Quarterly estimated taxes — the safe-harbor rules that prevent IRS penalties
How to pay just enough to stay compliant without overpaying the IRS interest-free.
The IRS expects you to pay tax as you earn it. If you owe more than $1,000 at filing and didn't meet a safe harbor, you'll owe an underpayment penalty even if you pay in full by April 15.
Safe harbors: pay at least 90% of this year's actual tax — OR 100% of last year's total tax (110% if your AGI was over $150K). The second one is gold: it lets you base estimates on a known number instead of guessing.
Estimates are due April 15, June 15, September 15, and January 15. Pay via IRS Direct Pay or EFTPS — both free, both fast.
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