Blog / Topic
Estimated Taxes
How to calculate and pay quarterly estimated taxes, use the safe harbor rule, and set aside the right amount from every payment.
- IRS Underpayment Interest Rate Hits 7% in 2026: What It Actually Costs YouJuly 2026
The IRS underpayment interest rate rose to 7% on July 1, 2026, and it compounds daily. Here is how the rate is set, what it costs on a real shortfall, and how to stop it before September 15.
- Safe Harbor Rule Explained: How to Avoid the Underpayment Penalty Before September 15July 2026
You don't need to predict your exact tax bill to avoid a penalty. Learn the two safe harbor tests (90% of this year, or 100%/110% of last year) and how to check where you stand before the Q3 deadline.
- Missed a Quarterly Tax Payment? How Withholding Can Fix It Without Writing a CheckJuly 2026
The IRS treats withholding as paid evenly across the whole year, no matter when it happened. Here is how a W-2 job, a spouse's paycheck, or a year-end distribution can retroactively cover an underpaid quarter.
- Q2 2026 Quarterly Taxes: What Freelancers Need to Do Before June 15June 2026
Q2 estimated taxes are due June 15, 2026. Learn what income to include, how to calculate your payment, and the exact steps to pay before the deadline.
- Q3 2026 Quarterly Taxes: How to Prepare for the September 15 DeadlineJune 2026
Q3 estimated taxes are due September 15, 2026 and cover income from June through August. Learn what to do now to avoid a surprise payment in the fall.
- How the Safe-to-Spend Method Works for FreelancersApril 2026
The Safe-to-Spend method helps freelancers see what they can spend after setting aside money for taxes and business obligations.
- How to Pay Quarterly Estimated Taxes as a FreelancerApril 2026
A step-by-step guide to calculating, scheduling, and paying quarterly estimated taxes so freelancers avoid IRS penalties.