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Quarterly Tax Estimator

Figure out exactly how much to pay each quarter and when. No surprises. No underpayment penalties.

Quarterly Estimated Payment
$4,033
= $16,131 total annual tax
Set aside 27% of every payment to cover taxes

Tax Breakdown

Self-Employment Tax (15.3%)$8,478
Federal Income Tax$4,653
State Income Tax$3,000
TOTAL$16,131

2025 Payment Schedule

Q1 2025
Income: Jan 1 โ€“ Mar 31
$4,033
Due: April 15, 2025
Q2 2025
Income: Apr 1 โ€“ May 31
$4,033
Due: June 16, 2025
Q3 2025
Income: Jun 1 โ€“ Aug 31
$4,033
Due: September 15, 2025
Q4 2025
Income: Sep 1 โ€“ Dec 31
$4,033
Due: January 15, 2026
How to pay: Use IRS Direct Pay at irs.gov/payments or mail Form 1040-ES. Consider setting a calendar reminder 2 weeks before each due date.

Frequently Asked Questions

When are 2025 quarterly estimated tax payments due?

Q1: April 15, 2025 ยท Q2: June 16, 2025 ยท Q3: September 15, 2025 ยท Q4: January 15, 2026. Missing these deadlines can result in an underpayment penalty even if you pay in full by the annual April deadline.

How much should I set aside for taxes as a gig worker?

A common rule is 25โ€“30% of net profit for federal taxes โ€” covering 15.3% SE tax plus federal income tax. Add 5โ€“10% for state taxes if applicable. Use this calculator for a precise estimate based on your actual income and deductions.

What is the self-employment tax rate?

The SE tax rate is 15.3%: 12.4% for Social Security (on income up to $176,100 in 2025) and 2.9% for Medicare (no limit). You can deduct half of your SE tax as an above-the-line deduction.

What happens if I miss a quarterly tax payment?

The IRS charges an underpayment penalty (currently ~8% annualized) on any shortfall. Avoid it by paying at least 90% of this year's tax or 100% of last year's tax (110% if last year's AGI exceeded $150,000).

Sources: IRS Estimated Taxes Guide, IRS Schedule SE, IRS Publication 334. Last updated March 2026.