Free US Estimated Quarterly Tax Calculator (2026/2027 IRS Standards)
Navigating self-employment taxes as a freelancer, independent contractor, or single-member LLC owner shouldn’t feel like a guessing game. Unlike traditional W-2 employees who have taxes automatically withheld from every paycheck, American business owners are required by the IRS to submit estimated tax payments four times a year using Form 1040-ES. Failing to calculate or pay enough can result in unexpected year-end bills and painful underpayment penalties. Use our US estimated quarterly tax calculator to instantly project your federal income tax, self-employment (FICA) tax, and state liabilities, giving you the exact quarterly breakdown needed to keep your business fully compliant and stress-free.
Quarterly Estimated Tax Calculator
Built for freelancers, contractors, and small business owners. Get an instant estimate of what to send the IRS each quarter, with no sign-up and nothing stored.
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IRS Quarterly Payment Schedule
If a deadline falls on a weekend or federal holiday, it moves to the next business day. Pay online via IRS Direct Pay or EFTPS.
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For educational estimates only; not tax, legal, or accounting advice. Uses projected 2026 federal brackets, standard deductions, and the $184,500 Social Security wage base. State tax is a flat-rate approximation applied to profit less half of SE tax. Ignores credits, other income, itemized deductions, and the safe-harbor rules (generally 100% of last year's tax, or 110% if AGI exceeded $150,000, or 90% of this year's). Consult a CPA or the IRS for your exact figures.
How to Calculate IRS Self-Employment & Quarterly Taxes Accurately
If you are a freelancer, independent contractor, single-member LLC owner, or solopreneur in the United States, you aren't having income and FICA taxes automatically withheld from a paycheck. Under IRS regulations, you are required to make estimated tax payments four times a year using Form 1040-ES. Failing to pay enough can trigger painful underpayment penalties. Our US estimated quarterly tax calculator instantly breaks down your projected federal income tax, self-employment tax, and state liabilities into precise quarterly payment amounts.
Who Needs This Quarterly Tax Estimator?
Built for American self-employed professionals navigating changing tax brackets.
Freelancers & Contractors
Keep your cash flow predictable by setting aside the exact percentage needed for taxes from every client invoice you collect.
Single-Member LLC Owners
Accurately account for both the employer and employee halves of the 15.3% self-employment (FICA) tax burden.
Side Hustle Earners
Combine your part-time business income cleanly to see how it affects your overall marginal tax bracket and quarterly obligations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Important IRS guidelines and deadline facts for US taxpayers.
What are the US quarterly tax deadlines?
For standard calendar-year taxpayers, IRS estimated tax payments are typically due four times a year: April 15, June 15, September 15, and January 15 of the following year.
How is self-employment tax calculated?
Self-employment tax consists of Social Security (12.4%) and Medicare (2.9%) for a total of 15.3%, levied on 92.35% of your net self-employment earnings up to statutory wage caps.
What happens if I miss a quarterly payment?
If you underpay or fail to make timely quarterly payments, the IRS may assess underpayment interest and penalties when you file your annual return.
Is this tax calculator free to use?
Yes! Our estimated quarterly tax calculator is completely free, offering real-time calculations to help you plan your business finances.