topic How do I break down income by quarter to reduce late withholding payment penalty? in Retirement tax questions

How do I break down income by quarter to reduce late withholding payment penalty?

dmkrisman — Tue, 03 Feb 2026 10:19:59 GMT

Over half of my income was in last month of year. Yet I am being charged a penalty for under withholding. How do I show this?

Re: How do I break down income by quarter to reduce late withholding payment penalty?

VolvoGirl — Mon, 17 Feb 2025 18:40:55 GMT

If you get a penalty on 1040 line 38, you might be able to eliminate it or at least reduce it. You can go to Federal Taxes tab or Personal tab, under Other Tax Situations and select Start by the Underpayment Penalties. You will answer a series of questions that may reduce or eliminate the penalty. Or you can elect to have the IRS figure the penalty for you. It's form 2210.

How to add form 2210 for Underpayment Penalty
https://ttlc.intuit.com/community/tax-payments/help/how-do-i-add-form-2210/00/25703

It's under

Federal or Personal (for Home & Business Desktop)

Other Tax Situations

Additional Tax Payments

Underpayment Penalties - Click the Start or update button

Re: How do I break down income by quarter to reduce late withholding payment penalty?

AmyC — Mon, 17 Feb 2025 18:45:20 GMT

Use the annualized income method. This allows you to report your income by quarter, showing the income was later in the year to help reduce the penalty. The IRS charges penalties if you owe over $1,000. The IRS treats a debt of $5,000 as substantial underpayment with additional penalties and interest.

You may need to withhold more or make estimated payments when your income goes up. A big stock sale, make a payment. Sell a building, make a payment. You can make Payments anytime. If you end up owing more than you can pay, Apply Online for a Payment Plan.