Freelancing gives you the freedom to set your own schedule, choose your projects, and work from anywhere. It’s no surprise that more and more people are embracing self-employment. But with that freedom comes a major responsibility: managing your own taxes.
Regular employees have their taxes automatically deducted from each paycheck, but it's not the same for freelancers. As a freelancer, you have to put aside money and pay taxes on your own. On top of that, freelancers often have to pay taxes four times a year—not just once in April. These are called quarterly estimated tax payments, and missing or underpaying them can lead to penalties and a lot of unnecessary stress.
But if you’re new to gig work or just learning about quarterly taxes, don’t worry. We’re breaking it all down in a simple, no-stress guide to teach you how to pay quarterly taxes as a freelancer so you can stay compliant without feeling overwhelmed. Let’s get started!
What Are Quarterly Estimated Tax Payments?
As explained, freelancers are responsible for paying their own taxes. This covers income tax and self-employment tax throughout the year.
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) requires you to make quarterly estimated tax payments if you expect to owe at least $1,000 in taxes for the year after subtracting any tax credits and withholdings. These payments cover:
- Income tax (federal and state, if applicable)
- Self-employment tax (Social Security and Medicare)
But take note that some states also have their own quarterly tax requirements, so it’s important to stay updated or reach out to your state’s tax office. Don’t worry, we’ll also cover that below!
Who Needs to Pay Estimated Taxes?
Freelancers, gig workers, and self-employed individuals are required to pay quarterly estimated taxes if they:
- Work as an independent contractor
- Run a business as a sole proprietor
- Are a member of a partnership or LLC receiving guaranteed payments
- Earn money from freelance gigs, side hustles, or self-employment
If you’re making money on your own and don’t have an employer withholding taxes for you, there’s a good chance you’ll need to pay estimated taxes every quarter.
What Taxes Do Freelancers Have to Pay?
Freelancers and self-employed individuals pay the same taxes as employees, but with one big difference: you’re responsible for both the employee and employer share of Social Security and Medicare taxes. Here’s a breakdown:
The self-employment tax rate is 15.3%, and this includes:
- 12.4% Social Security tax (also called the Old-Age, Survivors, and Disability Insurance (OASDI) tax)
- 2.9% Medicare tax or hospital insurance, which applies to all net earnings
If your net self-employment income goes beyond $176,100, the 12.4% Social Security tax no longer applies, but you continue paying the 2.9% Medicare tax on all earnings. Also, high earners, or those making more than $200,000 as a single filer or $250,000 as a married couple filing jointly, must also pay an extra 0.9% Medicare tax on income exceeding those thresholds.
When it comes to taxes, there are two main types you’ll need to think about: federal taxes and state taxes.
- Federal Taxes
This is the tax that goes to the U.S. government. The amount you pay depends on how much you earn, so if you make more, your tax rate could be higher. The IRS collects this one. Here’s a table of the 2025 income tax bracket to make it easier for you:
| Tax Rate | Single Filers | Married and Filing Jointly | Head of Households |
| 10% | $0 to $11,925 | $0 to $23,850 | $0 to $17,000 |
| 12% | $11,925 to $48,475 | $23,850 to $96,950 | $17,000 to $64,850 |
| 22% | $48,475 to $103,350 | $96,950 to $206,700 | $64,850 to $103,350 |
| 24% | $103,350 to $197,300 | $206,700 to $394,600 | $103,350 to $197,300 |
| 32% | $197,300 to $250,525 | $394,600 to $501,050 | $197,300 to $250,500 |
| 35% | $250,525 to $626,350 | $501,050 to $751,600 | $250,500 to $626,350 |
| 37% | $626,350 or more | $751,600 or more | $626,350 or more |
- State Taxes
On top of federal taxes, each state has its own rules about how much you owe in state taxes. Some states don’t charge income tax at all, while others have their own rates. So, it’s important to check the tax mandates in your state, which we’ll also be covering below!
When Are Quarterly Taxes Due?
Estimated tax payments are due four times a year, but they don’t follow standard calendar quarters. Instead, the deadlines are January, April, June, and September.
Here’s the 2025 schedule to help you plan accordingly:
| Estimated Income Earned Duration | Tax Payment Due Date |
| January 1 to March 31, 2025 | April 15, 2025 |
| April 1 to May 31, 2025 | June 16, 2025 |
| June 1 to August 31, 2025 | September 15, 2025 |
| September 1 to December 31, 2025 | January 15, 2026 |
When it comes to state income taxes, it’s always a good idea to check your state government’s website for the most up-to-date info on filing deadlines. If you miss one for all tax due dates, you might face penalties or interest, which no one wants! To stay on top of things, it’s helpful to set reminders and keep track of your payments so you never miss a beat.
Steps to Calculate Your Quarterly Taxes as a Freelancer
Figuring out your taxes as a freelancer can feel overwhelming, but once you break it down, it's really just a step-by-step process.
Taxes as a freelancer don’t have to be scary! Here’s how to estimate what you owe and avoid any surprises and last-minute panic when tax time rolls around.
1. Estimate Your Annual Income
If you've been freelancing for a while, you can look at last year’s income to get a ballpark figure. But if you’re new to freelancing, you’ll have to make an educated guess based on your workload, rates, and client payments.
Bonus Tip: If your income fluctuates, start with a conservative estimate—it's always better to set aside too much rather than too little.
2. Subtract Your Business Expenses
One of the biggest perks of being self-employed is that you only pay taxes on your net income, not your total earnings. That means you can (and should!) deduct eligible business expenses like:
- Home office costs (a portion of your rent, utilities, or mortgage if you work from home)
- Software and tools (design programs, invoicing software, or any work-related subscriptions)
- Business Travel (airfare, bus, train, car expenses, hotel or motel costs, meals, and more)
- Charitable Acts (charitable donations and volunteer work under your business’s name)
- Marketing and advertising (social media ads, newspaper ads, billboards, promotional events, etc)
- Memberships (civic or public service organizations, boards of trade, chambers of commerce, medical associations, and more
3. Determine Your Tax Rate
Freelancers pay two main types of taxes:
Self-Employment Tax (15.3%)
This covers Social Security and Medicare. In 2025, the first $176,100 of earnings is subject to the 12.4% Social Security tax, while the 2.9% Medicare tax applies to all net income.
Income Tax
This depends on your total taxable income, which IRS tax bracket you fall into, and the tax rate in the state you live in if you’re required to pay it.
Example: If your taxable income (after deductions) is $70,000, you’ll calculate:
- Self-employment tax: $70,000 × 15.3% = $10,710
- Income tax: Based on IRS brackets and the state you live in, you’ll owe a percentage based on your taxable income range.
4. Divide by Four
Now that you have a rough idea of your total tax bill for the year, divide it into four equal payments to know how much you need per quarter.
Example:
If you estimate owing $12,000 in total taxes, your quarterly payments would be:
- April 15 – $3,000
- June 16 – $3,000
- September 15 – $3,000
- January 15 (next year) – $3,000
5. Adjust Each Quarter if Needed
Freelance income can be unpredictable. Some months might be booming, while others are slow. Luckily, the IRS allows you to adjust your payments so you don’t have to overpay when your income dips.
- If you made more money than expected in a quarter, increase your next payment.
- If you made less, you can lower your estimated payment.
As long as you pay at least 90% of your total tax bill throughout the year, you won’t be penalized. So if you’re unsure, it’s always better to set aside a little extra to stay safe.
How Freelancers Can Pay Their Estimated Quarterly Taxes
Since freelancers don’t have an employer withholding taxes from their paychecks, this can sometimes lead to missed payments or confusion on where to pay. Fortunately, there are multiple ways to do so.
1. Pay Online (Fastest & Easiest)
The IRS offers multiple online payment options that allow you to pay securely from your bank account, debit/credit card, or digital wallet. These are the most convenient methods:
IRS Direct Pay (Best for Bank Transfers)
- Lets you pay directly from your bank account without fees.
- Each payment provides a confirmation number, which you can use to change or cancel your payment.
- Allows scheduled payments of up to a year in advance, making it easier to stay on top of quarterly deadlines.
- You can pay through IRS Direct Pay.
Debit/Credit Card/Digital Wallet Payments (Fast, but Processing Fees Apply)
- Accepts Visa, Mastercard, Discover, American Express, Pulse, NYCE, Accel, AFFN, Interlink, Cirrus, STAR, Jeanie, Shazam, and Maestro for cards.
- Accepts PayPal for digital wallets.
- Accepts PayPal, Click to Pay, and Venmo for cash.
- Fees are based on the payment processor, and this can range from 1.85% to 2.89%.
Electronic Federal Tax Payment System (EFTPS) (Best for Frequent Payers)
- The EFTPS is a free service that lets freelancers schedule estimated tax payments in advance.
- Requires enrollment (can take up to five business days to complete).
- Allows you to make tax payments wherever you are or anytime you're available.
- Best for freelancers who want a structured system for making tax deposits.
Pay by Mail (Traditional Option)
If you prefer paper checks or money orders, you can send through mail your estimated tax payment to the IRS using Form 1040-ES or Estimated Tax for Individuals.
Steps to Pay by Mail:
- Download and fill out Form 1040-ES, which can be found on the official IRS website.
- Make your check or money order payable to “United States Treasury.”
- Include the required information: your name and address, daytime phone number, SSN, tax year, and related tax form or notice number.
- Mail it to the appropriate IRS address for your state (found on the IRS website).
Pay Through Your IRS Account
For freelancers who like to stay on top of everything, like tracking and managing tax payments, setting up an IRS online account is a great option.
Benefits of an IRS Account:
- View your payment history to see what you’ve already paid.
- Schedule future payments in advance.
- Set up a payment plan if you owe more than expected.
- See how much you owe and a breakdown by tax year.
Other Payment Methods
The IRS also offers additional payment options, including:
- Same-Day Wire Transfer
You can wire money directly from your bank, but fees may apply.
- Cash Payments
The IRS partners with select retail locations to allow cash payments of up to $1,000 per day. However, to avoid penalties and interest, you need to make the payment at least seven days in advance.
- Electronic Funds Withdrawal (EFW)
You can opt to have your estimated tax payment withdrawn directly from your bank account when e-filing your tax return using commercial software, a paid preparer, or IRS Free File to e-file.
How to Handle Your State’s Estimated Taxes
Taxes can be tricky, especially since every state has its own rules. Some states don’t even have personal income tax, while others require estimated payments if you’re likely to owe more than a certain amount—sometimes as low as $100! If you’re a freelancer or small business owner, staying on top of these payments is key to avoiding penalties.
Your state income tax is based on where you live and not where you work, so make sure to check your resident state’s specific rules. Below, we break down what you need to know about estimated tax payments in each state.
Alabama
If you expect to owe more than $500 in state taxes, Alabama requires you to make estimated payments. On the other hand, if your estimated payments total $750 or more, the state requires you to pay electronically through the My Alabama Taxes portal. You can use a debit card or get pre-approved by the Alabama Department of Revenue (ALDOR) to pay via ACH Credit.
Alaska
Good news! Alaska doesn’t have a state income tax, which means you don’t have to worry about making estimated payments. That said, don’t forget about your federal estimated tax payments if you’re self-employed!
Arizona
Arizona requires estimated tax payments if:
- The previous and current years’ gross income reaches more than $75,000 each for single filers.
- The previous and current years’ gross income reaches more than $150,000 each for married couples filing jointly.
- The gross income of the head of the household in previous and current years has reached more than $75,000 each.
To stay in the clear, your payments should cover 90% of your expected tax bill for the year or 100% of last year’s total tax due—whichever is lower. Meanwhile, the due dates are scheduled for April 15, June 17, September 16, 2025, and January 15, 2026. You can pay online through Arizona’s payment portal or mail in your payment using a check or money order.
Arkansas
In Arkansas, you’re required to make estimated tax payments if you expect to owe more than $1,000 in state taxes for the year. If that applies to you, you’ll need to file a Declaration of Estimated Tax (Voucher 1) with the Department of Finance and Administration by the due date.
To avoid penalties, you must pay at least 90% of your estimated tax bill in equal quarterly installments. If you underpay, you may be charged a 10% per year penalty. Payments can be made online via ATAP Arkansas, or you can mail a check or money order to:
Department of Finance and Administration
Income Tax Section
P.O. Box 9941
Little Rock, AR 72203-9941
California
If you’ll owe at least $500 or $250 if married/RDP filing separately in state taxes, California requires estimated tax payments. This typically applies to single filers earning around $30,000 or more per year.
California’s due dates are slightly different from federal deadlines:
- April 15, 2025 – Pay 30% of your estimated tax
- June 16, 2025 – Pay 40%
- September 15, 2025 – Pay 0% or no required payment to lighten the burden
- January 15, 2025 – Pay the remaining 30%
You can make your payments online using a bank transfer for free or with a credit card for a small fee.
If you prefer mailing a check or money order, send it to:
Franchise Tax Board
PO Box 942867
Sacramento, CA 94267-0008
Colorado
If you expect to owe at least $1,000 in net taxes, Colorado requires estimated payments.
However, you only need to pay the smaller of:
- 70% of your actual tax liability
- 100% of your prior year’s total tax (if you earned less than $150,000)
- 110% of last year’s tax liability, but this only applies if last year was a full 12-month year, and you filed a Colorado tax return.
- If most of your income (at least 2/3) comes from farming or fishing, you’ll only need to pay 50% of your actual tax bill.
You can make payments through the Colorado Department of Revenue’s payment portal, sign up for Electronic Funds Transfer (EFT), or mail a check or money order to:
Colorado Department of Revenue
Denver, CO 80261-0008
Connecticut
If you expect to owe at least $1,000 after withholdings and credits, Connecticut requires quarterly estimated tax payments. The due dates are April 15, June 15, September 15, and January 15 of the following year. If one or more of these dates falls on a legal holiday or weekend, it will be moved to the next working day. Then, payments can be made online, including by credit card, and should be submitted with Form CT-1040ES.
You generally need to pay 25% of your total taxes with each quarterly installment. But if your income isn't spread evenly throughout the year, like if you earn more later on, you might want to use the annualized income installment method. This lets you adjust your payments based on when you earned the most. So, if you made less in one quarter, you can pay less, and if you earned more in another, you can pay more. It helps you avoid overpaying when your income is low.
Delaware
In Delaware, if your tax liability exceeds $800, you’re required to make estimated tax payments. Due dates are April 15, June 15, September 15, 2025, and January 15, 2026. If you miss a payment or underpay, you’ll be charged a 1.5% penalty per month. Planning to pay by credit card? Keep in mind that the maximum payment amount is $10,000.
Florida
Florida doesn’t have a personal income tax, which means freelancers, S corps, LLCs, partnerships, and sole proprietors don’t need to make estimated tax payments. However, you should still keep up with your federal tax obligations if you’re self-employed.
Georgia
If you receive income during the year, you’re expected to pay estimated taxes in Georgia. One unique feature? You have the option to pay your entire tax bill upfront with your first payment in April. If you do, you won’t need to make the other three payments. But if you decide to do quarterly payments, take note that you have to pay on these dates: April 15th, June 15th, September 15th, and the following January 15th.
Payments can be made through Georgia’s Tax Center (GTC) online portal, by mail, or even in person (appointment required). Missing a payment? Expect a 9% penalty per year on the unpaid amount.
Hawaii
Hawaii requires estimated tax payments if you expect to owe income tax that is more than $500 but less the credits. Payments are due on April 20, June 20, September 20, and January 20 of the following year.
You can pay online using a domestic bank account, credit card, or debit card, or send through mail a check or money order along with a payment voucher from Form N-200V to the Hawaii Department of Taxation, Attn: Payment Section, P.O. Box 1530, Honolulu, Hawaii 96806-1530.
Idaho
Unlike most states, Idaho doesn’t require individuals to make estimated tax payments. However, if you’d like to get ahead of your tax bill, you can make voluntary payments before the due date.
Payments can be made in person at any of Idaho's tax offices, online via credit card, debit card, or e-check, or through ACH payments. If you need to estimate your taxes, Idaho provides Form 51, which also includes a payment voucher.
Illinois
If you expect to owe more than $1,000 in Illinois state income tax, you’ll need to make estimated tax payments. Not sure how much that will be? Form IL-1040-ES can help you figure it out.
Payments are due April 15, June 16, September 15, and January 15 of the following year. You can pay online through MyTax Illinois using a checking or savings account or opt for a credit card payment (just keep in mind that a small processing fee applies). One exception: if you’re 65 or older and living in a nursing home, you’re off the hook for estimated tax payments.
Indiana
Indiana has a flat tax rate of 3% and requires estimated tax payments if your total tax bill is expected to be $1,000 or more for the year. Payments are split into four installments, due April 15, June 15, September 15, and January 15 of the following year. You can make payments via INTIME.
Iowa
If you’re in Iowa and expect to owe more than $200 in state income taxes, you’ll need to plan for estimated tax payments. These are due April 30th, June 30th, September 30th, and January 31st. In case the dates fall on a holiday or weekend, the due date will be moved to the next business day. To make things easier, Iowa lets freelancers pay their taxes through the GovConnectIowa website.
Kansas
Kansas residents anticipating a tax of $500 or more need to make quarterly estimated tax payments. Not sure how much you owe? The Kansas Department of Revenue offers an online Income Tax Calculator to help you out. Payments are due April 15th, June 15th, September 15th, and January 15th, and if you’re paying by credit card, just know that the state’s payment processor will add a small convenience fee.
Kentucky
In Kentucky, if you expect to owe more than $500 in state income taxes, you’ll need to make estimated payments throughout the year. These are due on April 15th, June 15th, September 15th, and January 15th of the next year. If you miss a payment, Kentucky charges interest based on the current state rate as outlined in KRS 131.183, and it's 10% for 2025. You can pay online via the Kentucky Department of Revenue’s portal or refer to Form 740-ES for more instructions. Keep in mind that debit card payments come with a 1.5% transaction fee.
Louisiana
If you’re in Louisiana and expect to owe more than $1,000 or $2,000 for joint filers in state income taxes, the Louisiana Department of Revenue requires you to pay estimated taxes.
You have three options to choose from when paying: electronically via the Louisiana File Online, credit card using Official Payments, and through mail. If you choose to pay through mail, make sure to use the Louisiana Estimated Tax Declaration Voucher For Individuals, Form IT-540ES. Then, check payments should be made to the Department of Revenue.
Payments are due April 15th, June 15th, September 15th, and January 15th.
Maine
Maine requires estimated payments if your tax liability is expected to be $1,000 or more. The due dates follow the federal schedule: April 15th, June 16th, September 15th, and January 15th of the next year.
You can make payments online using Maine EZ Pay, or send a check/money order along with Form 1040ES-ME to the Maine Revenue Services office, at the address:
Maine Revenue Services
P.O. Box 9101
Augusta, ME 04332-9101
Maryland
Maryland taxpayers who anticipate owing more than $500 must make estimated payments. To calculate what you owe, you can use the Maryland estimated tax calculator. Payments can be made online through the Comptroller of Maryland’s portal—but be aware, credit card payments come with a 2.45% processing fee. If you prefer to mail a check, send it with Form PV to:
Comptroller of Maryland
Payment Processing
PO Box 8888
Annapolis, MD 21401-8888
Massachusetts
If you’re in Massachusetts and expect to owe at least $400 in state taxes, you’ll need to pay estimated taxes. To avoid penalties, you must pay at least 80% of your annual income tax liability throughout the year. Payments are due April 15th, June 16th, September 15th, and January 15th of next year and can be made online via the MassTaxConnect portal or by mail.
Michigan
Michigan requires estimated tax payments if you anticipate owing more than $500 in state income tax. Since Michigan has a flat 4.25% tax rate, that means freelancers making around $12,000 or more will need to plan for estimated payments.
Payments should be made on or before April 15, June 16, September 15, 2025, and January 15, 2026, and can be made online through Michigan’s e-Payments system or by mail with a Michigan Estimated Tax Voucher (Form MI-1040ES) to the Michigan Department of Treasury P.O. Box 30774 Lansing, MI 48909.
Minnesota
In Minnesota, estimated tax payments kick in when you expect to owe at least $500 in state taxes. Payments follow the standard April 15th, June 15th, September 15th, and January 15th schedule, but if you prefer, you can make a one-time payment by April 15th instead.
If you need help figuring out your estimated taxes, use Form M1 to help you calculate what you owe. As for methods of payments, you can pay online at Minnesota’s online services using a credit card or bank account, or through mail with a check or money order.
Mississippi
Mississippi requires estimated tax payments if your total tax liability is expected to exceed $200. Payments can be made online through the Mississippi Taxpayer Access Point (TAP) or by mailing a check/money order with Form 80-106. If you’d rather pay by credit card, keep in mind that there’s a processing fee on top of the tax payment. TAP accepts Visa, MasterCard, Discover, and American Express.
Missouri
If you expect to owe just $100 or more, you’re required to make quarterly payments in the state of Missouri. The deadlines are April 15th, June 15th, September 15th, and January 15th of the following year.
Payments can be made online via bank draft for just $0.50, or by credit/debit card (but keep in mind a 2.15% fee applies for payments over $100). If you’re mailing a payment, use Form MO-1040ES and send your check/money order to:
Missouri Department of Revenue
P.O. Box 555
Jefferson City, MO 65105-0555
Montana
If you expect to owe more than $500 in state income tax, Montana requires you to make estimated tax payments throughout the year. These payments are due on April 15th, June 15th, September 15th, and January 15th of the following year unless the date falls on a weekend or a state holiday—then the next business day applies. You can submit payments online through Montana’s TransAction Portal or mail a check along with the appropriate voucher.
Nebraska
If you live in Nebraska or earn income there and expect to owe $500 or more in taxes after applying for any exemptions or credits and after your tax withholding, you’ll need to make quarterly estimated income tax payments.
Payments are due in four equal installments on April 15th, June 15th, September 15th, and January 15th of the following year. If you can pay in one go, you can do so within the first installment due date. Then, you can make payments through the Nebraska Department of Revenue’s TransAction Portal or by mailing a check with a completed payment voucher.
Nevada
Good news for Nevada residents—there’s no personal income tax in the state, which means freelancers and business owners don’t have to worry about making estimated tax payments at the state level. However, federal estimated tax payments may still apply.
New Hampshire
Great news for freelancers in New Hampshire! Since the state doesn’t tax earned wages, most of you won’t need to worry about making estimated tax payments. That’s one less thing on your plate!
New Jersey
If you expect to owe more than $400 in New Jersey state income taxes, you must make estimated tax payments. The due dates are April 15th, June 16th, September 15th, and January 16th of the following year. Payments can be submitted online through the New Jersey Division of Taxation payment portal or by mailing a check with a Declaration of Estimated Tax Voucher (Form NJ-1040-ES).
New Mexico
In New Mexico, estimated tax payments are required if your anticipated state tax liability is $500 or more. The state follows the standard quarterly schedule: April 15th, June 15th, September 15th, and January 15th of the following year. But if the due date lands on a weekend or holiday, it’s moved to the next business day. Payments can be made through the Taxpayer Access Point (TAP) system for free, or by mailing a check with a completed Form PIT-ES.
New York
New York requires estimated tax payments if you expect to owe more than $300 in state income taxes. Payments are due on April 15, 2025, June 16, 2025, September 15, 2025, and January 15, 2026. You can pay online by setting up an account with the New York State Department of Taxation and Finance website or mail a check along with the Estimated Tax Payment Voucher for Individuals (Form IT-2105).
North Carolina
If your estimated state tax liability is $1,000 or more, North Carolina requires you to make quarterly estimated tax payments. Take note that the due dates follow the standard schedule: April 15th, June 15th, September 15th, and January 15th of the following year.
As for payments, mail-in payments must include the North Carolina Individual Estimated Income Tax (Form NC-40), or you can pay online through the North Carolina Department of Revenue website.
North Dakota
If you expect to owe $1,000 or more in North Dakota state taxes, you’ll need to make estimated tax payments throughout the year. These should be settled within four installments, and the due dates are: April 15, 2025, June 15, 2025, September 15, 2025, and January 15, 2026. To figure out how much you owe, use Form ND-1ES to help you. When it’s time to pay, you can either mail a check to the Office of State Tax Commissioner, PO Box 5622 Bismarck, ND 58506-5622, or make things easy by paying online through the North Dakota Taxpayer Access Point.
Ohio
Ohio requires estimated tax payments if you expect to owe more than $500 in state income taxes. The due dates are April 15, June 16, September 15, and January 18 of the following year. You can send a check by mail along with Ohio IT 1040ES and make it payable to “Ohio Treasurer of State.”, or if you’d rather skip the hassle, pay online via the Department’s OH|TAX eServices.
Oklahoma
You’ll need to make quarterly estimated tax payments if you think you’ll owe more than $500 after accounting for any taxes already withheld. Also, your withheld taxes should be less than either:
- 70% of what you expect to owe this year, or
- The amount of tax you owed last year (for the full 12 months).
If you fail to pay at least 90% of the tax liability, the remaining unpaid amount will get a 5% penalty. So, make sure to pay attention to the quarterly due dates, which are April 15, 2025, June 15, 2025, September 15, 2025, and January 15, 2026. Payments can be made the old-fashioned way—by mailing Form OW-8-ES with a check or money order payable to Oklahoma Tax Commission PO Box 269027 Oklahoma City, OK 73126-9027. Or, you can pay online using the Oklahoma Tax Commission’s payment portal.
Oregon
If you live in Oregon and expect to owe $1,000 or more in state income tax, you’ll need to make estimated payments. To pay by mail, include Form OR-40-V with your check and make sure it’s payable to the Oregon Department of Revenue. If online payments are more your speed, you can use the Oregon Department of Revenue’s e-Pay system. Remember that the deadlines for the payments are April 15th, June 16th, September 15th, and January 15th of the next year.
Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania requires estimated tax payments if you expect more than $9,500 in taxable income that isn’t subject to withholdings. The state has a flat rate of 3.07%. The quarterly payments are due on these dates: April 15, June 15, and September 15, 2025, and January 15, 2026. You can pay through myPATH if you prefer online payment.
H3 Rhode Island
If you’re self-employed in Rhode Island and expect to owe $250 or more, you’ll need to prepare your payments for estimated quarterly taxes. These payments are due on April 15, 2025, June 15, 2025, September 15, 2025, and January 15th, 2026. You can pay online through the Rhode Island Tax Portal or mail Form RI-1040ES along with your payment to the RI Division of Taxation, One Capitol Hill, Providence, RI 02908.
South Carolina
If you’re a freelancer and expect to owe just $100 or more in tax liability, you’ll need to make quarterly payments on April 15, 2025, June 16, 2025, September 15, 2025, and January 15, 2026.
To pay, use the MyDORWAY portal or mail a check with Form SC1040ES to the South Carolina Department of Revenue address, which is:
SCDOR
IIT Voucher
PO Box 100123
Columbia, SC 29202
South Dakota
Freelancers in South Dakota get a break—there’s no state income tax! That means you only have to focus on your federal estimated tax payments.
Tennessee
Since the state doesn’t tax individual wages, you likely won’t need to worry about making estimated state tax payments. However, don’t forget that you’ll still need to keep track of your federal taxes—they’ll still apply!
Texas
If you’re a freelancer in Texas, you’re in luck—there’s no state income tax. Your only concern is making sure you handle your federal estimated tax payments.
Utah
Utah does have a state income tax, but it doesn’t require quarterly estimated payments. Instead, you’ll need to pay your full tax bill by April 15, 2025. If you’d rather not deal with a big payment all at once, you can make prepayments throughout the year using Utah’s Taxpayer Access Point website.
Vermont
If self-employed and living in Vermont, you’ll need to make quarterly estimated payments. The state requires payments that equal 90% of your estimated tax liability for the year or 100% of your previous year’s tax bill.
You can pay online through the myVTax website by credit card with a nonrefundable 3% fee, and ACH debit, or check. Meanwhile, due dates follow this schedule for 2025: April 15, June 16, September 15, and January 15, 2026.
Virginia
If you expect to owe more than $150 in state taxes, Virginia wants you to make estimated payments throughout the year. You can pay via an individual online services account, but you’ll need to create an account if you haven’t yet. Other options are through ACH credit to send payments straight from your bank account and the 760ES eForm which doesn’t require a login and password, but you need to make sure the details are correct.
Also, Virginia has a few extra rules—if any single payment is over $1,500 or your total tax bill exceeds $6,000, you’re required to pay electronically. Otherwise, you can still send a check or money order to:
Virginia Department of Taxation
P.O. Box 1478
Richmond, VA 23218-1478
For Virginia, the due dates are May 1, June 15, September 15, and January 15 of the following year.
H3 Washington
good news if you’re in Washington—there’s no state income tax! So, you can focus on getting your federal tax payments done on time without worrying about state taxes. Just a heads up, though: Washington does have a 7% tax on long-term capital gains if you make over $270,000 as of 2024. Keep an eye on that if you’re making big investments!
West Virginia
West Virginia requires estimated tax payments if you expect to owe more than $600 without any state tax withheld from your income. You can use the Estimated Tax Worksheet to help you estimate your quarterly dues for the year, which are typically due April 15, June 15, September 15, and January 15 of the following year. If the deadline falls on a weekend or holiday, your payment is due on the next business day.
To pay your quarterly dues, you can go through the MyTaxes Website and remit payments via ACH Debit. You can also pay using your credit card for convenience and flexibility, but there will be an extra 2.5% fee for every transaction, with a minimum charge of $1.00.
Wisconsin
In Wisconsin, if you anticipate a net tax of $500 or more, you’ll need to make quarterly payments on April 15, 2025, June 16, 2025, September 15, 2025, and January 15, 2026. You can pay online through Quick Pay or My Tax Account or fill out the interactive Form 1-ES Voucher. You can also request vouchers by mail from the Wisconsin Department of Revenue.
Wyoming
If you’re a freelancer or independent contractor in Wyoming, you’re off the hook for state income tax—because there isn’t one! Just be sure to stay on top of your federal estimated tax payments, and you’re good to go.
Why Understanding These Taxes Matters
Many new freelancers underestimate their tax obligations, leading to unexpected tax bills and penalties. So, if you understand the process and start to plan ahead, you can:
- Set aside the right amount of money for quarterly tax payments
- Avoid IRS penalties for underpayment
- Avoid penalties from the state
- Take advantage of deductions to lower the tax amount you need to pay
How Much Money Should You Set Aside?
A good rule of thumb is to set aside 25-30% of your income for taxes. This ensures you’ll have enough to cover:
- Federal & state income taxes
- Self-employment taxes
- Any additional Medicare tax (if applicable)
To stay organized, consider opening a separate savings account just for taxes. But sometimes emergencies come our way, and having a financial backup plan is a must. You can rely on Giggle Finance's cash advance to help you cover expenses during tax season.
How Giggle Finance Can Help Freelancers During Tax Season
Quarterly tax payments can feel like a major wallet drain, and when you're juggling client work, bills, and everyday expenses, coming up with that lump sum can be stressful. This is where Giggle Finance steps in to help. Think of it as your financial safety net, giving you quick and safe access to cash when you need it most: no complicated process, no stress, and no waiting weeks for approval.
Why Giggle Finance?
- Fast funding
Need cash now? You got it. With Giggle Finance, you can get funds in minutes, helping you stay on top of tax payments (or anything else that comes up).
- Flexible repayment
You can choose a repayment plan that fits your current financial situation.
- No credit requirements
Forget the credit score drama. Your approval is based on your income, making it easier to get the funds you need, no matter where you stand.
- No collateral needed
You don’t have to put up your car, house, or anything else. It’s simple, straightforward funding with zero risks to your assets.
- Easy application process
No mountains of paperwork. Just a quick online application and you’re good to go!
Taxes don’t have to throw your finances off track. With Giggle Finance, you can keep your business running smoothly, cover your tax bill with ease, and focus on what you do best—growing your freelance career!
Stay Ahead of Tax Season
Freelancing gives you the freedom to work on your own terms, but it also means taking charge of your taxes. Making quarterly estimated tax payments keeps you in good standing with the IRS, helps you avoid unexpected tax bills, and makes tax season way less stressful. With a little planning—like tracking expenses, setting aside a portion of your income, and using the right payment methods—you’ll stay ahead of the game and keep your finances running smoothly.
If tax payments are putting a strain on your cash flow, Giggle Finance is here to help. Apply today and take control of your finances—without the stress!
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do I File My Annual Return?
At the end of the year, freelancers file Form 1040 along with:
- Schedule C
Reports your business income and deductions.
- Schedule SE
Calculates your self-employment tax.
Can I Pay Estimated Taxes at Any Time?
Yes! While the IRS sets quarterly deadlines, you can make payments throughout the year to stay ahead.
What Happens If I Don't Pay My Taxes?
Skipping your taxes should not be seen only as a “whoops” moment, it can actually lead to some costly penalties and headaches down the line.
The IRS doesn’t forget about unpaid taxes. So, if you don’t file on time, pay what you owe, or report your income correctly, you could get hit with late fees, accuracy penalties, lose any potential refunds, or even a failure-to-file penalty that grows each month. And if you ignore it for too long, the IRS may start taking collection actions like garnishing your wages or putting a lien on your property.
What Are the Next Steps If You Can’t Pay Your Taxes?
In case you fall behind or miss a due date, don’t panic—just get back on track as soon as possible. The IRS allows payment plans if you can’t pay everything at once, and sometimes they even reduce penalties if you have a valid reason or acted in good faith. The key is to stay ahead of it, make your quarterly payments, and reach out for help if needed.
If you don’t have enough funds to pay your estimated taxes, you still have options to avoid penalties and interest:
- Set Up a Payment Plan
You can apply for a monthly installment plan through the IRS. Fees vary depending on the type of plan.
- Offer in Compromise
If qualified, the IRS may let you settle your tax bill for less than what you owe.
- Apply for a Short-Term Extension
If you need a little extra time (60-120 days), you may qualify for a short-term payment arrangement without extra fees.
Need extra cash to cover your tax bill? Apply now and take control of your finances!
Disclaimer: Giggle Finance provides Revenue-Based Financing programs for business purposes only. Any mention of any loan product(s), consumer product(s), or other forms of financing is solely for marketing and educational content purposes and to help distinguish Giggle Finance’s product from other comparable financing options available in the market.