Quarterly Estimated Tax Calculator 2026
Know exactly what to send the IRS each quarter — and how to catch up if you’re behind — so you skip the underpayment penalty.
✏️ These numbers were filled in from a shared link — change anything to make it your own.
How quarterly estimated taxes work
Freelancers have no employer withholding taxes for them, so the IRS expects you to prepay in four installments across the year. This tool estimates your total self-employment + federal income tax, then splits what’s left across the deadlines you haven’t hit yet.
- April 15, 2026 — Q1
- June 15, 2026 — Q2
- September 15, 2026 — Q3
- January 15, 2027 — Q4
A 2026 planning estimate; ignores credits, the QBI deduction, and state-specific rules. Not tax advice.
Frequently asked questions
When are 2026 quarterly estimated taxes due?
For 2026 income the federal estimated payment deadlines are April 15, 2026, June 15, 2026, September 15, 2026, and January 15, 2027. Missing them can trigger an IRS underpayment penalty even if you pay in full at tax time.
How much should I pay each quarter?
A simple approach is to estimate your total tax for the year and pay a quarter of it by each deadline. This calculator estimates your total self-employment plus federal income tax and divides it into four payments — and if you have already paid some, it spreads the rest over the quarters still left.
What happens if I underpay?
The IRS charges an underpayment penalty (essentially interest) on what you should have paid each quarter. You can usually avoid it with the "safe harbor" rule: pay at least 90% of this year’s tax, or 100% of last year’s (110% if your income is high).
Do I pay state estimated taxes too?
Most states with an income tax also require quarterly estimates on roughly the same schedule, paid separately to the state. Enter your state rate above to fold a rough state amount into the total.
Is this tax advice?
No. It is a 2026 planning estimate that ignores credits, the QBI deduction, and state-specific rules. Confirm your numbers with a CPA or tax software.