As an independent contractor, you are responsible for paying both income tax and self-employment tax. While income tax is based on your taxable income, self-employment tax is based on your net earnings from self-employment.

The self-employment tax rate for 2021 is 15.3% and applies to the first $142,800 of your net earnings. Earnings above that amount are subject to a 2.9% Medicare tax. Combined, this means that the total self-employment tax rate is 18.2%.

As an independent contractor, you must pay self-employment tax on all of your net earnings. Unlike traditional employees who have their taxes withheld from each paycheck, you must pay your self-employment taxes quarterly through estimated tax payments.

To calculate your estimated tax payments, you’ll need to estimate your net earnings for the year. This can be challenging if your income fluctuates from year to year, but it’s essential to avoid underpaying and incurring penalties.

To make estimated tax payments, you can use the IRS Form 1040-ES. This form provides a space for you to calculate your estimated tax payment, which you’ll then submit to the IRS along with your payment.

While paying self-employment tax may seem like a burden, it’s an essential part of being an independent contractor. By paying your self-employment taxes on time, you can avoid penalties and keep yourself in good standing with the IRS.

If you’re unsure of how to calculate your self-employment taxes or make estimated tax payments, consider seeking the advice of a tax professional or accountant. They can provide you with guidance and help ensure that you’re meeting your tax obligations correctly.

In conclusion, as an independent contractor, it`s important to understand that you owe self-employment taxes on your net earnings. Make sure you calculate your estimated tax payments correctly and submit them on time. By being diligent about your tax obligations, you can avoid penalties and keep your business running smoothly.