Simple Advice Bookkeeping logoSimple Advice Bookkeeping All apps

2026 · US federal tax planning

Quarterly Tax Estimator

A clearer picture of what to set aside for income and self-employment taxes.

For sole proprietors and single-member LLCs taxed as sole proprietors. Your financial figures stay on this page and aren't saved.

Your full-year numbers

Expected total for all of 2026, not just this quarter.

Exclude owner draws and personal spending.

Assumes ordinary wages subject to Social Security and Medicare.

Expected full-year total, including your spouse if filing jointly. Exclude Social Security and regular Medicare withholding.

A plan, not a tax bill

Income tax and self-employment tax are estimated separately using the IRS 2026 worksheet. Payment timing and prior-year safe harbors need a separate review.

2026 regular payment dates

Installment 1

April 15, 2026

Installment 2

June 15, 2026

Installment 3

September 15, 2026

Installment 4

January 15, 2027

Calendar-year dates. Disaster relief, uneven income and special rules can change your payment schedule.

What's included—and what's not

One US Schedule C business owner, eligible basic standard deduction and evenly earned income. No S/C corporations, partnerships, spouse self-employment or other income. Excludes state/local taxes, QBI deduction, credits, itemized or age-based deductions, other adjustments and special tax rules. Actual tax may differ materially.

The usual estimated-tax test compares 90% of current-year tax with 100% of prior-year tax (110% at higher prior-year income). This tool does not calculate that safe harbor or penalties.

IRS 2026 Form 1040-ES

Review your plan with Melissa

Organize your numbers and identify what to confirm with your tax professional.

Book a 15-minute call