Free tool · 2026 tax year
Quarterly Tax Calculator for the Self-Employed
Freelancing, contracting, or running a business? No one withholds taxes for you — the IRS expects four payments a year. Enter your expected income and see what to send, and when.
Your 2026 numbers
Rough estimates are fine — you can refine as the year goes on.
Your estimated taxes
Enter your income to see your estimate.
Quarterly taxes, explained
Who has to pay quarterly estimated taxes?
Generally, anyone who expects to owe at least $1,000 in federal tax for the year from income that has no withholding — freelancers, 1099 contractors, gig workers, landlords, and small business owners. If you also have a W-2 job, your paycheck withholding may cover part of it.
When are quarterly taxes due in 2026?
For 2026 income: April 15, 2026 · June 15, 2026 · September 15, 2026 · January 15, 2027. If a date falls on a weekend or holiday, the deadline moves to the next business day.
What happens if I skip a quarterly payment?
The IRS charges an underpayment penalty that works like interest on the amount you should have paid. A common way to avoid it is the "safe harbor" rule: pay at least 100% of last year's total tax (110% if your income was over $150,000), spread evenly across the four deadlines.
How much should I set aside from each payment I receive?
A common rule of thumb is 25–30% of your net self-employment income for federal taxes, plus your state's income tax rate. The calculator above gives you a percentage personalized to your numbers.
Does this calculator include state taxes?
No — it estimates federal self-employment tax and federal income tax only. Most states with an income tax also require quarterly estimated payments on a similar schedule.
Estimates use 2026 federal tax figures (standard deduction, tax brackets, the Social Security wage base, and a simplified 20% qualified business income deduction) and assume no other credits, deductions, or withholding. Financial Ledger is not a CPA, EA, or licensed tax advisor; this tool is informational only and is not tax advice. Consult a qualified tax professional about your specific situation.