My estyimated tax for 2025 is very high. I expect to earn considerably less in 2025. Can I use the printed form & submit less than the estimate?

[VolvoGirl]

Yes,  they are optional to pay.  They don’t get sent with your return so the IRS won’t be expecting them.   You can change the amount and pay what you want.  You can pay directly on the IRS website https://www.irs.gov/payments

Be sure to pick the right kind of payment and year.....2025  Estimate

If you want to adjust them or print new ones,

You can just type W4 in the search box at the top of your return , click on Find. Then Click on Jump To and it will take you to the estimated tax payments section. Say no to changing your W-4 and the next screen will start the estimated taxes section.

Or Go to….

Federal Taxes or Personal (Deskop H&B)

Other Tax Situations

Other Tax Forms

Form W-4 and Estimated Taxes - Click the Start or Update button

[JohnB5677]

The IRS does not require you to pay any estimated tax; however, if you hall short you may incur a penalty.

• You can make estimated payments in any amount at IRS Payment options

The underpayment penalty will be assessed if any of these apply:

• "If you don’t pay enough tax through withholding and estimated tax payments, you may have to pay a penalty."
• "You also may have to pay a penalty if your estimated tax payments are late, even if you are due a refund when you file your tax return."

To avoid the under payment penalty:

• The amount you owe is less than $1,000, after subtracting withholding and refundable credits.
• You paid 90% of the tax that you owed for the current year.
• You paid 100% of the previous year tax, (110% for higher incomes).
• If your previous year's adjusted gross income was more than $150,000 you will have to pay in 110% of your previous year's taxes to satisfy the "safe-harbor" requirement.

"Typically, underpayment penalties are 5% of the underpaid amount, and they're capped at 25%. 

Underpaid taxes also accrue interest at a rate that the IRS sets annually."

To avoid this situation it is recommended that you adjust your W-4 with your employer or pay estimated taxes.

Underpayment of Estimated Tax by Individuals Penalty

[kerrscott4245]

Thank you. Your answer was concise & helpful. Problem solved.

[kerrscott4245]

Thank you. The additional information about penalties will help me adjust my payments.