Maryland Freelancer Deduction Calculator 2026
See how business deductions reduce your Maryland freelancer taxes in 2026. Deductions lower your net SE income, which reduces both your SE tax and Maryland state income tax.
Deductions for Maryland Freelancers
Maryland has a progressive state income tax with rates up to 6.5%, but Maryland is distinctive because every county (and Baltimore City) adds its own income tax — called a county income tax — ranging from 2.25% to 3.2%. Baltimore City charges 3.2%, as do Montgomery and Prince George's Counties. This means Maryland workers in major areas effectively pay 9-10% in combined state and county income tax — among the highest effective rates in the nation for middle earners. Maryland's standard deduction is modest at $3,350 for single filers. No additional city-within-county income taxes apply beyond the county rate. Compared to neighboring Virginia (up to 5.75%, no county tax) and Pennsylvania (3.07% flat, city taxes in major cities), Maryland's combined burden is notably higher.