How this number is made
Estimated-tax vouchers split the year’s remaining tax into four payments. This page divides what is not already withheld by four. It does not decide whether you owe a penalty, and the IRS quarters are not equal calendar quarters.
- The annual figure is income tax plus self-employment tax you expect, from the paycheck or 1099 page.
- Withholding already taken, including a spouse’s withholding if you file together, reduces what the vouchers must cover.
Formula
Each voucher = (expected tax − withholding) ÷ 4.
Worked example
With the figures already in the form, each of four equal payments is $3,000.00.
Questions
Are the due dates every three months?
No. The usual federal dates are April, June, September, and January. The amounts on this page are equal. The calendar is not.
What about the safe harbor?
Paying 100% of last year’s tax, or 110% above an income threshold, can limit the penalty even if you owe more. That prior-year tax is not computed here.