How do I pay quarterly estimated taxes as a new business owner?
Last updated September 27, 2026
A simple guide to quarterly estimated taxes, what they cover, and the steps to plan payments without guessing.
Quarterly estimated taxes are advance payments toward the income tax and, for many owners, self-employment tax you may owe on business profit. They are not a separate special tax. If taxes are not being withheld from your business income through payroll, you may need to make estimated payments during the year instead of waiting until tax season. Federal payments are typically around April, June, September, and January, and your state may have its own rules. The exact amount depends on your profit, other income, deductions, filing status, and state.
Steps
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Track profit, not just sales Taxes are usually based on profit: money in minus ordinary and necessary business expenses. Keep your income and expenses updated so you are not guessing from your bank balance.
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Separate tax savings from spending money Move a percentage of each payment into a separate savings account. The right percentage varies, but separating it helps you avoid spending money that may belong to taxes later.
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Check whether federal estimated payments apply If you expect to owe taxes after credits and withholding, estimated payments may be required. A CPA or tax preparer can help you calculate this more accurately.
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Check your state too State income tax, local tax, franchise tax, or business entity taxes may have different payment systems and deadlines.
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Pay through the official tax agency Federal estimated taxes are paid to the IRS. State payments go through your state tax agency. Avoid paying through random search results or unofficial sites.
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Record each payment Save the confirmation number, date, amount, tax year, and whether it was federal or state. Your tax preparer will need this.
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Review after your income changes If your business grows, slows down, or you start a W-2 job, update your estimate. Quarterly taxes are meant to be adjusted as real life changes.
If you are still stuck
Open your Stratify roadmap and review the tax setup steps for your business type. You can also ask the AI coach to help you list which tax accounts to check, what records to gather, and what to ask a CPA before your first estimated payment.