The 1099 Tax Survival Kit (2026–2027)

Money basics for freelancers, 1099 contractors, side hustlers and one-person LLCs. Checked against irs.gov on October 23, 2026.

• The basics in 60 seconds: Schedule C and SE, the 15.3% self-employment tax, quarterly estimates and safe harbor.
• What's new for 1099 forms: the 1099-NEC threshold is now $2,000, and 1099-K is back to more than $20,000 and 200 transactions.
• Deadline calendar from Dec 31, 2026 through Jan 18, 2028, with every estimated payment date.
• The write-off checklist: home office, 2026 mileage rates, software, health insurance, Solo 401(k) and SEP-IRA limits, QBI and more.
• The 15-minute monthly routine to stay ahead all year.