Vantage
Reviewed by the Vantage Accounting Pros tax team · Nov 2026
Quick answer
If no one withholds tax from your business income, you generally need to pay estimated taxes four times a year. Paying enough each quarter avoids underpayment penalties and a large bill in April.
When they're due
Estimated payments are generally due April 15, June 15, September 15 and January 15 of the following year. When a date falls on a weekend or holiday, it moves to the next business day.
How much to pay
A common safe harbor is paying at least 100% of last year's total tax (110% if your prior-year income was above $150,000), or 90% of this year's tax.
If your income is uneven through the year, a different method can lower early payments. We'll help you pick the right one.
This guide is general information, not advice for your situation. Talk to us about your numbers.