Everything You Need To Know About Federal Estimated Tax Payments In 2023
What is Federal Estimated Tax Payment?
Estimated taxes are payments you make throughout the year to cover your income tax liability. Generally, you are required to make estimated tax payments if you are self-employed or if you receive income, such as dividends, that is not subject to withholding. By making estimated tax payments throughout the year, you can avoid paying a large amount of tax when filing your return. If you fail to make estimated payments on time, you may be subject to estimated tax penalties.
When Are Federal Estimated Tax Payments Due?
Estimated taxes are due quarterly on the 15th day of the fourth, sixth, ninth and twelfth months of the calendar year. For example, for calendar year 2023, estimated taxes are due on April 15th, June 15th, September 15th, and January 15th of the following year. By paying your estimated taxes quarterly, you can avoid a large tax bill when you file your taxes.
How to Calculate Estimated Tax Payments?
Calculating your estimated tax payments depends on your estimated income for the year. Generally, you will estimate your total income for the year, then subtract any adjustments, deductions and credits that you are entitled to. The remaining amount is your estimated tax liability for the year. You should then divide your estimated tax liability by four and make estimated tax payments quarterly.
How to Make Estimated Tax Payments?
You can make estimated tax payments electronically through the Electronic Federal Tax Payment System (EFTPS). You can also make estimated tax payments by mailing a check or money order to the IRS. If you choose to mail your payment, include the payment voucher and make sure to include your Social Security Number or Employer Identification Number (EIN) to ensure your payment is properly credited. Be sure to make your payment by the due date to avoid any penalties or interest.
Penalties for Late Payment of Estimated Taxes
If you fail to make your estimated tax payments on time, you may be subject to a penalty. The penalty is equal to the amount of the unpaid taxes multiplied by the failure to pay penalty rate. This rate is equal to the federal short-term rate plus 3%. Additionally, interest will accrue on the unpaid taxes from the date the payment was due until the date the payment is made.
Tips to Avoid Estimated Tax Penalties
The best way to avoid estimated tax penalties is to make your estimated tax payments on time. Additionally, you can adjust your withholding to cover your estimated tax liability. You can do this by filing a new Form W-4 with your employer. You can also make estimated tax payments throughout the year to cover any additional taxes you may owe. Finally, if you are close to the due date of your estimated tax payment, you can make a payment online with a credit or debit card. This will ensure your payment is received on time and you will avoid any penalties or interest.
Conclusion
Estimated taxes are payments you make throughout the year to cover your income tax liability. Generally, you are required to make estimated tax payments if you are self-employed or if you receive income, such as dividends, that is not subject to withholding. The best way to avoid estimated tax penalties is to make your estimated tax payments on time. Additionally, you can adjust your withholding to cover your estimated tax liability. By making estimated tax payments throughout the year, you can avoid paying a large amount of tax when filing your return.