Who needs to pay quarterly estimated taxes?
You generally must make estimated payments if you expect to owe $1,000 or more in federal tax for the year after subtracting withholding and credits. That includes most freelancers, independent contractors, gig workers and people with significant investment income.
2026 estimated tax due dates
| Payment | Covers income earned | Due date |
|---|---|---|
| 1st quarter | Jan 1 to Mar 31 | April 15, 2026 |
| 2nd quarter | Apr 1 to May 31 | June 15, 2026 |
| 3rd quarter | Jun 1 to Aug 31 | September 15, 2026 |
| 4th quarter | Sep 1 to Dec 31 | January 15, 2027 |
The safe harbor rules
You won't owe an underpayment penalty if your withholding plus timely estimated payments equal at least the smaller of:
- 90% of the tax you'll owe for 2026, or
- 100% of the tax on your 2025 return (110% if your 2025 adjusted gross income was over $150,000).
The prior-year option is popular because you know the number in advance: even if your income jumps, paying 100% or 110% of last year's tax in four equal installments protects you from penalties. You'll still owe the balance by April 15, 2027, so keep setting money aside.
How to pay
Pay online through IRS Direct Pay or your IRS Online Account, through EFTPS, or by mail with Form 1040-ES vouchers. Most states with an income tax have their own estimated payment schedule.
Frequently asked questions
What happens if I miss a quarterly payment?
Can I pay all four quarters at once?
Does W-2 withholding count?
Last reviewed: 2026-10-09