Third-Quarter Estimated Taxes Are Due September 15: Pay Free With IRS Direct Pay

Your Q3 payment is due September 15

If you make money that does not have taxes taken out automatically, you may owe estimated taxes four times a year. The third-quarter payment is due September 15.

This affects many people: freelancers, gig workers, small business owners, people with side income, and folks who earn from rent, interest, or investments.

You do not need to panic. The point is simple: know the date, know how to pay, and use the free official option so no middleman takes a cut.

Pay for free with IRS Direct Pay

The IRS lets you pay estimated taxes directly from your checking or savings account at no cost. This tool is called IRS Direct Pay.

There is no fee to use it and no paid service needed. You go straight to the official IRS website, enter your bank details, and submit your payment.

Be careful with sites that charge a fee to file or pay your taxes. The government's own tools are free. You never have to pay a third party to send money to the IRS.

Why the deadline matters

Estimated taxes are a pay-as-you-go system. When you pay on time each quarter, you avoid owing a large amount all at once in April.

Paying late or skipping a quarter can lead to a penalty. Meeting the September 15 date helps you stay on track and keeps your money working for you the rest of the year.

The IRS has said it continues normal operations during the current lapse in appropriations, using funding from 2022 legislation. That means the payment tools and deadlines still apply.

Frequently asked questions

Who has to pay estimated taxes?

Generally people who earn income without tax withheld, such as self-employed workers, gig workers, and those with rental or investment income. Check the IRS site to see if it applies to you.

Is IRS Direct Pay really free?

Yes. Paying directly from your bank account through IRS Direct Pay has no fee. You never have to pay a third party to send money to the IRS.

What if I miss the September 15 deadline?

Paying late can lead to a penalty. Pay as soon as you can to reduce it, and try to stay on schedule for future quarters.

Can OpenFinancial pay my taxes for me?

No. We are not a bank or a government agency and cannot pay or speed anything up. We point you to the free official IRS tools so you can do it yourself.