1099 Tax Estimator, California
Free 1099 tax estimator for US freelancers and independent contractors. Calculate your self-employment tax (15.3%), federal income tax, and quarterly payment schedule based on your 1099 income and filing status. 2024 tax year rates.
California has the highest state income tax rate in the US, topping out at 13.3% for income over $1 million. Freelancers and 1099 contractors in California should set aside 40–50% of net income to cover federal self-employment tax, federal income tax, and state income tax.
California also has a State Disability Insurance (SDI) tax of 1.1%. Remember to make quarterly estimated payments to both the IRS and California FTB.
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General calculator →Frequently Asked Questions, 1099 Tax Estimator in California
How much should a California 1099 contractor set aside for taxes?↓
California 1099 contractors should typically set aside 40–50% of net income for taxes. This covers: federal self-employment tax (15.3% on the first $160,200 of net earnings), federal income tax (12–37% depending on income), California state income tax (1–13.3%), and California SDI (1.1%). Higher earners closer to the 13.3% bracket should save closer to 50%.
What are the California state income tax brackets for self-employed workers?↓
California has 10 tax brackets ranging from 1% to 13.3%. For 2024: 1% on income up to $10,756; 2% up to $25,499; 4% up to $40,245; 6% up to $55,866; 8% up to $70,606; 9.3% up to $360,659; 10.3% up to $432,787; 11.3% up to $721,314; 12.3% up to $1,000,000; and 13.3% above $1,000,000.
When are quarterly estimated tax payments due for California freelancers?↓
California quarterly estimated tax (FTB Form 540-ES) is due on: April 15 (Q1), June 15 (Q2), September 15 (Q3), and January 15 of the following year (Q4). These are the same dates as federal IRS estimated payments. Missing a payment results in an underpayment penalty.
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