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What is the difference between federal estimated taxes and Estimator’s or Optimizer's estimated taxes?

Understanding the difference between Estimator and federal estimated taxes.

Updated over a year ago

This article was updated for Tax Year 2023, last edited on January 5th, 2024.

april's Estimator and Optimizer tools use a tax estimation process that helps you forecast what your potential federal tax refund or taxes owed may be for the year based on the information you provide in the moment (such as income and life events). Your actual refund or taxes owed could be higher or lower for various reasons (including any changes to your income or benefits, filing status, family status, federal tax laws, etc). The estimation is not intended as tax advice, so please consult with an expert if you need specific advice for your tax situation.

Federal estimated taxes are payments made on income that was not subject to income tax withholding. The IRS requires that taxes be paid as you earn or receive income. Failure to pay this on time may result in penalties.

For coverage details and other important legal information about Estimator and Optimizer, you can read more here and here.

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This content is provided for informational purposes only and should not be construed as tax, legal, financial, accounting, or other advice. Rules and regulations vary by location and are subject to change, so please consult with an expert if you need advice specific to you.

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