Colorado Self-Employment Tax Calculator
Federal self-employment tax and income tax, plus Colorado state income tax using the 2026 rates, in one estimate. Enter your income and costs to see what to set aside.
Your results
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Colorado income tax in 2026
Colorado's rate structure for 2026: Flat 4.4%.
| Taxable income (single) | Rate |
|---|---|
| $0 and up | 4.4% |
Deductions modelled in this calculator: the state starts from the federal standard deduction.
The calculator starts from your federal adjusted gross income (profit minus half of your self-employment tax) and applies these brackets. Head of household uses the single brackets. Local taxes and state credits other than the personal credit are not included.
What it means in dollars
For a Colorado freelancer or gig worker with $55,000 of income and $5,000 of business costs (net profit $50,000, single filer, no other income), we estimate self-employment tax of $7,065, federal income tax of $2,667 and Colorado income tax of $1,336. The total is about $11,068, or 22.1% of profit, which is $2,767 per quarter. The state share is $1,336.
Local taxes and special rules in Colorado
We have not flagged a widely applicable city or county income tax for Colorado, but some localities charge their own taxes or fees on self-employment income. Check with your city and county.
Estimated payments in Colorado
Most states with an income tax expect estimated payments from self-employed people who expect to owe more than a small amount, and many use dates close to the federal ones. Confirm the schedule and any minimum with the Colorado tax agency, using the link in the sources below. See also the federal due dates guide and the safe-harbor rules.
Frequently asked questions
Does Colorado have a state income tax?
Yes. Colorado taxes income at a flat rate: flat 4.4%. Federal tax applies on top.
How much should I set aside for taxes in Colorado?
For $50,000 of net profit our estimate is about 22.1%, including federal and Colorado income tax and self-employment tax. Your own figure depends on income, filing status and other income, so use the calculator above.
Do I pay Colorado estimated taxes as a freelancer or gig worker?
Generally, if you expect to owe more than a small amount for the year after withholding. Dates and thresholds are set by Colorado, so confirm them with the state tax agency.
Are there local taxes on self-employment income in Colorado?
This calculator does not include city or county taxes. Check with your local government for Colorado.
Sources
- Tax Foundation: State Individual Income Tax Rates and Brackets, 2026
- IRS: Colorado state tax information
- IRS: Self-employment tax (Social Security and Medicare)
- IRS: Estimated taxes
Estimates only, not tax advice. State rules change, and city, county and special taxes are not included. See our disclaimer.
Other states
Not in Colorado? Use the state tax guide or pick any state in the calculator above. Related tools: self-employed tax calculator, quarterly tax calculator, 1099 vs W-2.