The IRS in a news release announced the release of a new online tax withholding estimator, replacing the previous withholding calculator.[1]  The new calculator, found at https://apps.irs.gov/app/tax-withholding-estimator, is designed to be both simpler to use and mobile friendly (that is, easier to use on smart phones).

The IRS has revised the relief from the underpayment of estimated tax penalty for 2018 returns it first provided in Notice 2019-11, now granting relief to taxpayer that paid in at least 80% of the total tax actually due for 2018, up from 85%.  Notice 2019-25 also provides information on how taxpayers who may have already filed and paid the penalty may obtain relief.

Individual farmers and fishermen are subject to special rules under IRC §6654(i)(1)(A) & (B) that exempt them from an underpayment penalty under §6654 if they make a single estimated tax payment in the amount due by January 15 of the year following the year the taxes are due.  However, under IRC §6654(i)(1)(D) these individuals get a second chance if they miss that January 15 date for their one estimate.  They are still not subject to an underpayment penalty if they file their return by March 1 of the year following the year in question and pay the resulting tax.

With the problems arising from the erroneous Forms 1095-As issued by the Department of Health and Human Services that was announced on February 20, the IRS advised taxpayers to hold off on filing returns until corrected forms were issued.  However, certain qualifying farmers and fisherman can qualify for relief from the general requirement to pay estimated taxes quarterly, being able to pay the entire balance due with their return without a penalty so long as it is filed on or before March 1 of the following year.