Suppose my total federal tax for the year is $100,000. To avoid the underpayment penalty under the 90% rule, I need to make timely estimated payments of at least $90,000.

    If I make four timely equal payments totaling $90,000 or more, there is no penalty.

    But if I make four timely equal payments totaling only $89,900, I have missed the 90% safe harbor by $100.

    Is the underpayment penalty calculated on:

    1. the full $100,000 tax liability,
    2. the unpaid balance due at filing, which would be $10,100, or
    3. only the $100 shortfall between what I timely paid, $89,900, and the 90% required amount, $90,000?

    I am pretty sure the answer is #3, but I am hoping for confirmation from people who 110% confident, whereas I am only 89.9% confident. (haha)

    Penalty calculation on falling short of 90% of tax liability.
    byu/ArthurDent4200 intax



    Posted by ArthurDent4200

    4 Comments

    1. EstablishmentFew2683 on

      FYI safe harbor says if you prepay 100% of your previous years tax owed by dec 31 you cannot be charged a penalty.

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