April 15 isn’t just the deadline for filing your tax return—it’s also an important date for estimated tax payments. The first estimated tax payment for the 2026 tax year is due on April 15, 2026, for individuals and most calendar‑year entities.
If estimated taxes aren’t paid on time, the IRS assesses penalties calculated as simple interest. While “simple” may sound mild, interest rates have been rising, making late payments increasingly costly.
For federal purposes, many taxpayers can safely base their first estimated payment on 25% of their prior year’s total tax liability. California, however, takes a different approach. The state “front loads” the first payment, requiring 30% of last year’s tax liability to be paid by the April deadline.
Planning ahead and making timely estimated payments can help you avoid penalties, interest, and unnecessary cash‑flow stress later in the year.
If you need guidance that is tailored specifically to your unique situation, we encourage you to connect directly with Pro Advisor Support. Their experienced team specializes in assisting clergy and church organizations with complex tax, payroll, bookkeeping, and HR matters. Whether you have detailed questions about compliance, deductions, or planning strategies, they can provide expert advice and walk you through the next steps with clarity and confidence.
Clergy Financial Resources
Tax I Payroll I Bookkeeping I HR | Consulting
11214 86th Avenue N.
Maple Grove, MN 55369
Tel: (888) 421.0101
Clergy Financial Resources serves as a resource for clients to help analyze the complexity of clergy tax law, church payroll & HR issues. Our professionals are committed to helping clients stay informed about tax news, developments and trends in various specialty areas.
This article is intended to provide readers with guidance in tax matters. The article does not constitute, and should not be treated as professional advice regarding the use of any particular tax technique. Every effort has been made to assure the accuracy of the information. Clergy Financial Resources and the author do not assume responsibility for any individual’s reliance upon the information provided in the article. Readers should independently verify all information before applying it to a particular fact situation, and should independently determine the impact of any particular tax planning technique. If you are seeking legal advice, you are encouraged to consult an attorney.
For more information or if you need additional assistance, please use the contact information below.
Clergy Financial Resources
11214 86th Avenue N.
Maple Grove, MN 55369
Tel: (888) 421-0101
Fax: (888) 876-5101
Email: clientservices@clergyfinancial.com