Finances · Free forever · US
Quarterly estimated tax calculator
A rough idea of what you'll owe the IRS this year, split into the four payments freelancers are expected to make — with the reasoning shown, because nobody teaches artists this part.
What you expect to make
Your profit for the whole year — your best guess is enough to start.
How you file
Two simple choices that change the numbers a lot.
Rough estimate for the year
Total estimated tax
$19,116.71 USD
About 27.3% of your profit
Each quarterly payment
$4,779.18 USD
Four equal payments
Single · California
Your four due dates
Q1 — due April 15
Covers January – March
Q2 — due June 15
Covers April – May
Q3 — due September 15
Covers June – August
Q4 — due January 15 (next year)
Covers September – December
Where the number comes from
The whole calculation, step by step — so it's an estimate you understand, not one you fear.
The habit that makes this painless: set aside 27% of every payment
The moment an invoice lands, move roughly 27% of it into a separate savings account and pretend it was never yours. When a due date arrives, the money is already there.
Freelance income is lumpy — a great month can feel like a windfall right up until the quarter comes due. Splitting the money on arrival is what turns tax from a crisis into a transfer.
Not sure your income target is right? Check your day rate first — tax is easier to cover when your rate includes it.