PiggyHow Much to Set Aside for Taxes in 2026?
Turn profit into a practical percent and a monthly transfer — then pay estimates on time. Educational planning only; we don’t e-file.
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Tax Set-Aside Calculator
Effective percent of net profit for SE + federal income tax (+ optional state).
🧮Freelancer Tax Calculator
Full picture with QBI, state quality badges and quarterly amount.
📊Set-aside by income band
Citeable 2026 federal table from $25k–$250k profit.
📅Quarterly Estimated Tax Calculator
Turn the annual total into four IRS payments.
A simple process
- Estimate annual net profit (revenue − ordinary expenses).
- Run the set-aside calculator (or check the income-band table).
- Move that percent from every payment into a separate tax account.
- Pay quarterly estimates so you are not surprised in April.
PiggyMath is for plan & set aside — not e-file. When you are ready to file, use licensed software or a preparer with the filing prep checklist.
Frequently asked questions
How much should I set aside for taxes as a freelancer?
Many US freelancers aim for about 25–35% of net profit for federal SE + income tax, then add state. The right number is your effective rate — use the Tax Set-Aside Calculator or the income-band table for 2026.
Is set-aside the same as my quarterly estimated tax?
In total, yes. Divide the annual estimate by four for equal quarters, or transfer monthly into a separate tax account and pay on IRS deadlines.
Should I use 30% as a rule of thumb?
30% is a common starting heuristic but often high for low-profit federal-only cases with QBI, and low for high earners in high-tax states. Prefer a calculated percent.