Tax Calculator
Estimated Quarterly Payments
Calculate your federal estimated tax payments based on expected income, filing status, and withholding.
For informational purposes only. Not tax advice.
Your information
Enter your expected income and withholding for the tax year.
Income
Interest, dividends, capital gains
Deductions & Credits
IRA contributions, student loan interest
Employer withholding from paychecks
Enter your expected income to see estimated quarterly payments.
This calculator provides estimates for informational purposes only and does not constitute tax advice. Actual tax liability may differ based on your complete financial situation. Calculations use standard deductions only and do not account for itemized deductions, AMT, or state taxes. Consult a qualified tax professional for personalized guidance.
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How estimated quarterly tax payments work
The U.S. tax system operates on a pay-as-you-go basis. If you have income that is not subject to withholding - such as self-employment earnings, rental income, investment gains, or retirement distributions - the IRS expects you to make estimated tax payments throughout the year rather than waiting until you file your annual return.
Estimated payments are due four times per year: April 15, June 15, September 15, and January 15 of the following year. If a due date falls on a weekend or federal holiday, the deadline moves to the next business day. These payments cover both federal income tax and self-employment tax if applicable.
The IRS generally requires estimated payments if you expect to owe $1,000 or more in tax after subtracting withholding and credits. To avoid underpayment penalties, you should pay at least 90% of your current year tax liability or 100% of the prior year amount (110% if your adjusted gross income exceeded $150,000). This is known as the safe harbor rule.
Many taxpayers find it helpful to work with a CPA to calculate their quarterly estimates, especially if their income varies throughout the year. Overpaying results in a refund when you file, while underpaying can trigger penalties and interest charges.
Last updated: April 2026. This calculator uses current IRS tax rates and standard deduction amounts. It is intended for estimation purposes only and does not replace professional tax advice.