2026 Estimated Tax Deadlines
The four federal estimated tax payment dates for tax year 2026. Verified against IRS Form 1040-ES.
2026 Payment Schedule
- Q1: April 15, 2026
- Q2: June 15, 2026
- Q3: September 15, 2026
- Q4: January 15, 2027
All four dates fall on weekdays in 2026/2027, so no weekend or holiday shift applies.
How to Pay
- IRS Direct Pay — Free bank transfer
- EFTPS — Schedule payments in advance
- Pay by Card — Debit or credit card (fees apply)
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About Estimated Tax Deadlines
The IRS requires quarterly estimated tax payments from individuals whose income is not subject to withholding, including self-employed workers, independent contractors, and gig economy participants. If you expect to owe $1,000 or more in tax for the year, you generally need to make estimated payments.
The four payment periods are not equal quarters: Q1 covers January 1 through March 31 (due April 15), Q2 covers April 1 through May 31 (due June 15), Q3 covers June 1 through August 31 (due September 15), and Q4 covers September 1 through December 31 (due January 15 of the following year).
Frequently Asked Questions
When are 2026 federal estimated tax payments due?
The four 2026 federal estimated tax payment deadlines are April 15, 2026, June 15, 2026, September 15, 2026, and January 15, 2027. If any date falls on a weekend or federal holiday, the deadline shifts to the next business day.
What happens if I miss a quarterly tax deadline?
If you miss a deadline or underpay, the IRS charges an underpayment penalty calculated as interest on the shortfall from the due date until you pay.
Can I pay weekly or monthly instead of quarterly?
Yes. The IRS allows you to pay estimated taxes as frequently as you want as long as you have paid enough by each quarterly deadline.
How do I pay my estimated taxes?
You can pay online through IRS Direct Pay, EFTPS, or by debit/credit card. You can also mail a check with Form 1040-ES.
Verification: These dates are verified against IRS Form 1040-ES (2026). Parameter version: irs-2026.08.23. Last verified: 2026-08-23.