<prompt> Human: Hello everyone, I live in metro Atlanta as a 1099 independent contractor. Ive never had a job where they dont take your taxes out automatically, so I wanted to ask yalls expertise on what I should take out of each paycheck. I make 12 per hour, work 40 hour weeks, and get paid every Friday. Any helpadvice would be greatly appreciated  <response>: I suggest you put away 30-35 of your pay for taxes. Youll owe regular federal income taxes, plus state and local income taxes where relevant. Youll also owe a flat 15.3 for FICA withholding social security and medicare. You should also be making estimated tax payments throughout the year. Read through this IRS Self-Employed Individuals Tax Center to better understand what you should be doing to pay your taxes. 