10/22/2026
How Much of Your Business Income Should You Set Aside for Taxes?
If you’re a business owner, freelancer, or independent contractor, one of the most important financial habits you can build is setting aside money for taxes throughout the year.
But how much should you actually save?
The answer depends on your income, business expenses, filing status, and overall tax situation. There’s no single percentage that works for everyone.
Here’s what to consider:
📌 1. Understand which taxes you may owe.
Depending on your business structure and circumstances, you may owe federal income tax, self-employment tax, state income tax, and other applicable taxes.
📌 2. Calculate your profit—not just your revenue.
Your tax situation generally depends on your taxable income, not simply how much money your business brings in. Track your income and eligible business expenses to get a clearer picture of your finances.
📌 3. Make tax savings part of your routine.
Instead of waiting until tax season, consider transferring a portion of your business income into a separate savings account regularly. This can help you avoid spending money you’ll need later.
📌 4. Review your estimated tax payments.
Many self-employed individuals and business owners need to make quarterly estimated tax payments. For federal taxes, individuals generally need to consider estimated payments if they expect to owe at least $1,000 when filing, after withholding and refundable credits, subject to additional rules and exceptions.
📌 5. Revisit your numbers throughout the year.
If your income increases, your expenses change, or your business experiences a slower season, your tax plan may need to change, too.
The biggest takeaway? Don’t wait until tax season to figure out how you’ll pay your tax bill.
A little planning throughout the year can help you manage cash flow, avoid surprises, and make more informed financial decisions.
At BFMS, we believe understanding your numbers is an important step toward spending less time worrying about your finances and more time focusing on your business.
💬 Do you set aside money for taxes throughout the year, or do you tend to figure it out when tax season arrives?