1099 vs W-2 Calculator

Find the 1099 hourly rate that matches a W-2 job once benefits, employer payroll tax and unpaid time off are counted.

US federal, tax year 2026 Free, no sign-up Runs in your browser
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Break-even 1099 rate

— / hour
  • At the rate offered—
  • Total W-2 package—
  • Employer payroll tax included—
  • 1099 yearly income—
  • 1099 paid hours per year—

The break-even rate is what the 1099 job must pay per hour to match the full W-2 package, before any extra business costs.

Break-even rate at different hours

Fewer billable hours means you need a higher rate to match the same W-2 package.

1099 hoursPaid hours / yearBreak-even rate
Enter your numbers above to see this table.

How to use this calculator

  1. Enter the W-2 salary and what the benefits are worth to you each year.
  2. Enter the 1099 rate you've been offered.
  3. Be realistic about 1099 hours and weeks. Contractors aren't paid for vacation, holidays or sick days.

How it's calculated

Employer payroll tax = 6.2% of salary (up to $184,500) + 1.45% of salary W-2 package = salary + benefits + employer payroll tax 1099 paid hours = hours per week × weeks per year Break-even rate = W-2 package ÷ 1099 paid hours Difference = (1099 rate × paid hours) − W-2 package

We add the employer's payroll tax because, as a 1099 contractor, you pay both halves through self-employment tax. Income tax is roughly similar either way, so it's left out of the comparison.

Worked example

Riley is offered a W-2 job at $90,000 with benefits worth $12,000, or a 1099 contract at $65 an hour for about 40 hours a week, 48 weeks a year.

Employer payroll tax = 90,000 × 7.65% = 6,885 W-2 package = 90,000 + 12,000 + 6,885 = 108,885 1099 paid hours = 40 × 48 = 1,920 Break-even rate = 108,885 ÷ 1,920 = $56.71/hour 1099 income = 65 × 1,920 = 124,800 Difference = 124,800 − 108,885 = +$15,915

The 1099 contract needs at least $56.71 an hour to match the W-2 package. At $65 it's worth about $15,915 more a year, before business costs such as insurance, equipment and accounting.

What this calculator doesn't cover

  • Business expenses you'd pay as a contractor, and the tax deductions they bring.
  • Job security, unemployment insurance and workers' compensation, which W-2 employees usually have.
  • Differences in income tax from the QBI deduction or retirement plans.

Frequently asked questions

What's the difference between 1099 and W-2?

W-2 workers are employees: the employer withholds tax, pays half the payroll tax and often provides benefits. 1099 workers are independent contractors who pay their own taxes, including both halves of Social Security and Medicare.

Is there a quick rule of thumb?

Many people say a 1099 rate should be 25–40% higher than the equivalent W-2 hourly pay. The right number depends on the benefits you'd give up and how many hours you can really bill, which is what this calculator works out.

Can an employer choose whether I'm 1099 or W-2?

Not freely. Worker classification depends on how much control the company has over your work. If you're unsure, see the IRS guidance on independent contractors versus employees.

Sources (tax year 2026): IRS Topic 751 (payroll tax rates and wage base), IRS: contractor or employee?

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Disclaimer: results are estimates for planning only and are not tax, legal or financial advice. Rules and rates vary by country, state and personal situation. Check with a qualified accountant before making decisions. Read the full disclaimer.

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