1099 vs W2 Salary Calculator

See the real take-home difference between being an employee (W2) and independent contractor (1099).

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Unmarried, divorced without dependents, or legally separated

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W2

Employee (W2)

Gross income$75,000
Federal tax-$7,960 (10.6%)
State tax (UT)-$3,488 (4.7%)
FICA (SS + Medicare)-$5,738 (7.65%)
Total taxes-$17,185 (22.9%)
Take-home pay$57,815
Monthly$4,818
Biweekly$2,224
1099

Contractor (1099)

Gross income$75,000
Federal tax-$6,794 (9.1%)
State tax (UT)-$3,488 (4.7%)
Self-employment tax-$10,597 (15.3%)
Total taxes-$20,879 (27.8%)
Take-home pay$54,121
Monthly$4,510
Biweekly$2,082

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 โ€” 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).

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