Canada Freelancer Tax Calculator 2026
Calculate your 2026 taxes instantly with official CRA rates. Federal tax, provincial tax, CPP, and CPP2 for all 13 provinces.
The Canada freelancer tax calculator for 2026 helps self-employed individuals and independent contractors calculate their total tax burden, including federal tax, provincial tax, and CPP contributions. This free freelancer tax calculator uses official CRA tax rates and brackets to provide accurate estimates for all 13 provinces and territories.
Example Calculation
Freelancer earning $80,000 in Ontario
Total Tax
~$23,700
Federal + Provincial + CPP
Net Income
~$56,300
Your take-home
View full tax breakdown ↓
Federal Tax
~$10,300
Provincial Tax
~$4,500
CPP
~$8,900
Use the calculator below to see your exact numbers
Your Information
Enter your financial details
Your total gross income before expenses
💡 Business expenses reduce your taxable income. Examples: home office, equipment, software, travel, professional development.
Taxable Income
$80,000
Effective Tax Rate
0%
(Total tax ÷ total income)
Your Tax Breakdown
Instant calculation
Take-home amount
✅ Verified Calculation
Verified against TurboTax, Wealthsimple, and CRA calculations. Accuracy: ±$10 for incomes under $200K. Uses the same methodology as official CRA tax software.
(Perfect for saving or sharing)
💡 Tip:
Want to compare employed vs freelance income? Our Salary After Tax Calculator is coming soon.
Uses official 2026 CRA tax brackets (updated January 2026). Results are estimates for informational purposes only.
How to Calculate Freelancer Taxes in Canada (2026)
As a self-employed individual or freelancer in Canada, calculating your taxes involves understanding three main components: federal income tax, provincial or territorial tax, and Canada Pension Plan (CPP) contributions. Unlike traditional employees, freelancers must pay both the employer and employee portions of CPP, making tax planning essential.
🏛️Federal Tax Brackets 2026
- Up to $58,523:14%
- $58,523 - $117,045:20.5%
- $117,045 - $181,440:26%
- $181,440 - $258,482:29%
- Over $258,482:33%
These rates apply to all provinces. Your provincial tax rate is calculated separately based on your province of residence.
💼CPP for Self-Employed 2026
- Base CPP Rate: 11.9% on earnings between $3,500 and $74,600
- CPP2 Rate: Additional 8% on earnings between $74,600 and $85,000 (introduced 2024, increased in 2026)
- Maximum CPP: $8,461 (base) + $832 (CPP2) = $9,293 total
Learn more about CPP2 contributions and how CPP works for freelancers.
Provincial Tax Rates Vary Significantly
Your province of residence has a major impact on your total tax burden. For example, on $100,000 of freelance income, you'll pay approximately $4,568 in provincial tax in Nunavut versus $13,899 in Quebec—a difference of over $9,000. Use the calculator above to see exact rates for your province.
What's Next?
Compare Provinces
Use the "Show Province Insights" button in the calculator above to compare tax rates across all 13 provinces and territories. See which provinces offer the best tax rates for your income level.
How This Calculator Works
This calculator uses the official 2026 tax brackets published by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). Calculations follow the same methodology used by the CRA for tax returns.
Calculation Method:
- Federal tax calculated using progressive brackets (14% to 33%)
- Provincial tax calculated using province-specific brackets
- Basic Personal Amount credits applied to both federal and provincial tax
- CPP calculated at 11.9% on earnings $3,500-$74,600
- CPP2 calculated at 8% on earnings $74,600-$85,000
- Total = Federal + Provincial + CPP + CPP2
Note: This calculator provides estimates. Actual tax owed may vary based on additional credits, deductions, and your specific tax situation. Consult a tax professional for personalized advice.
Need province-specific guidance? See our Ontario freelancer tax calculator, BC freelancer tax calculator, or Alberta freelancer tax calculator.
Learn More
As a freelancer or self-employed individual in Canada, you're responsible for calculating and paying your own taxes. Understand both federal and provincial tax brackets.
Quick FAQ
Why do freelancers pay more CPP?
Self-employed individuals pay both the employer and employee portions of CPP contributions (11.9% total for 2026), plus an additional 8% CPP2 on earnings above $74,600.
Do I need to register for GST/HST as a freelancer?
Yes, if your revenue exceeds $30,000 in a 12-month period. You must register for a GST/HST account and charge GST/HST on your services. This is separate from income tax.
Do freelancers need to make quarterly payments?
Yes, if you owe more than $3,000 in taxes. You'll need to make quarterly installment payments (March 15, June 15, September 15, December 15) to avoid interest charges.
When are taxes due?
Filing deadline is June 15th, but payment is due April 30th to avoid penalties.
What is the difference between employee and freelancer taxes in Canada?
Employees have taxes automatically deducted from paychecks and pay 5.95% CPP (employer pays the other half). Freelancers must calculate and pay taxes themselves, pay 11.9% CPP (both employer and employee portions), may need quarterly installments if owing more than $3,000, and can deduct business expenses to reduce taxable income.
How much should I set aside for taxes as a freelancer in Canada?
Most freelancers should set aside 25-30% of each payment for taxes. This covers federal tax, provincial tax, and CPP contributions. Use our free calculator above to get an exact estimate based on your income and province.
About This Calculator
This calculator is built using official 2026 CRA tax brackets and rates. All calculations are verified against CRA published rates and updated within 48 hours of any official changes.
Next update: When CRA publishes 2027 rates