Electronic payment of federal estimates for an individual return in Lacerte

Federal estimates can only be paid with the e-filed 1040 returns. The estimate vouchers must be mailed for paper-filed returns.

Federal estimates can be paid electronically in Lacerte, however, this feature is only available for electronically filed returns, and must be set up before sending the return. This information will automatically be included in the client letter. Your federal estimated tax payments will be directly withdrawn from your bank account according to the estimated tax payment schedule.

For more estimated tax resources, check out our Tax topics page on Estimated Tax payments where you'll find answers to the most commonly asked questions.

Disaster area tax relief available:

Filing deadlines and estimated tax due dates may be extended for taxpayers in parts of Alabama, Alaska, California, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and IRS for taxpayers living abroad. See here for more details.

To set up federal estimates electronically:

1. Go to Screen 3, Miscellaneous Information/Direct Deposit.
2. Select Direct Deposit of Refund/Electronic Payment from the left sections panel.
3. Select the box, Electronic payment of estimated tax.
4. Enter the bank account information in the Financial Institution subsection.

Additional information

• The federal estimate payment information will be sent when you e-file the federal return. The estimate payment information isn't included with the filing of the extension.
• The E-File Estimated Payments Wizard available in the e-file menu is only available for select federal and state returns. For a complete list refer to Using the E-file Estimated Payment Wizard in Lacerte.
• Lacerte has no records if electronic payments of estimated taxes are being withdrawn.
  • To find out or cancel a payment, call the IRS e-file Payment Services at 1-888-353-4537 to inquire about or cancel your payment, but wait 7 to 10 days after your return was accepted before calling.
  • Refer to the IRS Pay Taxes by Electronic Funds Withdrawal under the Cancelation, Errors, and Questions section for more information.