Freelancer Tax Comparisons (2026)
Honest X vs Y comparisons for tax software, business structures, states, and more. All free, updated for 2026.
Business Structure
LLC (Single-Member) vs Sole Proprietor
LLC vs Sole Proprietor for freelancers in 2026: tax differences, costs, liabilit...
Winner: LLC →
S-Corp Election vs LLC (Default Taxation)
S-Corp vs LLC tax comparison for freelancers in 2026. Estimated savings at each ...
Winner: S-Corp →
W-2 Employee vs 1099 Independent Contractor
W-2 vs 1099 after-tax comparison for 2026. Estimated figures at each salary leve...
Winner: Depends on rate and deductions →
State Taxes
Retirement
Tax Methods
Standard Mileage Rate ($0.76/mile) vs Actual Expense Method
Standard vs actual mileage deduction comparison for freelancers in 2026. Which m...
Winner: Standard Mileage Rate for most freelancers →
Regular Method vs Simplified Method ($5/sq ft)
Regular vs Simplified home office deduction for freelancers in 2026. Which metho...
Winner: Regular Method for most homeowners and high-rent renters →
Quarterly Estimated Payments vs Annual Payment (at filing)
Should freelancers pay quarterly or annual taxes in 2026? The IRS rules, penalti...
Winner: Quarterly Payments (required for most) →