Quarterly estimated tax calculator for the self-employed (2026)
Enter what you expect to earn this year. You'll see your self-employment tax, federal income tax and what to pay each quarter.
You'll likely owe $1,000 or more, so the IRS expects quarterly payments.
You'll likely owe under $1,000, so quarterly payments may not be required.
Your income is above the QBI threshold, where limits can shrink the deduction. Ask a tax pro.
When to pay
- Apr 15, 2026
Payment 1 for 2026
Already passed. If you missed it, pay as soon as you can to limit the penalty.
- Jun 15, 2026
Payment 2 for 2026
Already passed. If you missed it, pay as soon as you can to limit the penalty.
- Sep 15, 2026
Payment 3 for 2026
Already passed. If you missed it, pay as soon as you can to limit the penalty.
- Jan 15, 2027
Payment 4 for 2026
Pay online at IRS Direct Pay or EFTPS.
Next payment: Jan 15, 2027.
How it works
As a business owner, nobody withholds tax from your profit. You pay it yourself four times a year: self-employment tax (Social Security and Medicare, 15.3% on 92.35% of profit) plus income tax. You avoid an underpayment penalty if you pay at least 90% of this year's tax, or 100% of last year's (110% if your income was over $150,000).
An estimate for planning, not tax advice. It assumes a single-owner LLC or sole proprietor, the standard deduction and federal tax only. Your state may add income tax. A tax pro can confirm your numbers. Figures: IRS and SSA for 2026, checked Oct 4, 2026.