Q3 Estimated Taxes Are Due September 15: How to Pay for Free

Who needs to act by September 15

Third-quarter estimated taxes are due September 15. This deadline matters most for people who earn money with no taxes taken out up front.

That includes freelancers, gig workers, small business owners, and people with side income. It can also include folks with income from investments, rent, or self-employment.

If your employer already takes taxes out of your paycheck, you may not owe estimated taxes at all. But if you have income on the side, it is worth checking now while there is still time.

Why paying on time saves you money

The IRS asks people to pay taxes as they earn income during the year. If you owe and do not pay enough on time, you may face an extra charge for underpayment.

Paying by the September 15 deadline helps you avoid that. You do not need to guess perfectly. You just need to make a reasonable payment for what you earned.

Getting ahead now also means less stress next spring when you file your return.

How to pay for free

You do not need to pay a middleman to send your estimated taxes. The IRS lets you pay directly online for free.

You can pay from your bank account at no cost. You can also mail a payment if you prefer, but online is faster and gives you a confirmation.

If you want help preparing your taxes for free, the IRS offers several free filing paths. IRS Free File, Direct File, VITA, and AARP Tax-Aide are all free ways to handle your federal taxes. Which one fits depends on your income and situation.

Any service that charges you a fee to make an IRS payment is a middleman. The official path is always free.

Frequently asked questions

Do I have to pay estimated taxes?

Not everyone does. It mainly applies to people who earn income with no taxes taken out, like freelancers, gig workers, and self-employed folks. If all your pay comes from a job with withholding, you may not owe estimated taxes.

What happens if I miss September 15?

You may face an extra charge for not paying enough on time. Paying as soon as you can helps limit that. It is better to make a payment late than not at all.

Is there really a free way to pay?

Yes. The IRS lets you pay directly from your bank account online at no cost. You never need to pay a service to send money to the IRS.

What if I cannot figure out the exact amount?

You do not need to be perfect. Make a reasonable payment based on what you earned this quarter. Free help is available through VITA and AARP Tax-Aide.