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TravelNurseTax

W2 vs 1099 Travel Nurse Calculator

Compare two offers with simplified 2026 federal, self-employment, and state assumptions. Business expenses are included as both deductions and cash outflows.

Planning estimate only—not a tax return or tax advice. Results use the income entered as though it were your only annual income and omit credits, many deductions, local taxes, resident-state credits, withholding, and plan documentation. Verify the result with a qualified tax professional before making financial or filing decisions.

W2 Contract

Your hourly rate subject to income tax (not travel allowances)

$

Modeled as excluded only when selected below; eligibility is not verified

$

Meals & incidental expenses

$

1099 Contract

Your total pay per hour — typically no separate stipends

$

Deductible expenses (housing, travel, etc.) — reduces SE tax

$
Self-employment tax generally applies at 15.3% to 92.35% of net earnings, subject to annual Social Security and Additional Medicare rules. This simplified estimate deducts half of modeled SE tax and entered business expenses.

Shared Details

Controls whether W2 allowances are modeled as excluded; it does not verify eligibility.