average — maximize deductions to lower your effective rate
  • Wisconsin does not tax Social Security benefits
  • Madison and Milwaukee offer growing tech and healthcare job markets
  • Wisconsin's cost of living is below the national average despite moderate taxes

Key Wisconsin Tax Features

  • Progressive rates up to 7.65%
  • No tax on Social Security
  • Growing tech in Madison/Milwaukee
  • Below-average cost of living

Model Your Wisconsin Freelance Finances Over Time

This calculator shows your Wisconsin 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 Wisconsin with Other States

Minnesota9.85% top rateIowa5.7% top rateIllinois4.95% top rateCalifornia13.3% top rateTexasNo income taxFloridaNo income tax

Frequently Asked Questions

How is self-employment tax calculated in Wisconsin?
Self-employed workers in Wisconsin pay federal self-employment tax (15.3% on 92.35% of net earnings), federal income tax, and Wisconsin state income tax. Wisconsin has a progressive income tax with rates from 3.5% to 7.65%.
How much will I owe in quarterly taxes as a freelancer in Wisconsin?
Your quarterly estimated tax payment in Wisconsin depends on your total tax liability — including SE tax, federal income tax, and Wisconsin 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 Wisconsin freelancers?
Freelancers in Wisconsin 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 Wisconsin state taxable income, providing additional state tax savings.
Does Wisconsin have any special taxes for self-employed workers?
Wisconsin does not have a separate self-employment tax. However, your net self-employment income is subject to Wisconsin's regular income tax (7.65% 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 Wisconsin?
The decision to form an LLC or S-Corp in Wisconsin 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 Wisconsin tax professional for advice specific to your situation.

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State Tax-$2,384
FICA + Medicare-$4,973
Net Pay$50,181
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