Side Hustle Tax Calculator
Got a W-2 job but also freelance on the side? Your W-2 withholdings might not cover the extra income. This calculator shows exactly how much more you'll owe in taxes from your side hustle.
Side Hustle Income Tax Calculator
Calculate taxes on your side hustle income on top of your W-2 salary
Your side hustle income is taxed at your marginal rate — stacked on top of your salary. Set aside approximately 26% of every side hustle dollar for taxes.
Uses 2026 IRS brackets and standard deduction ($16,100 single / $32,200 MFJ). SE tax applies only to side income. Federal income tax on side income is calculated as the difference between total tax and tax on W-2 alone. The 50% SE tax deduction has been applied. Does not include state taxes or QBI deduction.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to pay taxes on my side hustle income?+
Yes. The IRS taxes all income — whether it's from your main job, freelance work, or a weekend gig. Side hustle income is subject to income tax plus self-employment tax (15.3%). Your W-2 withholdings only cover your main job; you need to account for the additional income separately.
How much tax should I set aside from my side hustle?+
A common rule of thumb is setting aside 25-30% of net side hustle income for federal taxes (income tax + SE tax). However, your actual rate depends on your total income, filing status, and deductions. This calculator gives you the exact number instead of guessing.
Can I deduct side hustle expenses from my taxes?+
Yes. Any ordinary and necessary business expense for your side hustle is deductible: supplies, software, home office, mileage, phone, internet (business portion), marketing, and more. These deductions reduce your net self-employment income, which lowers both your income tax and SE tax.
Do I have to pay taxes on my side hustle income?
Yes. The IRS taxes all income — whether it's from your main job, freelance work, or a weekend gig. Side hustle income is subject to income tax plus self-employment tax (15.3%). Your W-2 withholdings only cover your main job; you need to account for the additional income separately.
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