Quarterly Tax Calculator 2026
Calculate your Q1–Q4 estimated tax payments for IRS Form 1040-ES.
For freelancers, contractors, investors — anyone without sufficient withholding.
Gross SE revenue minus business expenses (Schedule C net profit)
W-2 wages, rental income, dividends, capital gains not subject to withholding
Federal income tax already withheld from paychecks — reduces what you owe quarterly
From your 2025 Form 1040 line 24 — used to calculate your safe harbor minimum payment
How Quarterly Estimated Taxes Work in 2026
If you earn income that isn't subject to automatic withholding — freelance income, self-employment, rental income, investment gains, or alimony — you must pay the IRS quarterly to avoid a penalty. W-2 employees have taxes withheld automatically; everyone else must estimate and pay proactively.
The $1,000 Rule
You're required to make quarterly estimated tax payments if both of these are true: (1) you expect to owe at least $1,000 in federal tax after subtracting any withholding and credits, AND (2) your withholding will cover less than 90% of your current-year tax or less than 100% of your prior-year tax.
Safe Harbor Rule
The easiest way to avoid underpayment penalties: pay 100% of your prior year's total tax (or 110% if your prior AGI exceeded $150,000) divided into 4 equal payments. This "safe harbor" protects you regardless of how high your actual current-year income turns out to be.
Self-Employment Tax Is Included
Quarterly payments must cover both your federal income tax AND your self-employment tax (Schedule SE). Many new freelancers forget SE tax — the 15.3% on 92.35% of net earnings — and are caught off guard at filing time. This calculator includes SE tax in the quarterly payment calculation.
Related: Self-Employment Tax Calculator · 1099 vs W-2 Calculator · Take Home Pay Calculator
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