Quarterly Estimated Tax Calculator for Self-Employed (2026)

Who needs to pay quarterly taxes?

If you are self-employed (freelancer, independent contractor, sole proprietor, or gig worker), the IRS expects you to pay income tax and self-employment tax throughout the year rather than in one lump sum at tax time. The general rule: if you expect to owe $1,000 or more in federal taxes for the year, you should make quarterly estimated payments using Form 1040-ES.

When are quarterly payments due?

Despite the name "quarterly," the four payment periods are not evenly spaced. Q1 covers January through March (due April 15). Q2 covers just April and May (due June 15). Q3 covers June through August (due September 15). Q4 covers September through December (due January 15 of the following year). If a due date falls on a weekend or holiday, the deadline moves to the next business day.

Avoiding penalties with the safe harbor rule

The IRS charges an underpayment penalty if you do not pay enough throughout the year. You can avoid this penalty by meeting one of two safe harbor thresholds: pay at least 90% of your current year's tax liability, or pay 100% of last year's tax liability (110% if your adjusted gross income exceeded $150,000). Most self-employed people use the prior-year method because it gives a known target, even if your income fluctuates.

What this calculator includes

This tool estimates federal self-employment tax (Social Security and Medicare at 15.3%), the deductible half of SE tax, the 20% QBI deduction, and federal income tax using 2026 brackets and standard deductions. It then divides your total estimated liability into four equal quarterly payments. It does not include state taxes, additional Medicare tax on high earners, or credits. For a complete picture, consult a tax professional.