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Quarterly Tax Estimator

2026 Tax Year

Calculate your quarterly estimated tax payments to avoid underpayment penalties. Uses safe harbor rules to determine the minimum required payments.

Filing Status

Income Type

$
$

Deductible business expenses reduce your taxable income

$

Tax Withholding & Prior Year

$

Enter 0 if you're fully self-employed with no W-2 withholding

$

Find this on Line 24 of your 2024 Form 1040 (total tax)

Quarterly Estimated Payment
$3,750
Pay quarterly to avoid penalties

2026 Due Dates

Q1 2026

Jan 1 - Mar 31

$3,750

April 15, 2026

Q2 2026

Apr 1 - May 31

$3,750

June 15, 2026

Q3 2026

Jun 1 - Aug 31

$3,750

September 15, 2026

Q4 2026

Sep 1 - Dec 31

$3,750

January 15, 2027

Total Estimated Payments$15,000

Tax Summary

Net SE Income$80,000
SE Tax (15.3%)$11,304
Income Tax$7,971
Total Tax$19,274

Safe Harbor

100% of prior year$15,000
90% of current year$17,347
Required (lesser of)$15,000

Stay Organized

iFileTax tracks your quarterly payments and reminds you before deadlines.

Freelancer Tax Hub

Understanding Safe Harbor Rules

What is Safe Harbor?

Safe harbor is an IRS rule that helps you avoid underpayment penalties. If you pay at least the "safe harbor" amount through withholding or estimated payments, you won't be penalized even if you owe more when you file.

The Two Options

  • 100% of prior year: Pay what you owed last year (110% if AGI > $150k)
  • 90% of current year: Pay 90% of what you'll owe this year

Pro Tips

  • 1.If your income is variable, using 100% of prior year is often safer
  • 2.You can make uneven payments based on when you earn income
  • 3.Consider opening a separate savings account for tax payments
  • 4.Set aside 25-30% of each payment you receive for taxes

Disclaimer

This calculator provides estimates based on 2025 tax rates and the standard deduction. It does not account for all possible deductions, credits, or tax situations. State estimated taxes are not included. Consult a tax professional for personalized advice.