Question 1

What are the quarterly estimated tax payment due dates for 2026?

Accepted Answer

According to IRS Publication 519 and Publication 334, the estimated tax installment due dates for calendar-year taxpayers are April 15, 2026; June 15, 2026; September 15, 2026; and January 15, 2027. If a due date falls on a Saturday, Sunday, or legal holiday, the payment is due the next business day.

Question 2

Who is required to pay estimated taxes?

Accepted Answer

You generally must pay estimated taxes if you expect to owe at least $1,000 when you file your return and your withholding will not cover at least the smaller of 90% of your current-year tax or your required annual payment based on prior-year tax, per IRS Publication 505. This commonly applies to self-employed individuals, freelancers, investors, and retirees who receive income not subject to withholding.

Question 3

Can I pay my federal taxes by credit card or debit card?

Accepted Answer

Yes. According to IRS Publication 17, you can pay taxes owed with your return or estimated tax payments by debit or credit card through an IRS-approved payment processor, which will charge a processing fee. However, IRS Publication 15 specifically states that you should not use a credit or debit card to make federal tax deposits for employment taxes.

Question 4

What happens if I don't pay enough tax during the year?

Accepted Answer

If you fail to prepay at least the required minimum through withholding and estimated tax payments, you may be assessed an underpayment penalty, as described in IRS Publication 505 and Publication 17. This penalty applies even if you are owed a refund or pay the balance in full at filing time, because the U.S. tax system requires timely payment throughout the year.

Question 5

How does self-employment tax work when I file my return?

Accepted Answer

Self-employment tax is calculated on Schedule SE (Form 1040 or 1040-SR) using your net earnings from self-employment reported on Schedule C. Per IRS Publication 334, the SE tax rate is 15.3%—12.4% for Social Security (on net earnings up to $176,100 for 2025, subject to annual adjustment) and 2.9% for Medicare on all net earnings. You may deduct the employer-equivalent half of your SE tax as an adjustment to income on Form 1040.

Paying Taxes

Guides

Form 2106: A Guide for Employee Business Expenses

Common questions