How much should I pay in quarterly estimated taxes for 2026 or 2027 planning?
Use this quarterly estimated tax calculator to plan IRS estimated payments for 2025, 2026, or 2027 planning. It combines self-employment tax and income tax, then applies either the 90% current-year method or prior-year safe-harbor rules.
quarterly estimated tax calculator
Quick answer
Quarterly estimated payments are usually based on either 90% of current-year tax or 100% to 110% of prior-year tax under safe-harbor rules. This planner estimates the annual target and splits remaining payments by quarter.
Also answers
- estimated tax payment calculator
- 1040-ES calculator
- self-employed quarterly tax calculator
- safe harbor tax calculator
Good fit when
- Freelancers with income not subject to withholding
- Business owners planning 1040-ES payments
- Taxpayers choosing between current-year and safe-harbor methods
Have ready
- Net profit, other income, and deductions
- Prior-year tax and AGI for safe harbor
- Payments already made and seasonal income split
Result you get
Estimated annual payment target, remaining amount, and quarterly payment schedule.
How this calculation works
- Calculates SE tax and income tax from net profit and deductions.
- Applies either 90% of current-year tax or the prior-year safe-harbor rule.
- Splits remaining payments into equal or seasonal quarters.
Common mistakes and caveats
- Safe-harbor thresholds depend on prior-year AGI.
- Income changes during the year can require recalculating payments.
- State estimated taxes are not included.
FAQ
What is the safe-harbor rule?
It generally means paying 100% (or 110% for higher AGI) of last year's tax to avoid penalties.
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