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Outline

The IRS 1040-ES form plays a crucial role for many taxpayers, particularly those who earn income that isn't subject to withholding, such as self-employed individuals or freelancers. This form is designed to help taxpayers estimate their quarterly tax payments, ensuring they stay compliant with federal tax obligations throughout the year. By providing a structured way to calculate estimated taxes based on expected income, deductions, and credits, the 1040-ES helps individuals avoid penalties for underpayment. Each quarter, taxpayers must submit their payments, which can be made electronically or via mail, depending on their preference. Additionally, the form includes worksheets to assist in determining the correct amount to pay, making it easier to manage tax responsibilities. Understanding the 1040-ES is essential for effective financial planning and maintaining good standing with the IRS.

Sample - IRS 1040-ES Form

2025

Form 1040-ES

Estimated Tax for Individuals

Purpose of This Package

Exception. You don’t have to pay estimated tax for 2025

Use Form 1040-ES to figure and pay your estimated tax

if you were a U.S. citizen or resident alien for all of 2024

for 2025.

and you had no tax liability for the full 12-month 2024 tax

 

Estimated tax is the method used to pay tax on income

year. You had no tax liability for 2024 if your total tax was

 

zero or you didn’t have to file an income tax return.

that isn’t subject to withholding (for example, earnings

Special Rules

from self-employment, including gig economy work,

interest, dividends, rents, alimony, etc.). In addition, if you

There are special rules for those who have income from

don’t elect voluntary withholding, you should make

farming and fishing, for certain household employers, and

estimated tax payments on other taxable income, such as

certain higher income taxpayers.

unemployment compensation and the taxable part of your

Farming and fishing. If at least two-thirds of your gross

social security benefits.

Preprinted vouchers. If you made estimated tax

income for 2024 or 2025 is from farming or fishing,

substitute 662/3% for 90% in (2a) under General Rule.

payments for 2024, this package may contain vouchers

Household employers. When estimating the tax on your

that are preprinted with your name, address, and SSN.

 

 

If your name or SSN isn't correct, make the

2025 tax return, include your household employment

 

 

taxes if either of the following applies.

TIP

necessary changes on the vouchers. Cross out

You will have federal income tax withheld from wages,

 

 

the name and SSN of a deceased or divorced

pensions, annuities, gambling winnings, or other income.

spouse.

You would be required to make estimated tax payments

Change of address. If your address has changed, file

to avoid a penalty even if you didn’t include household

employment taxes when figuring your estimated tax.

Form 8822, to update your record.

Higher income taxpayers. If your adjusted gross

Future developments. For the latest information about

income (AGI) for 2024 was more than $150,000 ($75,000

developments related to Form 1040-ES and its

if your filing status for 2025 is married filing separately),

instructions, such as legislation enacted after they were

substitute 110% for 100% in (2b) under General Rule,

published, go to

IRS.gov/Form1040ES

.

earlier. If at least two-thirds of your gross income for 2024

 

Who Must Make Estimated Tax

or 2025 is from farming or fishing, this rule doesn't apply.

Payments

Increase Your Withholding

The estimated tax rules apply to:

If you also receive salaries and wages, you may be able to

U.S. citizens and resident aliens;

avoid having to make estimated tax payments on your

Residents of Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands,

other income by asking your employer to take more tax out

Guam, the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana

of your earnings. To do this, file a new Form W-4,

Islands, and American Samoa; and

Employee's Withholding Certificate, with your employer.

Nonresident aliens (use Form 1040-ES (NR)).

Generally, if you receive a pension or annuity you can

General Rule

use Form W-4P, Withholding Certificate for Periodic

Pension or Annuity Payments, to start or change your

In most cases, you must pay estimated tax for 2025 if both

withholding from these payments.

of the following apply.

You can also choose to have federal income tax

 

1. You expect to owe at least $1,000 in tax for 2025,

withheld from certain government payments (see Form

after subtracting your withholding and refundable credits.

W-4V, Voluntary Withholding Request) or from

 

2. You expect your withholding and refundable credits

nonperiodic payments and eligible rollover distributions

to be less than the smaller of:

(see Form W-4R, Withholding Certificate for Nonperiodic

or a.

90% of the tax to be shown on your 2025 tax return,

Payments and Eligible Rollover Distributions).

 

You can use the Tax Withholding Estimator at

 

b. 100% of the tax shown on your 2024 tax return. Your

TIP

IRS.gov/W4App

to determine whether you need to

2024 tax return must cover all 12 months.

 

have your withholding increased or decreased.

Note. These percentages may be different if you have

Additional Information You May Need

income from farming or fishing or are a higher income

You can find most of the information you will need in Pub.

taxpayer. See Special Rules, later.

505, Tax Withholding and Estimated Tax, and in the

 

 

 

 

 

instructions for the 2024 Form 1040 and 1040-SR.

January 21, 2025

Instructions for Form 1040es (2025) Catalog Number 11340T

Department of the Treasury Internal Revenue Service www.irs.gov

For details on how to get forms and publications, see the 2024 Instructions for Form 1040.

What's New

In figuring your 2025 estimated tax, be sure to consider the following.

Standard deduction amount increased. For 2025, the standard deduction amount has been increased for all filers. If you don't itemize your deductions, you can take the 2025 standard deduction listed in the following chart for your filing status.

IF your 2025 filing status is...

THEN your standard

deduction is...

 

Married filing jointly or

$30,000

Qualifying surviving spouse

 

Head of household

$22,500

Single or Married filing separately

$15,000

 

 

 

However, if you can be claimed as a dependent on

another person's 2025 return, your standard deduction is

the greater of:

 

$1,350, or

 

Your earned income plus $450 (up to the standard

deduction amount).

 

 

Your standard deduction is increased by the following

amount if, at the end of 2025, you are:

 

An unmarried individual (single or head of household)

and are:

 

65 or older or blind

$2,000

65 or older and blind

$4,000

A married individual (filing jointly or separately) or a qualifying surviving spouse and are:

65 or older or blind

$1,600

65 or older and blind

$3,200

Both spouses 65 or older

$3,200*

Both spouses 65 or older and blind

$6,400*

*Only if married filing jointly. If married filing separately, these amounts do not apply.

Your standard deduction is zero if (a) your spouse ! itemizes on a separate return, or (b) you were a

CAUTION dual-status alien and you do not elect to be taxed as a resident alien for 2025.

Social security tax. For 2025, the maximum amount of earned income (wages and net earnings from self-employment) subject to the social security tax is $176,100.

Additional child tax credit amount. For 2025, the maximum additional child tax credit amount is $1,700 for each qualifying child.

Adoption credit or exclusion. For 2025, the maximum adoption credit or exclusion for employer-provided adoption benefits has increased to $17,280. In order to

claim either the credit or exclusion, your modified adjusted gross income must be less than $299,190.

Reminders

Expired individual taxpayer identification number (ITIN) and renewal. If you have an ITIN that you haven't included on a tax return in the last 3 consecutive years, it may be expired and you may need to renew it. If your ITIN has expired and you don't have an SSN, you can make estimated tax payments before you renew your ITIN. To renew your ITIN, and for more information, see the Instructions for Form W-7.

Advance payments of the premium tax credit. If you buy health care insurance through the Health Insurance Marketplace, you may be eligible for advance payments of the premium tax credit to help pay for your insurance coverage. Receiving too little or too much in advance will affect your refund or balance due. Promptly report changes in your income or family size to your Marketplace. See Form 8962 and its instructions for more information.

Form 1040-SS filers. The Estimated Tax Worksheet for filers of Form 1040-SS is included on Form 1040-ES.

Access Your Online Account

Go to IRS.gov/Account to securely access information about your federal tax account.

View the amount you owe and a breakdown by tax year.

See payment plan details or apply for a new payment plan.

Make a payment, view 5 years of payment history and any pending or scheduled payments.

Access your tax records, including key data from your most recent tax return and transcripts.

View digital copies of select notices from the IRS.

Approve or reject authorization requests from tax professionals.

View your address on file or manage your communication preferences.

How To Figure Your Estimated Tax

You will need:

The 2025 Estimated Tax Worksheet,

The Instructions for the 2025 Estimated Tax Worksheet,

The 2025 Tax Rate Schedules, and

Your 2024 tax return and instructions to use as a guide to figuring your income, deductions, and credits (but be sure to consider the items listed under What's New, earlier).

Matching estimated tax payments to income. If you receive your income unevenly throughout the year (for example, because you operate your business on a seasonal basis or you have a large capital gain late in the year), you may be able to lower or eliminate the amount of your required estimated tax payment for one or more periods by using the annualized income installment method. See chapter 2 of Pub. 505 for details.

Changing your estimated tax. To amend or correct your estimated tax, see How To Amend Estimated Tax Payments, later.

2

Form 1040-ES (2025)

You can’t make joint estimated tax payments if you ! or your spouse is a nonresident alien, you are

CAUTION separated under a decree of divorce or separate maintenance, or you and your spouse have different tax years.

Additionally, individuals who are in registered domestic partnerships, civil unions, or other similar formal relationships that aren’t marriages under state law cannot make joint estimated tax payments. These individuals can take credit only for the estimated tax payments that they made.

Payment Due Dates

You can pay all of your estimated tax by April 15, 2025, or in four equal amounts by the dates shown below.

1st payment

April 15, 2025

2nd payment

June 16, 2025

3rd payment

Sept. 15, 2025

4th payment

Jan. 15, 2026*

*You don’t have to make the payment due January 15, 2026, if you file your 2025 tax return by February 2, 2026, and pay the entire balance due with your return.

If you mail your payment and it is postmarked by the due date, the date of the U.S. postmark is considered the date of payment. If your payments are late or you didn’t pay enough, you may be charged a penalty for underpaying your tax. See When a Penalty Is Applied, later.

You can make more than four estimated tax TIP payments. To do so, make a copy of one of your

unused estimated tax payment vouchers, fill it in, and mail it with your payment. If you make more than four payments, to avoid a penalty, make sure the total of the amounts you pay during a payment period is at least as much as the amount required to be paid by the due date for that period. For other payment methods, see How To Pay Estimated Tax, later.

No income subject to estimated tax during first pay- ment period. If, after March 31, 2025, you have a large change in income, deductions, additional taxes, or credits that requires you to start making estimated tax payments, you should figure the amount of your estimated tax payments by using the annualized income installment method, explained in chapter 2 of Pub. 505. If you use the annualized income installment method, file Form 2210, including Schedule AI, with your 2025 tax return even if no penalty is owed.

Farming and fishing. If at least two-thirds of your gross income for 2024 or 2025 is from farming or fishing, you can do one of the following.

Pay all of your estimated tax by January 15, 2026.

File your 2025 Form 1040 or 1040-SR by March 2, 2026, and pay the total tax due. In this case, 2025 estimated tax payments aren’t required to avoid a penalty. Fiscal year taxpayers. You are on a fiscal year if your

12-month tax period ends on any day except December 31. Due dates for fiscal year taxpayers are the 15th day of the 4th, 6th, and 9th months of your current fiscal year and

the 1st month of the following fiscal year. If any payment date falls on a Saturday, Sunday, or legal holiday, use the next business day. See Pub. 509, Tax Calendars, for a list of all legal holidays.

Name Change

If you changed your name because of marriage, divorce, etc., and you made estimated tax payments using your former name, attach a statement to the front of your 2025 paper tax return. On the statement, show all of the estimated tax payments you (and your spouse, if filing jointly) made for 2025 and the name(s) and SSN(s) under which you made the payments.

Be sure to report the change to your local Social Security Administration office before filing your 2025 tax return. This prevents delays in processing your return and issuing refunds. It also safeguards your future social security benefits. For more details, call the Social Security Administration at 800-772-1213 (TTY/TDD 800-325-0778).

How To Amend Estimated Tax Payments

To change or amend your estimated tax payments, refigure your total estimated tax payments due (see the 2025 Estimated Tax Worksheet). Then, to figure the payment due for each remaining payment period, see Amended estimated tax in chapter 2 of Pub. 505. If an estimated tax payment for a previous period is less than one-fourth of your amended estimated tax, you may owe a penalty when you file your return.

When a Penalty Is Applied

In some cases, you may owe a penalty when you file your return. The penalty is imposed on each underpayment for the number of days it remains unpaid. A penalty may be applied if you didn’t pay enough estimated tax for the year or you didn’t make the payments on time or in the required amount.

The penalty may be waived under certain conditions. See the Instructions for Form 2210 for details.

How To Pay Estimated Tax

Pay Online

Paying online is convenient and secure and helps make sure we get your payments on time. To pay your taxes online or for more information, go to IRS.gov/Payments.

Once you are issued a social security number (SSN), use it when paying your estimated taxes online. Use your SSN even if your SSN does not authorize employment or if you have been issued an SSN that authorizes employment and you lose your employment authorization. An ITIN will not be issued to you once you have been issued an SSN. If you received your SSN after previously using an ITIN, stop using your ITIN. Use your SSN instead.

Payments of U.S. tax must be remitted to the IRS in U.S. dollars. Digital assets are not accepted.

You can pay using any of the following methods.

Form 1040-ES (2025)

3

Your Online Account. You can make tax payments through your online account, including balance payments, estimated tax payments, or other types. You can also see your payment history and other tax records there. Go to IRS.gov/Account.

IRS Direct Pay. For online transfers directly from your checking or savings account at no cost to you, go to IRS.gov/Payments.

Debit Card, Credit Card, or Digital Wallet. To pay by debit or credit card or digital wallet, go to IRS.gov/ Payments. A fee is charged by these service providers.You can also pay by phone with a debit or credit card. See Debit or credit card under Pay by Phone, later.

Electronic Fund Withdrawal. (EFW) is an integrated e-file/e-pay option offered when filing your federal taxes electronically using tax preparation software, through a tax professional, or the IRS at IRS.gov/Payments.

Online Payment Agreement. If you can’t pay in full by the due date of your tax return, you can apply for an online monthly installment agreement at IRS.gov/OPA. Once you complete the online process, you will receive immediate notification of whether your agreement has been approved. A user fee is charged.

Electronic Federal Tax Payment System (EFTPS)

Allows you to pay your taxes online or by phone directly from your checking or saving account.There is no fee for this service. You must be enrolled either online or have an enrollment form mailed to you. See EFTPS under Pay by Phone, later.

Pay by Phone

Paying by phone is another safe and secure method of paying electronically. Use one of the following methods:

(1) call one of the debit or credit card service providers, or

(2) the Electronic Federal Tax Payment System (EFTPS) to pay directly from your checking or savings account. Debit or credit card. Call one of our service providers. Each charges a fee that varies by provider, card type, and payment amount.

Link2Gov Corporation

888-PAY-1040TM (888-729-1040) www.PAY1040.com

ACI Payments, Inc.

888-UPAY-TAXTM (888-872-9829) fed.acipayonline.com

EFTPS. To get more information about EFTPS or to enroll in EFTPS, visit EFTPS.gov or call 800-555-4477. To contact EFTPS using Telecommunications Relay Services (TRS) for people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, dial 711 and then provide the TRS assistant the 800-555-4477 number above or

800-733-4829. Additional information about EFTPS is also available in Pub. 966.

Mobile Device

To pay through your mobile device, download the IRS2Go app.

Pay by Cash

You can pay your taxes in cash. To find out about the different cash payment methods, go to IRS.gov/PayCash. Don't send cash payments through the mail.

Pay by Check or Money Order Using the Estimated Tax Payment Voucher

Before submitting a payment through the mail using the estimated tax payment voucher, please consider alternative methods. One of our safe, quick, and easy online payment options might be right for you.

If you choose to mail in your payment, there is a separate estimated tax payment voucher for each due date. The due date is shown in the upper right corner. Complete and send in the voucher only if you are making a payment by check or money order. If you and your spouse plan to file separate returns, file separate vouchers instead of a joint voucher.

To complete the voucher, do the following.

Print or type your name, address, and SSN in the space provided on the estimated tax payment voucher. Enter your SSN even if your SSN does not authorize employment or if you have been issued an SSN that authorizes employment and you lose your employment authorization. If you have an ITIN, enter it wherever your SSN is requested. An ITIN will not be issued to you once you have been issued an SSN. If you received your SSN after previously using an ITIN, stop using your ITIN. Use your SSN instead. If filing a joint voucher, also enter your spouse's name and SSN. List the names and SSNs in the same order on the joint voucher as you will list them on your joint return.

Enter in the box provided on the estimated tax payment voucher only the amount you are sending in by check or money order. When making payments of estimated tax, be sure to take into account any 2024 overpayment that you choose to credit against your 2025 tax, but don’t include the overpayment amount in this box.

Make your check or money order payable to “United States Treasury.” Don’t send cash. To help process your payment accurately, enter the amount on the right side of the check like this: $ XXX.XX. Don’t use dashes or lines (for example, don’t enter “$ XXX—” or “$ XXX xx/100”).

Enter “2025 Form 1040-ES” and your SSN on your check or money order. If you are filing a joint estimated tax payment voucher, enter the SSN that you will show first on your joint return.

Enclose, but don’t staple or attach, your payment with the estimated tax payment voucher.

Notice to taxpayers presenting checks. When you provide a check as payment, you authorize us either to use information from your check to make a one-time electronic fund transfer from your account or to process the payment as a check transaction. When we use information from your check to make an electronic fund transfer, funds may be withdrawn from your account as soon as the same day we receive your payment, and you will not receive your check back from your financial institution.

No checks of $100 million or more accepted. The IRS can’t accept a single check (including a cashier’s

4

Form 1040-ES (2025)

check) for amounts of $100,000,000 ($100 million) or more. If you are sending $100 million or more by check, you will need to spread the payment over 2 or more checks with each check made out for an amount less than

$100 million. This limit doesn’t apply to other methods of payment (such as electronic payments). Please consider a method of payment other than check if the amount of the payment is over $100 million.

Where To File Your Estimated Tax Payment Voucher if Paying by Check or Money Order

Mail your estimated tax payment voucher and check or money order to the address shown below for the place where you live. Do not mail your tax return to this address or send an estimated tax payment without a payment voucher. Also, do not mail your estimated tax payments to the address shown in the Form 1040 instructions. If you need more payment vouchers, you can make a copy of one of your unused vouchers.

Caution: Only the U.S. Postal Service can deliver to P.O. boxes. You can't use a private delivery service to make estimated tax payments required to be sent to a P.O. box. For proper delivery of your estimated tax payment to a P.O. box, you must include the box number in the address.

IF you live in . . .

THEN send it to . . .

IF you live in . . .

THEN send it to . . .

 

 

 

 

Alabama, Arizona, Florida, Georgia,

Internal Revenue Service

A foreign country, American Samoa,

Internal Revenue Service

Louisiana, Mississippi, New Mexico,

P.O. Box 1300

or Puerto Rico (or are excluding

P.O. Box 1303

North Carolina, South Carolina,

Charlotte, NC 28201-1300

income under Internal Revenue

Charlotte, NC 28201-1303

Tennessee, Texas

 

Code 933), or use an APO or FPO

 

 

 

address, or file Form 2555 or 4563,

 

 

 

or are a dual-status alien or

 

 

 

nonpermanent resident of Guam or

 

 

 

the U.S. Virgin Islands

 

Arkansas, Connecticut, Delaware,

Internal Revenue Service

Guam:

Department of

District of Columbia, Illinois, Indiana,

P.O. Box 931100

Bona fide residents*

Revenue and Taxation

Iowa, Kentucky, Maine, Maryland,

Louisville, KY 40293-1100

 

Government of Guam

Massachusetts, Minnesota, Missouri,

 

 

P.O. Box 23607

New Hampshire, New Jersey, New

 

 

GMF, GU 96921

York, Oklahoma, Rhode Island,

 

 

 

Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia,

 

 

 

Wisconsin

 

 

 

Alaska, California, Colorado, Hawaii,

Internal Revenue Service

U.S. Virgin Islands:

Virgin Islands Bureau

Idaho, Kansas, Michigan, Montana,

P.O. Box 802502

Bona fide residents*

of Internal Revenue

Nebraska, Nevada, Ohio, Oregon,

Cincinnati, OH 45280-2502

 

6115 Estate Smith Bay

North Dakota, Pennsylvania, South

 

 

Suite 225

Dakota, Utah, Washington, Wyoming

 

 

St. Thomas, VI 00802

*Bona fide residents must prepare separate vouchers for estimated income tax and self-employment tax payments. Send the income tax vouchers to the address for bona fide residents and the self-employment tax vouchers to the address for non-bona fide residents.

Instructions for the 2025 Estimated Tax Worksheet

If you file Form 1040-SS, use the 2025 Estimated ! Tax Worksheet for Filers of Form 1040-SS.

CAUTION

Line 1. Adjusted gross income. When figuring the adjusted gross income you expect in 2025, be sure to consider the items listed under What’s New, earlier. For more details on figuring your AGI, see Expected AGI—Line 1 in chapter 2 of Pub. 505.

If you are self-employed, be sure to take into account the deduction for self-employment tax. Use the 2025 Self-Employment Tax and Deduction Worksheet for Lines 1 and 9 of the Estimated Tax Worksheet to figure the amount to subtract when figuring your expected AGI. This worksheet will also give you the amount to enter on line 9 of your estimated tax worksheet.

Line 7. Credits. See the 2024 Form 1040 or 1040-SR, line 19, and Schedule 3 (Form 1040), lines 1 through 6z, and the related instructions for the types of credits allowed.

Line 9. Self-employment tax. If you and your spouse make joint estimated tax payments and both of you have self-employment income, figure the self-employment tax

for each of you separately. Enter the total on line 9. When estimating your 2025 net earnings from self-employment, be sure to use only 92.35% (0.9235) of your total net profit from self-employment.

Line 10. Other taxes. Use the 2024 Instructions for Form 1040 to determine if you expect to owe, for 2025, any of the taxes that would have been entered on your 2024 Schedule 2 (Form 1040), line 8 through 12, 14 through 17z, and line 19 (see Exception 2, later). On line 10, enter the total of those taxes, subject to the following two exceptions.

Exception 1. Include household employment taxes from Schedule 2 (Form 1040), line 9, on this line only if:

You will have federal income tax withheld from wages, pensions, annuities, gambling winnings, or other income; or

You would be required to make estimated tax payments (to avoid a penalty) even if you didn’t include household employment taxes when figuring your estimated tax.

If you meet either of the above, include the total of your household employment taxes on line 10.

Exception 2. Because the following taxes are not required to be paid until the due date of your income tax (not including extensions), do not include them on line 10.

Uncollected social security and Medicare or RRTA tax on tips or group-term life insurance (Schedule 2, line 13),

Form 1040-ES (2025)

5

2025 Self-Employment Tax and Deduction Worksheet for

Keep for Your Records

Lines 1 and 9 of the Estimated Tax Worksheet

1a. Enter your expected income and profits subject to self-employment tax*

1a.

b.If you will have farm income and also receive social security retirement or disability benefits, enter your expected Conservation Reserve Program payments that will be

 

included on Schedule F (Form 1040) or listed on Schedule K-1 (Form 1065)

b.

 

2.

. . . . . . . . . .Subtract line 1b from line 1a

2.

 

3.

. . . . . . . . . .Multiply line 2 by 92.35% (0.9235)

3.

 

4.

. . . . . . . . . . . . .Multiply line 3 by 2.9% (0.029)

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

5.

Social security tax maximum income

5.

$176,100

6.Enter your expected wages (if subject to social security tax or the 6.2% portion of

 

tier 1 railroad retirement tax)

6.

7.

Subtract line 6 from line 5

7.

 

Note. If line 7 is zero or less, enter -0- on line 9 and skip to line 10.

 

8.

Enter the smaller of line 3 or line 7

8.

9.

Multiply line 8 by 12.4% (0.124)

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

10.

Add lines 4 and 9. Enter the result here and on line 9 of your 2025 Estimated Tax Worksheet

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

11.

Multiply line 10 by 50% (0.50). This is your expected deduction for self-employment tax on

 

 

Schedule 1 (Form 1040), line 15. Subtract this amount when figuring your expected AGI on

11.

 

line 1 of your 2025 Estimated Tax Worksheet

4.

9.

10.

* Your net profit from self-employment is found on Schedule C (Form 1040), line 31; Schedule F (Form 1040), line 34; and Schedule K-1 (Form 1065), box 14, code A.

Recapture of federal mortgage subsidy (Schedule 2, line 17b),

Excise tax on excess golden parachute payments (Schedule 2, line 17k),

Excise tax on insider stock compensation from an expatriated corporation (Schedule 2, line 17m), and

Look-back interest under section 167(g) or 460(b) (Schedule 2, line 17n).

Additional Medicare Tax. For information about the Additional Medicare Tax, see the Instructions for Form 8959.

Net Investment Income Tax (NIIT). For information about the Net Investment Income Tax, see the Instructions for Form 8960.

Line 12b. Prior year's tax. Enter the 2024 tax you figure according to the instructions in Figuring your 2024 tax unless you meet one of the following exceptions.

If the AGI shown on your 2024 return is more than $150,000 ($75,000 if married filing separately for 2025), enter 110% of your 2024 tax as figured next.

Note. If at least two-thirds of your gross income for 2024 was from farming or fishing, this doesn't apply.

If you will file a joint return for 2025 but you didn’t file a joint return for 2024, add the tax shown on your 2024 return to the tax shown on your spouse's 2024 return and enter the total on line 12b.

If you filed a joint return for 2024 but you will not file a joint return for 2025, first figure the tax both you and your spouse would have paid had you filed separate returns for 2024 using the same filing status as for 2025. Then multiply the tax on the joint return by a fraction, the numerator being the tax you would have paid had you filed a separate return, over the total tax you and your spouse would have paid had you filed separate returns. Enter this amount on line 12b.

If you didn’t file a return for 2024 or your 2024 tax year was less than 12 full months, don’t complete line 12b. Instead, enter the amount from line 12a on line 12c.

Figuring your 2024 tax. Use the following instructions to figure your 2024 tax.

The tax shown on your 2024 Form 1040 or 1040-SR is the amount on Form 1040 or 1040-SR, line 24, reduced by:

1.Unreported social security and Medicare tax or RRTA tax from Schedule 2 (Form 1040), lines 5 and 6;

2.Any tax included on Schedule 2 (Form 1040), line 8, on excess contributions to an IRA, Archer MSA, Coverdell education savings account, health savings account, ABLE account, or on excess accumulations in qualified retirement plans;

3.Amounts on Schedule 2 (Form 1040) as listed under Exception 2, earlier; and

4.Any refundable credit amounts on Form 1040 or 1040-SR, lines 27, 28, and 29, and Schedule 3 (Form 1040), lines 9 and 12.

6

Form 1040-ES (2025)

2025 Tax Rate Schedules

Caution. Don’t use these Tax Rate Schedules to figure your 2024 taxes. Use only to figure your 2025 estimated taxes.

Schedule X—Use if your 2025 filing status is

 

Schedule Z—Use if your 2025 filing status is

 

 

Single

 

 

 

 

 

Head of household

 

 

 

 

If line 3

 

The tax is:

 

 

 

If line 3

 

The tax is:

 

 

 

is:

 

 

 

of the

is:

 

 

 

of the

 

But not

 

 

 

 

But not

 

 

 

Over—

 

 

 

amount

Over—

 

 

 

amount

over—

 

 

 

over—

over—

 

 

 

over—

$0

$11,925

$-----------1,192.50

+

10%

$0

$0

$17,000

$-----------1,700.00

+

10%

$0

11,925

48,475

+

12%

11,925

17,000

64,850

+

12%

17,000

48,475

103,350

5,578.50

+

22%

48,475

64,850

103,350

7,442.00

+

22%

64,850

103,350

197,300

17,651.00

+

24%

103,350

103,350

197,300

15,912.00

+

24%

103,350

197,300

250,525

40,199.00

+

32%

197,300

197,300

250,500

38,460.00

+

32%

197,300

250,525

626,350

57,231.00

+

35%

250,525

250,500

626,350

55,484.00

+

35%

250,500

626,350

-----------

188,769.75

+

37%

626,350

626,350

-----------

187,031.50

+

37%

626,350

Schedule Y-1— Use if your 2025 filing status is

 

Schedule Y-2—Use if your 2025 filing status is

 

Married filing jointly or Qualifying surviving spouse

Married filing separately

 

 

 

 

If line 3

 

The tax is:

 

 

 

If line 3

 

The tax is:

 

 

 

is:

 

 

 

 

of the

is:

 

 

 

 

of the

 

But not

 

 

 

 

But not

 

 

 

Over—

 

 

 

amount

Over—

 

 

 

amount

over—

 

 

 

over—

over—

 

 

 

over—

$0

$23,850

$-----------2,385.00

+

10%

$0

$0

$11,925

$1,192.50---------

+

10%

$0

23,850

96,950

+

12%

23,850

11,925

48,475

+

12%

11,925

96,950

206,700

11,157.00

+

22%

96,950

48,475

103,350

5,578.50

+

22%

48,475

206,700

394,600

35,302.00

+

24%

206,700

103,350

197,300

17,651.00

+

24%

103,350

394,600

501,050

80,398.00

+

32%

394,600

197,300

250,525

40,199.00

+

32%

197,300

501,050

751,600

114,462.00

+

35%

501,050

250,525

375,800

57,231.00

+

35%

250,525

751,600

---------

202,154.50

+

37%

751,600

375,800

-----------

101,077.25

+

37%

375,800

2025 Estimated Tax Worksheet for Filers of Form 1040-SS

Keep for Your Records

1.Complete lines 1 through 10 of the 2025 Self-Employment Tax and Deduction Worksheet and enter the amount from

 

line 10

1.

2.

Household employment taxes and the Additional Medicare Tax

2.

3.

Add lines 1 and 2

3.

4.

Bona fide residents of Puerto Rico only, enter the amount of your additional child tax credit (if any)

4.

5.Subtract line 4 from line 3. If less than the sum of $1,000 and household employment taxes, no payment is

 

required

5.

6a.

Multiple line 5 by 90% (66 2/3% for farming and fishing)

6a.

 

 

b.

Enter the tax amount from your 2024 tax return (the amount from Form 1040-SS, line 7 minus the sum of Form

6b.

 

1040-SS, lines 9 through 11b)

c.

Enter the smaller of line 6a or 6b (minus the expected amount of Additional Medicare Tax withholding). This is the

 

 

6c.

 

annual payment you must make

 

 

Caution: Generally, if you do not prepay at least the amount shown on line 6c, you may owe a penalty for not paying enough estimated tax. To avoid a penalty, make sure your estimate on line 1 is as accurate as possible. If you are not sure of the amount of estimated tax, and line 6a is smaller than line 6b, it would be convenient for you to pay an amount of at least the amount shown on line 6b. Even if you pay the required annual payment, you may still owe tax when you file your return. If you prefer, you can pay the amount shown on line 1. For details, see chapter 2 of Pub. 505.

7.Amount of the installments. If the first payment you are required to make is due April 15, 2025, enter ¼ of line 6c (minus any 2024 overpayment that you are applying to this installment) here, and on your estimated tax payment voucher(s) if you are paying by check or money order. (Even when you are not required to make the payment due on April 15, 2025, your economic situation might change in a way that you might need to present a payment voucher and make a payment in the future. See Annualized Income Installment Method in chapter 2 of Pub. 505, for

more information.)

7.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Form 1040-ES (2025)

7

2025 Estimated Tax Worksheet

Keep for Your Records

1

Adjusted gross income you expect in 2025 (see instructions)

2a

Deductions

 

• If you plan to itemize deductions, enter the estimated total of your itemized deductions.

 

• If you don’t plan to itemize deductions, enter your standard deduction.

bIf you can take the qualified business income deduction, enter the estimated amount of the deduction

c Add lines 2a and 2b . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

3 Subtract line 2c from line 1 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

4Tax. Figure your tax on the amount on line 3 by using the 2025 Tax Rate Schedules.

Caution: If you will have qualified dividends or a net capital gain, or expect to exclude or deduct foreign earned income or housing, see Worksheets 2-5 and 2-6 in Pub. 505 to figure the tax . . . . . .

5 Alternative minimum tax from Form 6251 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

6Add lines 4 and 5. Add to this amount any other taxes you expect to include in the total on Form 1040

or 1040-SR, line 16 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

7

Credits (see instructions). Do not include any income tax withholding on this line

8

Subtract line 7 from line 6. If zero or less, enter -0-

9

Self-employment tax (see instructions)

10

Other taxes (see instructions)

11a

Add lines 8 through 10

bEarned income credit, additional child tax credit, fuel tax credit, net premium tax credit, refundable

 

American opportunity credit, and section 1341 credit

c

Total 2025 estimated tax. Subtract line 11b from line 11a. If zero or less, enter -0-

12a

Multiply line 11c by 90% (662/3% for farming and fishing)

 

12a

 

 

 

b

Required annual payment based on prior year’s tax (see instructions) . . .

 

12b

 

cRequired annual payment to avoid a penalty. Enter the smaller of line 12a or 12b . . . . . .

Caution: Generally, if you do not prepay (through income tax withholding and estimated tax payments) at least the amount on line 12c, you may owe a penalty for not paying enough estimated tax. To avoid a penalty, make sure your estimate on line 11c is as accurate as possible. Even if you pay the required annual payment, you may still owe tax when you file your return. If you prefer, you can pay the amount shown on line 11c. For details, see chapter 2 of Pub. 505.

13Income tax withheld and estimated to be withheld during 2025 (including income tax withholding on pensions, annuities, certain deferred income, and Additional Medicare Tax withholding) . . . . .

14a

Subtract line 13 from line 12c

14a

 

 

Is the result zero or less?

 

 

 

Yes. Stop here. You are not required to make estimated tax payments.

 

 

 

No. Go to line 14b.

 

 

b

Subtract line 13 from line 11c

14b

 

 

Is the result less than $1,000?

 

 

Yes. Stop here. You are not required to make estimated tax payments.

No. Go to line 15 to figure your required payment.

15If the first payment you are required to make is due April 15, 2025, enter ¼ of line 14a (minus any 2024 overpayment that you are applying to this installment) here, and on your estimated tax payment

voucher(s) if you are paying by check or money order . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

1

2a

2b

2c

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11a

11b

11c

12c

13

15

Form 1040-ES (2025)

-8-

Record of Estimated Tax Payments (Farming, fishing, and fiscal year taxpayers, see Payment Due Dates.)

Keep for Your Records

Payment number

Payment

 

 

(c) Check or

(d) Amount paid

(e) 2024

(f) Total amount

(a) Amount

(b) Date

money order number, or

due

(do not include

overpayment

paid and credited

due

paid

credit or debit card

date

any convenience fee)

credit applied

(add (d) and (e))

 

 

confirmation number

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

1

4/15/2025

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2

6/16/2025

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3

9/15/2025

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4

1/15/2026*

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total

 

 

 

*You do not have to make this payment if you file your 2025 tax return by February 2, 2026, and pay the entire balance due with your return.

Privacy Act and Paperwork Reduction Act Notice. We ask for this information to carry out the tax laws of the United States. We need it to figure and collect the right amount of tax. Our legal right to ask for this information is Internal Revenue Code section 6654, which requires that you pay your taxes in a specified manner to avoid being penalized. Additionally, sections 6001, 6011, and 6012(a) and their regulations require you to file a return or statement for any tax for which you are liable; section 6109 requires you to provide your identifying number. Failure to provide this information, or providing false or fraudulent information, may subject you to penalties.

You are not required to provide the information requested on a form that is subject to the Paperwork Reduction Act unless the form displays a valid OMB control number. Books or records relating to a form or its instructions must be retained as long as their contents may become material in the administration of any Internal Revenue law. Generally, tax returns and return information are confidential, as stated in Code section 6103.

We may disclose the information to the Department of Justice for civil and criminal litigation and to other federal agencies, as provided by law.

We may disclose it to cities, states, the District of Columbia, and U.S. commonwealths or territories to carry out their tax laws. We may also disclose this information to other countries under a tax treaty, to federal and state agencies to enforce federal nontax criminal laws, or to federal law enforcement and intelligence agencies to combat terrorism.

If you do not file a return, do not give the information asked for, or give fraudulent information, you may be charged penalties and be subject to criminal prosecution.

Please keep this notice with your records. It may help you if we ask you for other information. If you have any questions about the rules for filing and giving information, please call or visit any Internal Revenue Service office.

The average time and expenses required to complete and file this form will vary depending on individual circumstances. For the estimated averages, see the instructions for your income tax return.

If you have suggestions for making this package simpler, we would be happy to hear from you. See the instructions for your income tax return.

-9-

Form 1040-ES (2025)

Need to make a payment?

Save time by paying online. Paying online is convenient and secure.

The IRS offers easy ways to electronically pay your taxes.

Use Your

 

Pay by

Online Account

 

Bank Account

(no fees)

 

(no fees)

 

 

 

Pay by

Card

(processing fees apply)

Go to www.irs.gov/Account to login and make a payment.

Make a tax payment online directly from your checking or savings account.

View your balance, payment plan details and options, digital copies of certain notices, and more.

Use Direct Pay online to make an individual tax payment from your checking or savings account without registration.

Register for the Electronic Federal Tax Payment System (EFTPS) to make one-time or recurring payments from your checking or savings account.

When you e-file with tax software or a tax professional, you can schedule an electronic funds withdrawal (EFW).

Pay online or by phone.

When e-filing pay through tax preparation software.

Processing fees go to a payment processor and limits apply. The IRS does not receive any fees.

Go to www.irs.gov/Payments for more details or to make a payment.

Separate here.

Pay online at www.irs.gov/ etpay

Simple.

Fast.

Secure.

Form

1040-ES

 

 

2025 Estimated Tax

Payment

4

OMB No. 1545-0074

 

Internal Revenue Service

 

 

Voucher

 

 

Department of the Treasury

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

File only if you are making a payment of estimated tax by check or money order. Mail this

Calendar year—Due Jan. 15, 2026

 

 

 

 

 

 

voucher with your check or money order payable to “United States Treasury.” Write your

Amount of estimated tax you are paying

social security number and “2025 Form 1040-ES” on your check or money order. Do not send

by check or

 

 

 

 

cash. Enclose, but do not staple or attach, your payment with this voucher.

money order.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Your first name and middle initial

Your last name

 

 

Your social security number

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

If joint payment, complete for spouse

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

or type

Spouse’s first name and middle initial

Spouse’s last name

 

 

Spouse’s social security number

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Address (number, street, and apt. no.)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Print

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

City, town, or post office. If you have a foreign address, also complete spaces below.

State

 

 

 

ZIP code

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Foreign country name

 

Foreign province/county

 

 

Foreign postal code

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

For Disclosure, Privacy Act, and Paperwork Reduction Act Notice, see instructions.

Form 1040-ES (2025)

-10-

Form Information

Fact Name Details
Purpose The IRS 1040-ES form is used to estimate and pay quarterly taxes for individuals who expect to owe tax of $1,000 or more when filing their annual return.
Eligibility This form is primarily for self-employed individuals, freelancers, and those with significant income not subject to withholding.
Filing Frequency Payments are typically made quarterly, with due dates falling in April, June, September, and January of the following year.
Payment Methods Taxpayers can pay electronically, via check or money order, or through various online payment systems offered by the IRS.
State-Specific Forms Many states have their own estimated tax forms. For example, California uses Form 540-ES, governed by California Revenue and Taxation Code Section 19025.
Calculation of Estimates Taxpayers can use the previous year's tax liability or estimate their current year income to calculate their quarterly payments.
Penalties Failure to pay enough tax throughout the year can result in penalties and interest charges on the unpaid balance.
Record Keeping It's essential to keep records of all payments made and any calculations used to determine estimated tax amounts.
Form Updates The IRS may update the 1040-ES form annually, so it's important to check for the most current version each tax year.

Detailed Guide for Filling Out IRS 1040-ES

Filling out the IRS 1040-ES form is a crucial step for those who need to make estimated tax payments. After completing the form, you will be able to determine your estimated tax liability and submit payments accordingly. This ensures that you stay compliant with federal tax regulations throughout the year.

  1. Gather your financial information, including your expected income, deductions, and credits for the year.
  2. Download the IRS 1040-ES form from the official IRS website or obtain a physical copy.
  3. Fill out your personal information at the top of the form, including your name, address, and Social Security number.
  4. Estimate your total income for the year and enter this figure in the designated section.
  5. Calculate your deductions and credits, and subtract these from your total income to determine your taxable income.
  6. Use the tax tables provided in the form instructions to find your estimated tax based on your taxable income.
  7. Determine any additional taxes that may apply, such as self-employment tax, and add this to your estimated tax total.
  8. Divide your total estimated tax by the number of payment periods (usually four) to find your quarterly payment amount.
  9. Complete the payment voucher section of the form, ensuring all required information is filled out correctly.
  10. Review the entire form for accuracy before signing and dating it.
  11. Mail the completed form along with your payment to the address specified in the instructions.

Obtain Answers on IRS 1040-ES

  1. What is the IRS 1040-ES form?

    The IRS 1040-ES form is used by individuals to calculate and pay estimated taxes on income that is not subject to withholding. This includes income from self-employment, interest, dividends, and rental income. It helps taxpayers ensure they meet their tax obligations throughout the year.

  2. Who needs to file Form 1040-ES?

    Individuals who expect to owe at least $1,000 in tax after subtracting their withholding and refundable credits generally need to file Form 1040-ES. This includes self-employed individuals, freelancers, and those with significant investment income.

  3. How do I calculate my estimated tax?

    To calculate your estimated tax, start by estimating your total income for the year. Then, subtract any deductions and credits you expect to claim. The result is your taxable income. Use the current tax rates to determine your tax liability. The IRS provides a worksheet in the Form 1040-ES instructions to help with this calculation.

  4. When are the estimated tax payments due?

    Estimated tax payments are typically due in four installments throughout the year. The due dates for the payments are:

    • April 15 for the first quarter
    • June 15 for the second quarter
    • September 15 for the third quarter
    • January 15 of the following year for the fourth quarter

    If a due date falls on a weekend or holiday, the payment is due the next business day.

  5. Can I pay my estimated taxes online?

    Yes, you can pay your estimated taxes online using the IRS Direct Pay system or the Electronic Federal Tax Payment System (EFTPS). Both options allow for secure and convenient payments directly from your bank account.

  6. What happens if I don’t pay my estimated taxes?

    If you do not pay enough estimated tax throughout the year, you may face penalties and interest when you file your tax return. The IRS may charge a penalty for underpayment, which is calculated based on the amount owed and the length of time it remains unpaid.

  7. Can I adjust my estimated tax payments?

    Yes, you can adjust your estimated tax payments if your income changes during the year. If you expect to earn more or less than you originally estimated, you can recalculate your payments using the Form 1040-ES worksheet and adjust your future payments accordingly.

  8. Is there a penalty for overpaying estimated taxes?

    No, there is no penalty for overpaying estimated taxes. If you overpay, the IRS will apply the excess amount to your tax liability for the following year or issue you a refund when you file your tax return.

  9. Where can I find Form 1040-ES?

    You can find Form 1040-ES on the IRS website. It is available for download as a PDF. Additionally, many tax preparation software programs include the form and can assist you in completing it accurately.

Common mistakes

Filling out the IRS 1040-ES form can be a daunting task for many individuals. It is essential to ensure accuracy to avoid potential issues later on. One common mistake people make is not estimating their income correctly. Many underestimate their earnings, which can lead to underpayment penalties. It's crucial to take a close look at all sources of income, including freelance work, side gigs, and investments.

Another frequent error is failing to account for deductions and credits. Some taxpayers overlook deductions that could significantly reduce their taxable income. For example, expenses related to self-employment or certain educational costs can be deducted. Taking the time to research available deductions can make a substantial difference in the final tax liability.

Many individuals also forget to include all necessary forms and schedules when submitting their 1040-ES. Incomplete submissions can lead to delays or even penalties. Ensure that all supporting documents are attached and that the form is filled out in its entirety. Double-checking your submission can save a lot of headaches down the road.

Some taxpayers neglect to update their estimated tax payments throughout the year. Life changes, such as a new job or a significant raise, can affect tax obligations. Regularly reviewing and adjusting estimated payments helps avoid surprises come tax season. Staying proactive about these changes is key to maintaining compliance.

Another common mistake is miscalculating the estimated tax payments themselves. It's essential to use the correct rates and formulas to determine how much should be paid. Many people rely on outdated information or simple guesswork, which can lead to incorrect payment amounts. Using the IRS guidelines and tools can help ensure that calculations are accurate.

Additionally, some individuals forget to sign and date their forms. It may seem minor, but an unsigned form can be considered invalid. Always take a moment to review the completed form and ensure all required signatures are in place before submission. This small step can prevent unnecessary complications.

Lastly, many people fail to keep copies of their submitted forms. Keeping records is vital for future reference, especially if questions arise about payments or calculations. Having a personal copy can provide peace of mind and serve as a useful reference during future tax seasons.

Documents used along the form

The IRS 1040-ES form is essential for individuals who need to make estimated tax payments. However, it is often accompanied by other forms and documents that help clarify financial situations, report income, or provide necessary information to the IRS. Below is a list of common forms and documents that are frequently used alongside the 1040-ES.

  • Form 1040: This is the standard individual income tax return form. It summarizes your income, deductions, and credits for the year.
  • Form W-2: Employers use this form to report wages, tips, and other compensation paid to employees. It also shows the taxes withheld from those earnings.
  • Form 1099-MISC: This form reports income received from sources other than wages, such as freelance work or rental income.
  • Form 1099-INT: Banks and financial institutions use this form to report interest income earned on savings accounts and other investments.
  • Schedule C: Self-employed individuals use this form to report income and expenses related to their business activities.
  • Schedule SE: This form calculates self-employment tax for individuals who earn income from self-employment.
  • Form 1040-V: This is a payment voucher that accompanies payments made with your tax return, including estimated payments.
  • Form 4868: This form is used to request an extension of time to file your individual income tax return.
  • Form 8888: This form allows taxpayers to allocate their refund to multiple accounts or purchase U.S. savings bonds.
  • Form 8862: If you previously claimed the Earned Income Tax Credit and were denied, this form is used to reapply for it.

These forms and documents help ensure that taxpayers accurately report their income and comply with IRS requirements. Understanding each one can simplify the tax filing process and minimize potential issues with the IRS.

Similar forms

The IRS 1040-ES form is primarily used for estimating and paying quarterly taxes for individuals who expect to owe tax of $1,000 or more when they file their annual return. It shares similarities with several other tax-related documents. Below is a list of six forms that are comparable to the 1040-ES, along with a brief explanation of how they relate.

  • IRS Form 1040: This is the standard individual income tax return form. While the 1040-ES is for estimating and making payments, the 1040 is for reporting actual income and tax liability for the year.
  • IRS Form 1040-SR: Designed for seniors, this form is similar to the 1040 but features larger print and a simplified layout. Like the 1040-ES, it is used for reporting income, though it is specifically tailored for taxpayers aged 65 and older.
  • IRS Form 1040-NR: This form is for non-resident aliens. It serves a similar purpose as the 1040-ES in that it allows non-residents to report income and calculate tax obligations, although it is focused on a different taxpayer demographic.
  • IRS Form 1040-X: This is an amended tax return form. While it is used to correct previously filed returns, it shares the purpose of ensuring accurate tax reporting, similar to how the 1040-ES aims to prevent underpayment of taxes.
  • IRS Form 4868: This form is used to request an extension for filing the 1040. While it does not involve estimating payments directly, it is related to the process of managing tax obligations and deadlines, much like the 1040-ES.
  • IRS Form 941: This form is used by employers to report income taxes, Social Security tax, and Medicare tax withheld from employee paychecks. It is similar in that it involves periodic tax payments, although it applies to businesses rather than individual taxpayers.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the IRS 1040-ES form, it is essential to approach the task with care and attention to detail. Here is a list of things you should and shouldn't do to ensure a smooth process.

  • Do review your previous year's tax return for accurate information.
  • Do use the correct form for your filing status and income type.
  • Do calculate your estimated tax payments based on your expected income for the year.
  • Do keep a record of all payments made to avoid confusion later.
  • Don't ignore deadlines; submit your payments on time to avoid penalties.
  • Don't underestimate your income, as this may lead to underpayment penalties.
  • Don't forget to sign and date the form before submission.

By following these guidelines, you can help ensure that your experience with the IRS 1040-ES form is efficient and error-free. Taking the time to understand the requirements will benefit you in the long run.

Misconceptions

The IRS 1040-ES form is often misunderstood. Here are seven common misconceptions about this form:

  1. It is only for self-employed individuals.

    While self-employed individuals commonly use the 1040-ES to pay estimated taxes, anyone who expects to owe tax of $1,000 or more when filing their return may need to use this form.

  2. It must be filed quarterly.

    Although the 1040-ES is designed for quarterly estimated tax payments, taxpayers can choose to make payments annually or as needed, as long as they meet the total tax obligation by the end of the year.

  3. Only individuals can use the 1040-ES.

    This form is primarily for individuals, but certain estates and trusts may also use it to pay estimated taxes.

  4. Filing the 1040-ES guarantees a refund.

    Submitting the 1040-ES does not guarantee a refund. It is a method to pay taxes owed, and whether a refund is received depends on the total tax liability for the year.

  5. Payments are based on the previous year's tax liability.

    While many taxpayers use last year's tax as a guide, payments can also be calculated based on the current year's expected income to avoid underpayment penalties.

  6. It is not necessary to keep records of payments.

    Keeping accurate records of payments made on the 1040-ES is crucial. This documentation helps in preparing tax returns and verifying payments made to the IRS.

  7. All taxpayers must file the 1040-ES.

    Not all taxpayers are required to file the 1040-ES. Those who have sufficient withholding from their paychecks or meet specific criteria may not need to make estimated tax payments.

Understanding these misconceptions can help taxpayers navigate their responsibilities more effectively and ensure compliance with tax regulations.

Key takeaways

Filling out and using the IRS 1040-ES form is an important task for many taxpayers, especially those who are self-employed or have other sources of income that do not have taxes withheld. Here are some key takeaways to keep in mind:

  • Understand the Purpose: The 1040-ES form is used to calculate and pay estimated taxes on income that is not subject to withholding. This includes income from self-employment, rental properties, and dividends.
  • Know Your Deadlines: Estimated tax payments are typically due quarterly. Missing a payment can result in penalties, so mark your calendar to avoid any surprises.
  • Calculate Your Payments Accurately: Use the worksheet included with the 1040-ES to estimate your tax liability. This will help ensure you pay the correct amount and avoid underpayment penalties.
  • Keep Records: Maintain copies of your 1040-ES forms and payment confirmations. This documentation is essential for your records and can be helpful if you need to reference past payments.
  • Adjust as Necessary: If your income changes throughout the year, you may need to adjust your estimated payments. Stay proactive to avoid any year-end tax surprises.