This article is for information only and is not tax advice.
This article explains how to answer the question "Did you make any estimated tax payments to the state tax office during 2026 which you paid yourself and not through your employer?" in Sprintax Returns. It explains what estimated tax payments are and which payments to include.
What are state estimated tax payments?
Estimated tax is the method you use to pay tax on income that has no tax withheld. This income includes self-employment earnings, interest, dividends, rent, alimony, capital gains, and prizes and awards. If no one withholds tax from this income, you pay the tax to the state tax office yourself during the year.
Which payments does this question ask about?
The question asks about payments that meet all of the following conditions:
You paid the money to the state tax office.
You paid the money yourself, and not through your employer.
You made the payment during 2026.
You made the payment as an estimated tax payment for tax year 2026.
Which payments do not count?
The following payments are not estimated tax payments for this question:
State tax that your employer withheld from your pay.
A balance due that you paid on your state tax return for the previous year.
A payment you made for a previous tax year, such as the fourth installment for 2025.
How do I answer the question?
The following table shows which answer to select.
| Your situation | Your answer |
|---|---|
| You made at least one payment that meets all four conditions | Yes |
| Your only state payments were employer withholding or a balance due from a previous year | No |
| You made no payments to the state tax office yourself during 2026 | No |
How do I find the amount I paid?
Check your payment confirmations, your online account with the state tax office, or your bank statements. Add up all the estimated tax payments you made for tax year 2026.
When are state estimated tax payments due?
Each state sets its own due dates for estimated tax payments. State due dates can differ from the federal due dates. Contact your state tax office to confirm the dates for your state.