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The benchmark uses the midpoint of the category ranges supplied for this calculator. The featured expense gap is the benchmark minus entered review amounts, floored at zero. It is an illustrative comparison, not tax savings or proof that any additional costs exist. These are product assumptions, not IRS expense averages for individual occupations. A zero gap does not mean you have no deductible expenses.

The two supporting federal savings examples compare simplified 2026 federal income and self-employment tax before and after a hypothetical additional expense amount. That amount is the smaller of the remaining expense gap, 10% of gross 1099 income, and positive business profit after entered review amounts. Entered amounts are treated as qualifying solely for this illustration. The model uses the standard deduction, 2026 brackets, 92.35% net self-employment earnings, the 2026 Social Security wage base, Medicare tax, and a simplified additional Medicare tax. The two outcomes use a basic 20% qualified business income assumption and no QBI assumption. They are not bounds on actual savings. Your W-2 amount is treated as an approximation of both income-tax wages and Social Security wages; if those amounts differ, the result will change. For joint filers, the spouse W-2 amount affects household income tax and the additional Medicare threshold, but does not reduce your personal Social Security wage base.

This is not a full tax return. It does not calculate itemized deductions, credits, other income, the detailed qualified business income limits, alternative minimum tax, state tax, payroll details, business entity choice, or every special tax rule. Checked ideas without entered amounts do not affect the calculation. Entered costs still require documentation and eligibility review. Vehicle mileage and actual vehicle costs for the same vehicle cannot simply be added together. Some rental activity belongs on Schedule E and may not be subject to self-employment tax.

Sources: 2026 brackets and standard deduction, self-employment tax, 2026 Social Security wage base, qualified business income, and Schedule C instructions.