Freelancer tax guide
How to Pay Estimated Taxes Online
Choose an IRS payment method, apply the payment to the right tax year, and save a confirmation for your records.
Individuals can generally make federal estimated-tax payments through an IRS Online Account, Direct Pay from a bank account, or an approved card provider. Confirm the payment type and tax year before submitting.
Pick a payment channel
IRS Direct Pay and an IRS Online Account can schedule payments from a bank account without a federal processing fee. Card providers generally charge a fee. Current EFTPS users may still use it, but the IRS says individual taxpayers can no longer create new EFTPS accounts.
Apply the payment correctly
Select the estimated-tax payment type associated with your individual return and the proper calendar year. A payment sent to the wrong period may require follow-up to move.
Keep your own ledger
Record date, amount, tax year, payment method, and confirmation number. Your year-end total should reconcile to the estimated payments reported on the return.
Questions & answers
Can I schedule all four payments at once?
Available scheduling varies by method. IRS Direct Pay handles one payment at a time; an IRS Online Account may let you schedule a future payment. Check the current IRS payment page.
Do I mail Form 1040-ES if I pay online?
Generally, the voucher is for mailed payments. Follow the instructions shown by the electronic payment method.
Official sources
Educational information only. Tax rules and filing details change; verify the filing-year instructions or work with a qualified tax professional.
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