2026 IRS Quarterly Estimated Tax Deadlines & Schedule
Never miss a payment or pay underpayment penalties. Track exact due dates and safe harbor rules.
Next IRS Quarterly Payment Deadline
Q3 Estimated Tax Due: September 15, 2026
Calculating countdown...
Q1 Payment
Period 1
April 15, 2026
Covers income earned Jan 1 – Mar 31.
Q2 Payment
Period 2
June 15, 2026
Covers income earned Apr 1 – May 31.
Q3 Payment
Upcoming ⚡
Sept 15, 2026
Covers income earned Jun 1 – Aug 31.
Q4 Payment
Period 4
Jan 15, 2027
Covers income earned Sep 1 – Dec 31.
🛡️ IRS Safe Harbor Rules: How to Avoid Underpayment Penalties
The IRS requires self-employed individuals to pay estimated taxes as they earn income. You will avoid all underpayment penalties if you pay at least one of the following via quarterly installments:
Option 1: 90% Rule
Pay at least 90% of the tax you will owe for the current 2026 tax year.
Option 2: 100% / 110% Prior Year Rule
Pay 100% of the total tax shown on your prior year tax return (110% if your AGI was over $150,000).
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