Unfortunately I ended up underpaying by just a little less than $1500 in 2025. It’s because my husband and I got married at the end of the year and have decided to file separately. I got about $850 back last year.
I’m wondering if there is a benefit to paying the estimated penalty (I’m using H&R Block software since I’ve used it for the past few years) or if I should just wait for the IRS to bill me?
Underpayment Penalty? Let IRS assess?
byu/mediumhotsauce6 intax
Posted by mediumhotsauce6
3 Comments
Let the IRS bill you. If they come up with a smaller number than you did, pay it. If they come up with a larger number, fill out Form 2210 and pay what you think is right.
Fun fact: I haven’t gotten an underpayment notice in a while, but they used to include a blank copy of Form 2210 with the notice for you to fill out and send back if you disagreed with their number.
Just wait for IRS to assess the penalty. If they don’t, you’re good to go.
If you are, go back to the software and complete Form 2210. If the penalty on the Form is less, file it in response to the notice.
The question must be asked… Why did you file separately? From a strictly financial standpoint that’s rarely the better filing status.