How much should freelancers in Ohio set aside for taxes?
As an estimate, a self-employed person in Ohio with $50,000 of profit should set aside about 21% of that profit, rising to about 24% at $100,000. That covers federal income tax and self-employment tax, plus Ohio state income tax. Here's where the numbers come from.
Ohio's 2026 income tax at a glance
Ohio moved to a flat 2.75% rate on income over $26,050 in 2026.
Rates and brackets are as of January 1, 2026, for single filers, from the Tax Foundation's annual state survey. Married couples filing jointly usually get wider brackets.
| Ohio | |
|---|---|
| Structure | Flat 2.75% on income over $26,050 |
| Planning rate at $50,000 profit | 1.2% |
| Planning rate at $100,000 profit | 2.0% |
Your planning rate
Ohio taxes income at one rate, so planning is easy: your state tax is roughly 2.75% of your profit above $26,050. The planning rates above are lower because that first $26,050 isn't taxed and half of your self-employment tax comes off first.
In our quarterly tax calculator, enter 1.2% (or 2.0% if your profit is nearer $100,000) as your state rate.
How much to set aside in Ohio
Estimated total tax as a share of profit for a single filer with no other job: federal income tax, self-employment tax and Ohio income tax, using 2026 rules and the standard deduction. Save this share of each payment after business expenses.
| Profit | Federal + SE tax | OH tax (est.) | Set aside |
|---|---|---|---|
| $30,000 | $5,181 | $50 | 17% |
| $50,000 | $9,732 | $561 | 21% |
| $75,000 | $15,495 | $1,200 | 22% |
| $100,000 | $22,365 | $1,839 | 24% |
| $150,000 | $37,608 | $3,117 | 27% |
Local and business taxes to know about
Most Ohio cities and many school districts charge their own income tax, commonly 1% to 2.5%, and self-employment profit is usually included. This is often bigger than you'd expect.
These aren't included in the figures above.
Ohio estimated tax payments
Ohio expects freelancers who will owe state tax to pay during the year too. Most states use the same four dates as the IRS, but a few don't, so confirm the dates and payment options with the Ohio Department of Taxation.
An easy habit: when you make each federal quarterly payment, make the state one the same day.
Know your number for every payment.
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Frequently asked questions
Does Ohio have a state income tax?
Yes. For 2026 it's flat 2.75% on income over $26,050, according to the Tax Foundation's survey of rates as of January 1, 2026.
What percentage should I set aside for taxes in Ohio?
As an estimate, a single freelancer with no other job should save about 21% of profit at $50,000 and 24% at $100,000, covering federal income tax, self-employment tax and state income tax. A day job, a spouse's income, local taxes or big write-offs change the number, so use the calculator for yours.
What state rate should I enter in a tax calculator for Ohio?
Use your planning rate: about 1.2% at $50,000 of profit or 2.0% at $100,000. It's the average Ohio rate on that income before deductions and credits, so it leans slightly high.
Sources
Related
- How much to set aside for taxes in Pennsylvania (2026)
- How much to set aside for taxes in West Virginia (2026)
- How much to set aside for taxes in Kentucky (2026)
- How much to set aside for taxes in Indiana (2026)
- How much to set aside for taxes on 1099 income (2026)
- 2026 quarterly estimated tax deadlines for freelancers
Estimates and general information, not tax advice. Check with a tax professional for your situation.