What Other Tax Deadlines Should You Be Aware Of?
Written by
Jared Thomas
Published on
January 17, 2024

While most Americans associate April 15 with the deadline for filing their income taxes, other important tax deadlines also fall on this date. Missing them can lead to penalties and interest charges.

Estimated Tax Payments for Self-Employed Workers

If you’re self-employed, a freelancer, or an independent contractor, you must make quarterly estimated tax payments to the IRS. The first payment for 2025 is due on April 15.

  • Estimated payments are required if you expect to owe at least $1,000 in federal taxes for the year
Payment deadlines for 2025:
  • April 15
  • June 17
  • September 16
  • January 15, 2026

Failing to make these payments can result in underpayment penalties and interest.

The Rise of Gig Economy Workers and Tax Obligations

With more people earning money through gig work (Uber, Etsy, freelance services), understanding estimated taxes is critical. Unlike W-2 employees, independent workers don’t have taxes automatically withheld, making quarterly payments essential to avoid IRS penalties.

How to Calculate and Pay Estimated Taxes

  • The IRS suggests paying at least 90% of your current year’s tax liability or 100% of last year’s tax bill to avoid penalties.
  • The “safe harbor” rule increases to 110% for taxpayers with adjusted gross income over $150,000.
  • Payments can be made through IRS Direct Pay, EFTPS, or mailed checks.

Other Important Tax Deadlines on April 15

  • IRA Contributions – The deadline to contribute to a Traditional or Roth IRA for the 2023 tax year is April 15, 2024.
  • HSA & FSA Contributions – You must make any Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Spending Account (FSA) contributions for 2023 by this date.
  • Filing an Extension – If you can’t file your taxes by April 15, you must submit Form 4868 to request an automatic six-month extension.

Conclusion

April 15 isn’t just Tax Day—it’s also the deadline for estimated tax payments, IRA contributions, and extensions. Staying informed about these deadlines can help you avoid unnecessary penalties and optimize your tax savings.

Weekly newsletter
No spam. Just the latest releases and tips, interesting articles, and exclusive interviews in your inbox every week.
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.