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SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/biz-form-1040-es

Which form do sole proprietors generally use to figure their estimated tax payments?

Form 1040-ES, Estimated Tax for Individuals.

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  1. Form 1040-ES ✔
  2. Form W-4
  3. Form 1099-NEC

Why: No employer withholds tax from a sole proprietor's profit, so they pay during the year with estimated payments. Form 1040-ES has the worksheet to figure them. A W-4 is for employees, and a 1099-NEC reports payments to contractors.

Huh, didn't know that: The IRS offers electronic payment methods, so estimated tax does not have to be paid by mail.

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References

Answer: Form 1040-ES. No employer withholds tax from a sole proprietor's profit, so they pay during the year with estimated payments. Form 1040-ES has the worksheet to figure them. A W-4 is for employees, and a 1099-NEC reports payments to contractors.

  1. IRS: Estimated taxes www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/estimated-taxes
    Individuals, including sole proprietors, partners, and S corporation shareholders, generally use Form 1040-ES, to figure estimated tax.
    Checked 2026-10-11.

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