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April 6, 2025
Question

How can I change my choice to prepay taxes on a quarterly basis for next year?

  • April 6, 2025
  • 1 reply
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    1 reply

    JohnB5677
    April 6, 2025

    The IRS does not require you to make estimated payments; however, you run the risk of paying a penalty if you don't.

    You can establish your own payments at IRS Payment options

     

    The underpayment penalty will be assessed if any of these apply:

    • "If you don’t pay enough tax through withholding and estimated tax payments, you may have to pay a penalty."
    • "You also may have to pay a penalty if your estimated tax payments are late, even if you are due a refund when you file your tax return."

    To avoid the under payment penalty:

    • The amount you owe is less than $1,000, after subtracting withholding and refundable credits.
    • You paid 90% of the tax that you owed for the current year.
    • You paid 100% of the previous year tax, (110% for higher incomes).
    • If your previous year's adjusted gross income was more than $150,000 you will have to pay in 110% of your previous year's taxes to satisfy the "safe-harbor" requirement.

    "Typically, underpayment penalties are 5% of the underpaid amount, and they're capped at 25%. 

    Underpaid taxes also accrue interest at a rate that the IRS sets annually."

     

    To avoid this situation it is recommended that you adjust your W-4 with your employer or pay estimated taxes.

    Underpayment of Estimated Tax by Individuals Penalty

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