Quarterly Estimated Tax Calculator (2026)
Compute Form 1040-ES quarterly payments so you steer clear of underpayment penalties.
Inputs
How it works
Total tax = federal income tax on (income − ½ SE tax − std deduction) + SE tax (15.3% on 92.35% of SE income). Divide by four to get the estimated payment due each quarter (April 15, June 15, Sept 15, Jan 15).
Frequently asked questions
Are these amounts an exact tax bill?
No. They use verified 2026 IRS/SSA figures but ignore credits, phase-outs and AMT. Use tax software or a CPA to file.
Marginal vs effective rate?
Marginal is the rate on your next dollar. Effective is total tax ÷ taxable income — always lower because earlier brackets fill first.
Standard or itemized?
Take whichever is larger. 2026 standard deduction: Single $16,100 · MFJ $32,200 · HoH $24,150 · MFS $16,100.
How is state tax handled?
Eight states impose no income tax. The rest are approximated at their top rate — see your state's brackets for a precise figure.