What reserve percentage should freelancers start with?

Many freelancers start with a conservative combined tax-rate assumption, then adjust after each quarter based on actual payments and income volatility.

Freelancer Tax Reserve Calculator Monthly + Quarterly

Q: Does this calculator file taxes?

No. It provides planning estimates only and does not file tax returns.

Estimate how much to transfer into a tax reserve account each week and month for 1099 income planning.

Average monthly freelance income ($)

Business expense estimate (%)

Federal tax rate (%)

State/local tax rate (%)

Self-employment tax rate (%)

Current reserve account balance ($)

Months left in this quarter

Safety buffer target (months)

Enter your assumptions and run the calculation.

How to use this output

Transfer at least the weekly target into a separate tax account.
Re-run after income changes or a large one-time project payment.
After each estimated-tax payment, update your current reserve balance and check the next quarter catch-up target.

Related TaxKit resources

Use this with the Quarterly Tax Calculator, Freelancer Tax Setup Checklist, and 1099 Quarterly Tax Planning Guide.

Planning reminder

TaxKit provides planning estimates only and does not file tax returns. Confirm filing details and due dates with official guidance or a qualified tax professional.