Nexus Determination & ComplianceNexus Determination & ComplianceNexus Determination & Compliance
CPA In New Jersey State

What Are Quarterly Taxes?

Quarterly taxes, also known as estimated tax payments, are periodic payments made throughout the year to cover income tax and, for self-employed individuals, self-employment tax. These payments are necessary because taxes aren't withheld from income sources like freelance work, rental income, or business profits.

Who Needs to Pay Quarterly Taxes?

You are generally required to make quarterly tax payments if: 

  • You expect to owe at least $1,000 in tax after subtracting withholding and refundable credits.
  • You have income not subject to withholding, such as:
    • Self-employment income
    • Interest or dividends
    • Rental income
    • Alimony
    • Capital gains
    • Prizes and awards
    • Income from pass-through entities

If your estimated tax liability exceeds $400 in New Jersey, you must make estimated payments to avoid interest charges. 

When Are Quarterly Taxes Due?

For both federal and New Jersey state taxes, estimated payments are typically due on the following dates:

  • April 15
  • June 15
  • September 15
  • January 15 of the following year 

The payment is due the next business day if a due date falls on a weekend or legal holiday. 

Why Are Quarterly Taxes Important?

Making timely quarterly tax payments helps you:

  • Avoid underpayment penalties and interest charges.
  • Manage cash flow by spreading tax payments throughout the year.
  • Stay compliant with IRS and New Jersey Division of Taxation requirements.

Understanding and adhering to quarterly tax obligations is crucial for financial planning and legal compliance.

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Understanding New Jersey State Estimated Taxes

In New Jersey, you must make estimated tax payments if you anticipate owing more than $400 in income tax for the year after accounting for withholdings and credits.

Payment Deadlines for 2025

For the 2025 tax year, the estimated tax payment deadlines are:

  • April 15, 2025: First installment
  • June 16, 2025: Second installment
  • September 15, 2025: Third installment
  • January 15, 2026: Fourth installment

The payment is due the next business day if a due date falls on a weekend or legal holiday.

How to Make Payments

You can make estimated tax payments in New Jersey through the following methods: 

  • Online: The New Jersey Division of Taxation's online payment system allows you to pay via e-check or credit/debit card.
  • By Mail: Submit a completed Form NJ-1040-ES along with your payment. 

Ensure your Social Security number is included on your check or money order.

Adjusting Payments

If your income, deductions, or exemptions change during the year, you may need to adjust your estimated tax payments accordingly. The NJ-1040-ES instructions provide an Amended Calculation Schedule to help you recalculate your payments. 

Understanding and adhering to New Jersey's estimated tax requirements is essential to avoid penalties and ensure compliance.

Why Work With GTA Accounting Group

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Managing quarterly taxes can be complex, especially with the ever-changing tax laws in New Jersey. At GTA Accounting Group, we offer personalized support to help you navigate these challenges confidently.

Our Commitment to You:

  • Local Expertise
    Our team is well-versed in New Jersey's tax regulations, ensuring that your quarterly tax filings are accurate and compliant.
  • Personalized Service
    We take the time to understand your unique financial situation, providing tailored solutions that align with your goals.
  • Comprehensive Support
    From calculating estimated payments to filing necessary forms, we handle every aspect of your quarterly taxes, allowing you to focus on your business.
  • Transparent Communication
    We keep you informed throughout the process, ensuring you understand each step and feel confident in your tax strategy.
  • Proven Track Record
    Our clients trust us for our reliability and professionalism. We have a history of helping businesses in New Jersey manage their taxes effectively.
  • By choosing GTA Accounting Group, you're partnering with a team that prioritizes your financial well-being and works diligently to support your success.

How GTA Makes It Simple

Managing quarterly taxes can be complex, but GTA Accounting Group simplifies the process for individuals and businesses in New Jersey. Our approach combines personalized service with advanced technology to ensure accuracy and compliance.

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Who Needs to Pay Quarterly Taxes in New Jersey?

If you live or work in New Jersey and receive income not subject to regular tax withholding, you may be required to make estimated tax payments throughout the year. This ensures that you meet your tax obligations and avoid potential penalties.

Who Should Consider Making Quarterly Payments?

You should consider making estimated tax payments if you fall into any of the following categories:

  • Self-Employed Individuals: Freelancers, consultants, and independent contractors who receive income without tax withholding.
  • Small Business Owners: Owners of sole proprietorships, partnerships, or S corporations with pass-through income.
  • Landlords: Individuals earning rental income from properties.
  • Investors: Those with significant income from dividends, interest, or capital gains.
  • Retirees: Individuals receiving pension or retirement income without sufficient tax withholding.
  • Others: Anyone with additional income sources not subject to withholding, such as alimony or specific side jobs.

New Jersey's Threshold for Estimated Tax Payments

In New Jersey, you must make estimated tax payments if you expect to owe more than $400 in income tax for the year after subtracting any withholdings and credits. 

Federal Guidelines

At the federal level, you must make estimated tax payments if you expect to owe at least $1,000 in tax after subtracting withholdings and credits. 

Importance of Timely Payments

Making timely estimated tax payments can result in penalties and interest charges. The IRS and the New Jersey Division of Taxation assess these penalties based on the amount underpaid and the duration of the underpayment. 

Understanding your tax obligations and making timely payments can help avoid unexpected tax bills and penalties.

At GTA Accounting Group, we understand that managing quarterly taxes can be complex, especially for self-employed individuals and small business owners in New Jersey. Our comprehensive services are designed to simplify this process and ensure you remain compliant with both federal and state tax obligations.

Our Services Include

  • Income Forecasting and Tax Estimation
    We analyze your income streams and expenses to forecast your taxable income accurately. This helps determine the appropriate estimated tax payments for each quarter.
  • Preparation of Federal and State Forms
    Our team assists in preparing the necessary forms, including the IRS Form 1040-ES for federal taxes and the NJ-1040-ES for New Jersey state taxes. We ensure that these forms are completed accurately and submitted on time.
  • Automated Reminders for Deadlines
    To help you stay on track, we provide automated reminders ahead of each quarterly tax deadline. This proactive approach minimizes the risk of missed payments and associated penalties.
  • Filing and Payment Support
    We guide you through submitting your estimated tax payments online or by mail. Our support ensures that payments are made correctly and timely.
  • Record Keeping and Documentation
    Maintaining organized records is crucial for tax purposes. We assist in keeping detailed records of your income, expenses, and tax payments, which can be invaluable during audits or financial reviews.
  • Mid-Year Adjustments
    If your income or expenses significantly change during the year, we help recalculate your estimated taxes to reflect these changes, ensuring that your payments remain accurate.
  • Guidance on Safe Harbor Rules
    We provide information on safe harbour provisions, which can protect you from underpayment penalties if certain conditions are met. This includes paying 100% of the previous year's tax liability or 90% of the current year's liability, whichever is less.

By leveraging our expertise, you can confidently manage your quarterly tax obligations, avoid penalties, and focus more on growing your business.

What's Included in Our Quarterly Tax Services

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Common Mistakes People Make with Quarterly Taxes

Managing quarterly taxes can be challenging, especially for New Jersey self-employed and small business owners. Understanding common pitfalls can help you stay compliant and avoid unnecessary penalties.

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Underestimating Income

Many taxpayers miscalculate their projected income, leading to underpayment of estimated taxes. This often results in penalties and interest charges from the IRS and the New Jersey Division of Taxation. It's crucial to regularly review and adjust your income estimates to reflect any changes.

Missing Payment Deadlines

Failing to make quarterly tax payments on time can result in penalties. The IRS and New Jersey have specific due dates for estimated tax payments. Even by a day, missing these deadlines can result in additional charges.

Incorrectly Calculating Payments

Calculating estimated taxes involves considering various factors, including income, deductions, and credits. Errors in these calculations can lead to overpayment or underpayment. Tools like the IRS Form 1040-ES worksheet or consulting with a tax professional can help ensure accuracy.

Not Accounting for State Taxes

While focusing on federal taxes, some taxpayers overlook state tax obligations. In New Jersey, you must make estimated tax payments if you expect to owe more than $400 in income tax for the year after subtracting withholdings and credits. Neglecting state taxes can result in additional penalties.

Mixing Personal and Business Finances

Combining personal and business expenses can complicate tax filings and increase the risk of errors. Maintaining separate accounts for business transactions helps in accurate record-keeping and simplifies the tax preparation process.

By being aware of these common mistakes and taking proactive steps, you can manage your quarterly taxes more effectively and avoid potential issues.

Penalties for Missing or Underpaying Quarterly Taxes

Failing to pay enough estimated taxes throughout the year can lead to penalties and interest charges at both the federal and state levels. Understanding these penalties can help you stay compliant and avoid unexpected costs.

Federal Penalties (IRS)

The IRS imposes penalties for underpayment of estimated taxes if you don't pay enough tax through withholding or estimated payments. The penalty is calculated based on:

  • The amount of the underpayment
  • The period the underpayment was due and unpaid.
  • The interest rate for underpayments, which is determined quarterly

For the second quarter of 2025, the interest rate for underpayments is 7%.

You can avoid the penalty if  

  • You owe less than $1,000 in tax after subtracting withholding and refundable credits.
  • You paid withholding and estimated tax of at least 90% for the current year or 100% of the tax shown on the prior year's return, whichever is less. 
New Jersey State Penalties

You can make estimated tax payments in New Jersey through the following methods: 

  • Online: The New Jersey Division of Taxation's online payment system allows you to pay via e-check or credit/debit card.
  • By Mail: Submit a completed Form NJ-1040-ES along with your payment. 

Ensure your Social Security number is included on your check or money order.

Safe Harbor Rules

To avoid underpayment penalties, you can follow these safe harbour guidelines:

  • Pay at least 90% of your current year's tax liability
  • Pay 100% of your prior year's tax liability (110% if your adjusted gross income exceeds $150,000).

Adhering to these guidelines can minimize the risk of penalties and interest charges.

Paying quarterly taxes doesn’t have to be stressful or confusing. Whether you're a freelancer, small business owner, landlord, or consultant, staying on top of your estimated tax payments is critical to avoiding costly penalties and maintaining your finances.

At GTA Accounting Group, we take the guesswork out of quarterly taxes. With personalized planning, expert guidance, and timely filing, you’ll be confident that your tax obligations are correctly handled—every quarter.

Let’s Take This Off Your Plate

Schedule your consultation today to learn how our quarterly tax services in New Jersey can work for you.

Stay Ahead of Quarterly Tax Deadlines with GTA Accounting Group

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FAQs About Quarterly Taxes in New Jersey

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Who is required to pay quarterly taxes in NJ?

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When are quarterly tax payments due in New Jersey?

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How do I make quarterly payments to the State of New Jersey?
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What happens if I miss a quarterly payment deadline?
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What if my income changes during the year?
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What are safe harbour rules, and how can they help me?
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Do I still have to pay quarterly taxes if I have a regular job?
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Can GTA Accounting handle both federal and NJ quarterly payments?
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