You may have done your best to get all the tax documents…but they just did not all arrive (K-1 or the like!) … maybe the schedule was too busy … no matter, it is ok… an Extension is easy but mandatory in notice to the IRS !
The Extension
Here is the IRS website for filing an extension – Remember if we think we owe, we need to pay an Estimated amount… interest may accrue on unpaid amounts and underpaid…so let’s get it done!
There are two options for payment, 1). the IRS Electronic System, which is all electronic and requires some knowledge of prior returns for identification purposes…. 2). Good ole fashion check – be sure to get it postmarked by 4-15 and use that handy camera to take a proof picture (Electronic is our preference, but either will do!)
When/how/where to make ES Payments
Estimated Tax Payments – This from the IRS ES landing page
When to pay estimated tax
| Payment period | Due date |
|---|---|
| Jan. 1–March 31 | April 15 |
| April 1–May 31 | June 15 |
| June 1–Aug. 31 | Sept. 15 |
| Sept. 1–Dec. 31 | Jan. 15* of the following year. *See January payment in Chapter 2 of Publication 505, Tax Withholding and Estimated Tax |
Hoping the format comes out ok above on your device…but just in case it is messy…. snapshot below
The ES Coupon
So here is the coupon for the Q 1 2026 ES – Estimated tax payment – This is from page 15 of the IRS 1040 pamphlet, which can be found at this IRS Link,.
ES Coupons in your Tax Return
With many questions (Great Questions I may add!) about the stack of ES Coupons in your final Tax Return –
Here is the scoop –
These are mostly autogenerated based on the return you have in your hand
These are suggestions – NOT mandatory – BUT if you had a very normal year and are in an owe mode, you may want to strongly consider completing these autogenerated recommendations
Conversely if your return showed an amount due, something unusual occurred or you made a salary or other withholding adjustment you may be good to go without… reach out with questions !
Pro- tip – This is ANOTHER reason we review tax returns and are an extra set of eyes for you guys!! The many of you who we have found mistakes, made adjustments to correct the above ES payments, corrections and/or confirmed all is ok – We are glad to help and once again “It is our pleasure!” and job for that matter!!!! If you did not share your return with us… it is not too late… we are at Peak 2025 Income Tax review knowledge right now…but we are soon to move towards our 2026/this years planning, so share now!!
Have a Great “Extension and ES Payment” Reminder Day!
John A. Kvale CFA, CFP
AI Content Authenticity: AI created the tax reminder image. All of the following text content has been completed by myself and has not been edited or created by AI. Occasionally we do use AI for images and will note when appropriate.
Founder of J.K. Financial, Inc.
A Dallas Texas based fee only
Financial Planning Total Wealth
Management firm.
