What is Form 1040-ES?
Form 1040-ES is used to calculate and pay quarterly estimated taxes on income that isn't subject to withholding — freelance pay, business profit, investment and rental income.
1040-ES is how the self-employed replace paycheck withholding. You estimate the year's tax, divide by four, and pay in April, June, September, and January. The quarters aren't even three-month blocks — the periods are lopsided, which is why the dates feel odd.
Who files it
Self-employed people, investors and anyone who expects to owe $1,000+ beyond their withholding.
When it's due
Form 1040-ES is generally due Apr 15, Jun 15, Sep 15, Jan 15. Deadlines can move for weekends and holidays, so confirm the exact date for the current year on IRS.gov.
Key lines and parts
Here's what you'll actually fill in on Form 1040-ES:
- Estimated tax worksheet
- Four payment vouchers
- Safe-harbor calculation (90% of this year / 100–110% of last year)
How to file
Estimate your year's tax, divide into four payments, and pay online or by voucher on each quarterly due date to avoid an underpayment penalty.