Alabama · Quarterly Payments · Safe Harbor · 2026 IRS Data

Quarterly Tax Calculator 2026 — Alabama

Self-employed workers in Alabama must make quarterly estimated payments to both the IRS and the Alabama tax authority — missing either can result in underpayment penalties. This calculator shows your combined quarterly estimated tax obligations in Alabama and how much to set aside each month.

Also see: Alabama Self-Employed Tax Calculator →

Expected Income This Year

$

Your expected gross revenue for 2026

$

Deductible expenses reduce your taxable income

Your 2026 Quarterly Payments

Q1 (Jan–Mar)

$4,368

Due April 15, 2026

Q2 (Apr–May)

$4,368

Due June 16, 2026

Q3 (Jun–Aug)

$4,368

Due September 15, 2026

Q4 (Sep–Dec)

$4,368

Due January 15, 2027

Total estimated tax$17,473
Effective rate on $75,00023.3%
Set aside per month$1,456

How It's Calculated

Gross income$75,000
Business expenses$10,000
Net SE income$65,000
SE tax (15.3% × 92.35%)$9,184
Federal income tax$5,078
State tax$3,210
Total annual tax$17,473
Per quarter (÷ 4)$4,368

Safe Harbor Rule

To avoid IRS underpayment penalties, pay at least 90% of this year's tax OR 100% of last year's tax liability (110% if last year's AGI exceeded $150,000), whichever is smaller.

90% of this year's tax

$3,931/qtr

Enter 2025 liability above for prior-year safe harbor

How to Pay Quarterly Taxes

Pay online at IRS.gov/DirectPay or via EFTPS (Electronic Federal Tax Payment System). Most states accept payment through their official tax portals. Mail payments with Form 1040-ES.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does my state have quarterly estimated tax payments too?

Most states with an income tax require quarterly estimated payments on self-employment income, similar to federal requirements. Thresholds and due dates vary by state — some states use the same due dates as federal, others differ slightly. Generally, if you owe more than $500–$1,000 in state tax for the year, you'll need to make quarterly state payments as well. Check your state's Department of Revenue website for exact thresholds and due dates.

What is the underpayment penalty rate for 2026?

The IRS underpayment penalty rate for 2026 is the federal short-term rate plus 3 percentage points — typically 7–8% annualized on the underpaid amount. The penalty is calculated quarterly and applied proportionally to how long the underpayment existed. To avoid it entirely, meet the safe harbor: pay 90% of this year's tax or 100% (110% if AGI > $150,000) of last year's total tax liability, in equal quarterly installments.

Alabama Taxes — Frequently Asked Questions

Does Alabama have state income tax in 2026?

Yes. Alabama uses progressive state income tax brackets. On a $70,000 salary (single filer) the state tax comes to $3,460 for 2026, with a marginal state rate of 5% — on top of $6,772 federal income tax and $5,355 FICA.

How much is $70,000 after taxes in Alabama?

A single filer earning $70,000 in Alabama takes home approximately $54,413 per year — about $4,534/month or $2,093 per biweekly paycheck. Total taxes: $15,587 (22.27% effective rate), split between federal income tax ($6,772), FICA ($5,355), and Alabama state tax ($3,460).

How much is $90,000 after taxes in Alabama?

On a $90,000 salary in Alabama, a single filer keeps approximately $67,483 per year ($5,624/month). The overall effective tax rate is 25.02%, of which $4,460 is Alabama state income tax.

What is the Alabama state tax on a $45,000 salary?

Approximately $2,210 for 2026 (single filer). Combined with $3,230 federal income tax and $3,443 FICA, total deductions reach $8,882 and take-home pay is $36,118.

What percentage of my paycheck goes to taxes in Alabama?

Between 19.74% and 25.02% for salaries in the $45,000–$90,000 range (single filer, 2026 rates). The biggest pieces are federal income tax and 7.65% FICA; Alabama state tax adds roughly 4.94% at $70,000. Use the quarterly tax calculator above for your exact numbers.