Step-by-Step Guide

Form 941 Guide 2026: Employer's Quarterly Federal Tax Return PDF & Rules

Complete overview of IRS Form 941 for small business owners and payroll managers. Learn how to calculate quarterly employer FICA match, report withholdings, and avoid penalties.

Last reviewed: July 2026

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What Is IRS Form 941?

IRS Form 941 (Employer's Quarterly Federal Tax Return) is the mandatory quarterly report that employers file to calculate and pay federal payroll tax obligations.

Quarterly Filing Schedule for Form 941

QuarterCovered MonthsFiling Deadline
Q1 (First Quarter)January 1 – March 31April 30
Q2 (Second Quarter)April 1 – June 30July 31
Q3 (Third Quarter)July 1 – September 30October 31
Q4 (Fourth Quarter)October 1 – December 31January 31

What Is Reported on Form 941?

  • Total wages paid to employees during the quarter.
  • Federal income tax withheld from employee paychecks.
  • Employee and employer share of Social Security tax (6.2% + 6.2% = 12.4%).
  • Employee and employer share of Medicare tax (1.45% + 1.45% = 2.9%).
Payroll Tax Tip: Ensure your employee paystub records match your Form 941 totals. Calculate withholdings with our Free Paystub Generator or generate W-9 Forms Online.