1099 vs W2 Salary Calculator
See the real take-home difference between being an employee (W2) and independent contractor (1099).
Quick answers before you calculate
Best for comparing offers
Use the same gross pay on both sides to see what actually hits your bank account.
Includes the tax gap
W2 includes FICA. 1099 includes the full self-employment tax that surprises many applicants.
Useful for side hustles too
Great for freelance, gig, contract, and second-income decisions before you say yes.
Unmarried, divorced without dependents, or legally separated
👨👩👧👦 Dependents & Tax Credits
Employee (W2)
Contractor (1099)
The Bottom Line
At $75,000 in UT filing as Single, a W2 employee takes home $57,815/year while a 1099 contractor takes home $54,121/year. That's $3,694/year ($308/month) less as a contractor — mainly due to the 15.3% self-employment tax.
Disclaimer: This calculator provides estimates only and does not constitute tax or financial advice. Actual taxes depend on deductions, credits, and individual circumstances. Consult a CPA or tax professional for your specific situation.
2026 Tax Brackets: Federal brackets reflect projected 2026 IRS adjustments. Standard deduction: Single = $15,700. Self-employment tax is 15.3% on 92.35% of net earnings. Child Tax Credit: $2,000 per child under 17. Other Dependent Credit: $500.
What is a W2? The tax form for regular employees. Your employer withholds federal, state, and FICA taxes and pays half of your Social Security and Medicare taxes.
What is a 1099? The tax form for independent contractors. You pay all taxes including the full 15.3% self-employment tax (both employee and employer portions of SS + Medicare).
1099 vs W2 FAQs
Does a W2 job usually pay more than a 1099 role at the same gross amount?
Usually yes on take-home pay, because the employer covers half of Social Security and Medicare taxes. A 1099 contractor pays the full self-employment tax.
What taxes does this calculator include?
It estimates federal income tax, state income tax, FICA for W2 work, and self-employment tax for 1099 work. It does not include every deduction or local tax rule.
Who should compare W2 vs 1099 before applying?
Anyone looking at freelancing, gig work, contract roles, sales roles with contractor status, or side hustles that could replace a part-time job.
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