2026 quarterly tax calculator
Self-Employed Quarterly Tax Calculator 2026
Estimate how much to set aside each quarter for federal income tax, self-employment tax, and state tax — before IRS due dates hit.
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Frequently Asked Questions
For tax year 2026, estimated payments are due April 15, 2026 (Q1), June 16, 2026 (Q2), September 15, 2026 (Q3), and January 15, 2027 (Q4).
Estimate your annual federal income tax, self-employment tax (15.3% on net self-employment income), and state income tax, then divide by four. This calculator uses IRS-backed 2026 rates and applies the half-SE-tax deduction before computing federal income tax.
The IRS may charge an underpayment penalty based on how much you owed and how late each payment was. Paying as you earn income reduces penalty risk — even if estimates are imperfect.
Generally yes if you expect to owe $1,000 or more in tax after withholding and credits, or if withholding will cover less than 90% of this year's tax or 100% of last year's tax (110% for higher incomes).
Data Sources & Methodology
ExactTakeHome tax data is sourced from official government publications and verified against primary sources. Last verified: .
- Federal withholding: IRS Publication 15-T — Federal Income Tax Withholding Methods
- Social Security wage base: SSA 2026 Social Security Wage Base
- Medicare rates: IRS Topic No. 751 — Social Security and Medicare Withholding Rates
- State income tax: California Franchise Tax Board — 2026 California Employer's Withholding Schedules
How quarterly estimates work
Self-employed workers pay both halves of Social Security and Medicare through self-employment tax, plus federal and state income tax on adjusted net earnings. The IRS expects quarterly estimated payments when withholding will not cover your full liability.
This tool divides your annual estimate into four equal payments using 2026 tax tables. Your actual liability may differ if income varies quarter to quarter — consult a tax professional for personalized planning.