Planning Ahead: Avoid Tax Trouble in 2026 With These 3 Moves
If 2025 has been a bit messy—missed payments, IRS letters, inconsistent income—you’re not alone. But the good news? You still have time to course-correct. The decisions you make now, at the end of Q3, will shape how tax season feels next year. Here’s how to finish strong and set up a smoother 2026.
1. Get Caught Up on Your Estimated Tax Payments
Estimated taxes aren’t optional if you’re self-employed or running a small business. Missing them means penalties—even if you plan to “pay later.”
Q3 taxes are due September 16th
Use your net profit (not gross income!) to estimate
If this year is lower than last year, base your payment on actual earnings—not last year’s return
Use EFTPS.gov or IRS Direct Pay for secure, trackable payments
💡 Pro Tip: If you’ve missed earlier quarters, it’s better to pay something now than nothing at all.
2. Schedule a Tax Planning Session
There’s a difference between tax filing and tax strategy. Filing is what you do in April. Planning is what you do now to reduce that bill.
Review your income and expenses YTD
Consider purchases or investments before December 31
Set up a SEP IRA or Solo 401(k) if eligible
Capture deductions that might disappear if not used this year
Even a 30-minute review with a pro could save you thousands come tax time.
3. Clean Up Your Books Before Q4 Hits
Year-end bookkeeping panic is a real thing—and it’s avoidable. If your numbers are a mess, your tax return will be too.
Reconcile accounts for each month so far
Separate personal and business expenses (finally!)
Categorize everything—yes, everything
Use this cleanup to build your Q4 plan: cash flow, hiring, equipment, etc.
If you’ve been putting it off, this is your sign to tackle it before the holiday rush.
Closing Thoughts
Your 2026 tax season doesn’t have to be stressful, last-minute, or full of penalties. A few small actions now can protect your peace and your profit.
Call to Action
Not sure where to start? Book a Tax Planning Check-In or join Numbers from Scratch to get guidance, templates, and support to stay ahead of the IRS—not behind it.
