Florida 1099 and Self-Employment Tax
A Florida 1099 contractor or self-employed worker pays exactly the same federal taxes as any US self-employed worker — 15.3% SE tax up to the SS wage base, plus federal income tax — and zero state-level tax on top. This is the cleanest self-employment regime among the populous states.
SE tax in 2026: 12.4% Social Security on net SE earnings up to the wage base ($181,800 estimated), plus 2.9% Medicare on all net SE earnings, plus an Additional Medicare 0.9% above $200K single ($250K MFJ).
Half of SE tax is deductible above the line on the 1040, reducing federal income taxable income.
Quarterly estimated taxes are due four times per year (April 15, June 15, September 15, January 15). Florida residents need to make federal estimates only — there are no state estimates.
For higher-income 1099 workers ($200K+ net), an S-corp election can produce meaningful savings by capping SE tax exposure on a "reasonable salary" portion. Florida's no-state-income-tax status simplifies the analysis substantially.
Frequently asked questions
Do I owe Florida state tax on 1099 income?+
No. Florida has no state income tax. You owe only federal income tax and SE tax on 1099 net earnings.
When are quarterly estimates due in 2026?+
April 15, June 15, September 15, 2026, and January 15, 2027 for the 2026 tax year. These are federal-only — Florida has no state estimated tax.
Should I be an LLC or S-corp in Florida?+
A Florida LLC is the simplest option for most freelancers and small businesses. An S-corp election (filed via IRS Form 2553) can reduce SE tax exposure once net earnings exceed roughly $80K–$100K. Talk to a CPA — the answer is fact-specific.