Why does IRS care if I owe $1000 or more in taxes & need to pay estimated taxes for the current tax year? I don’t mind paying a big lump sum when due.

[eyeman03]

Paid 5 K two years ago & no worries.  I look at it as a tax-free 5 K loan from the IRS.  Is this why the IRS caps these "tax-free" loans at 1k?

[fanfare]

IRS doesn't want you to have a big tax bill on April 15th.

So much so that it will impose penalties.

[eyeman03]

Thx for the reply.

I guess the key is to stay under 1K, and then you get a tax-free loan you pay back in full by the following Apr 15.  If >1K, you still get the “loan” but paying back in full + interest.