Quarterly estimates: what to check before you pay

Estimated payments should not be a last-minute scramble. With a quick, organized review of your income and expenses, you can pay the right amount on time and avoid penalties.

Start with year-to-date numbers

Pull your income and expenses for the year so far. Clean books make the estimate faster and more accurate.

Compare against last year

Many businesses use the prior year as a reference point. Review whether this year is tracking higher or lower before you decide.

Plan for the next quarter

If revenue is growing, adjusting your estimates early keeps you from facing a large balance due at filing time.

A 30-minute review before each due date is usually enough to pay with confidence.

Sample content for a portfolio site. This is not legal or accounting advice.