When are the 2025 quarterly estimated tax payments due?

Estimated taxes are paid in four installments that don't line up neatly with calendar quarters. The deadlines for the 2025 tax year are roughly April 15, June 16, September 15, and January 15, 2026 (dates shift slightly for weekends and holidays). You pay using Form 1040-ES or the IRS Direct Pay system. Missing a deadline can trigger the underpayment penalty even if you settle the full balance later, because the IRS wants taxes paid as income is earned. If your income is uneven across the year, you can annualize so you pay more in high-earning quarters. A simpler alternative for W-2 earners with side income is to boost paycheck withholding instead, since withholding counts as paid evenly regardless of when it happened. Set calendar reminders so a missed quarter doesn't cost you. Estimate amounts at wealthserene.com/tools/self-employed-hub.