What is a 1040-ES?

[katherinekilian0]

Where do I enter this on my tax form?

[ThomasM · Accepted solution]

A 1040-ES (which stands for "estimate") is the form used to send in quarterly tax estimates to the IRS.  There is a 1040-ES form for each quarter in a given year (see the 2016 forms at this link https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-prior/f1040es--2016.pdf).

If you've made quarterly payments in 2016, then you'll enter these amounts by clicking on Federal Taxes, then Deductions & Credits, then scroll down to Estimates and Other Taxes Paid, then Estimates. Click Start and you'll see the page for Estimated Taxes where you'll be able to input the quarterly amounts you've paid.

If you don't normally make estimated payments and you notice these 1040-ES forms have been included in your tax file after completing your return, don't panic.  Unless you're self-employed or have significant income from sources (non-W2) where tax is not withheld, then you can shred them since they won't apply to you.  They're printed as a convenience; you're not required to use them.

[Edited 2/25/17 3:10pm]