parts of a cover letter worksheet

Parts of a Cover Letter: A Detailed Breakdown of 6 Must-Have Sections

3 takeaways

• Learn each part of a cover letter and proper cover letter structure
• Discover how to correctly write each section of your cover letter 
• The best method for generating personalized cover letters in seconds with the Teal AI Resume Builder

When you’re job searching, writing a cover letter can be one of the most discouraging tasks on the list. After all, you’ve already bookmarked the job you want, researched the company, and tailored the perfect resume to match the job description. 

And now, you need to find the time (and energy) to fit all that information into a single-page cover letter.

But by knowing all the parts of a cover letter, along with how to write them, you’ll have a massive head start in the application process. 

What are the parts of a cover letter?

Before you get started creating your cover letter sections, it's important to know the main parts of a professional cover letter. Here they are in order:

• Salutation (or greeting)
• Opening paragraph
• Closing paragraph

Struggling to land interviews with your current resume and cover letter? Get started with Teal’s AI Resume Builder today.

Just like there are resume sections , cover letters have sections, too.  So, first things first: should a cover letter have a header? Absolutely. 

More than just a list of ways to reach you, the header of your cover letter is your first branding opportunity. It should mirror the header of your resume to frame your application as a polished and cohesive package. 

This symmetry isn't just visually appealing; it shows a deliberate and meticulous approach to your job application.

But what should be on a cover letter header?

The key elements of a cover letter header include your:

• Email address
• LinkedIn URL (Optional)
• Phone number

Here’s an example: 

Consider adding a link to your professional online profile, like LinkedIn, especially if you’re applying for a remote job. 

Note: Even if you’re sending an email cover letter , you should attach your letter as a PDF. First, it’s just easier to format. Second, it helps the hiring manager print or share this document with other decision-makers. 

Following the date, you’ll want to add the:

• Name of the hiring manager 
• The company you’re applying to 

Here’s what this looks like: 

2. Salutation

When you’re on the hunt for a new job, first impressions matter. This is what makes the cover letter salutation so important.

This is where writing a personalized cover letter begins and where you demonstrate your interest and effort in connecting with the company on a human level. Directly addressing the hiring manager is highly recommended when you know their name. It signals respect, shows that you've done your homework, and positions you as a candidate who values personal engagement.

Why not just start your cover letter as “To whom it may concern”? 

Because in today's job market, where a lot of applications flood an inbox, a personalized greeting helps you stand out. It sets a tone of attentiveness and immediately tells the hiring manager that you pay attention to detail. 

Even this little gesture can transform a generic cover letter from a one-size-fits-all document into a tailored conversation starter that resonates with the person responsible for filling the role.

How to find the hiring manager's name

Finding the hiring manager’s name may seem difficult, but it’s often simpler than you think. 

Here are some strategies to uncover this key piece of information:

• LinkedIn : The professional network is your first port of call. Search for the company and sift through employee listings, focusing on those with titles like “Hiring Manager,” “Recruitment Officer,” or specific department heads if you’re applying for a specialized position.
• Company website : Sometimes, the information is hidden in plain sight on the company’s ‘Team’ or ‘About Us’ page. Larger companies might list their staff, job titles, and contact information.
• Calling in : A direct approach can be the most effective. Call the company’s front desk or HR department. Be polite, introduce yourself, and explain that you wish to address your cover letter appropriately. Most will be happy to help.
• Networking outreach : Rely on your network. Ask colleagues or mentors if they know who the hiring manager might be for the position you're eyeing. A mutual connection can often provide you with the name you need.
• Social media scan : Companies often post about their team and new hires on platforms like LinkedIn, Twitter, or Instagram. A quick search might yield the right name.

If you can’t find the hiring manager's name despite your best efforts, opt for a polite and general salutation like “Dear hiring manager” or “Dear hiring team” over the impersonal “To whom it may concern.” 

This retains a level of personalization and respect for the team's collaborative hiring effort. It also sets you apart from the many others who simply wrote: “to whom it may concern.”

Write the elements of a cover letter with Teal's AI

Before you start writing the main parts of your cover letter, consider using Teal instead.

Teal’s cover letter generator pulls from the information you added to a specific resume (also extracting the main keywords and details from the job posting you’re applying to) to align your content. Then, in just a click, you’ll have a great cover letter written before your eyes.

3. Opening paragraph

The opening paragraph of your cover letter is your chance to captivate the reader's interest and set the stage for your narrative. 

When it comes to your cover letter format , this section should include a succinct introduction of who you are, a brief mention of the position you’re applying for, and a compelling reason why the role aligns perfectly with your skills and career aspirations. 

How to grab your reader’s attention in the opening paragraph

To make your entrance memorable, the opening paragraph must do more than introduce – it must intrigue. Here’s how to ensure it does that:

• Start with a bang : Lead with a strong statement or a striking fact about your career achievements. Alternatively, a concise, bold expression of your enthusiasm for the company can be just as effective.
• Show, don't tell : Use a mini anecdote or a powerful example from your experience that reflects your capabilities and mirrors the values or needs of the company.
• Tailor your tone : Match the tone of your writing to the culture of the company. A startup might appreciate a more casual and innovative opener, while a traditional firm might respect a formal and straightforward approach.
• Add some flair : Add a touch of your personality without overshadowing your professionalism. Make sure it’s a blend that conveys your unique professional identity.
• Research results : Mention something recent about the company that impressed you, showing you’re up-to-date and genuinely interested in what they do.
• Give the why and the what : Clearly articulate why you’re excited about the role and what you bring to the table – this is your unique value proposition.

Example of cover letter content for an opening paragraph

“Imagine a marketing strategy so engaging that it doesn't just capture attention but creates a movement. That's been the hallmark of my approach as a Marketing Manager for the past decade, where I've increased brand engagement by an average of 65% year-over-year. Inspired by [Company Name]'s recent groundbreaking campaign on sustainability—a subject close to my heart since I was just a kid—I am eager to bring my expertise in crafting compelling narratives to the role of Head of Marketing.”

You can find more cover letter samples in these marketing manager cover letter examples .

What makes this a strong opening:

• Engages with storytelling: The opening verb is “Imagine,” which is much more engaging than something more traditional, like “My name is…”
• Quantifiable achievements: It includes a specific, measurable achievement (increasing brand engagement by 65% year-over-year), which adds credibility to the applicant’s claims and showcases a track record of success.
• Personal connection: There’s a personal touch with the mention of a lifelong passion for sustainability, making the applicant’s interest in the company feel genuine and deeply rooted.
• Alignment with company values: The reference to the company’s campaign on sustainability suggests that the applicant has done their research and shares the company’s values, implying a natural cultural fit.
• Focus on contribution: By stating a desire to bring expertise in crafting compelling narratives, the applicant immediately addresses how they can contribute to the company’s success rather than just what they wish to gain from the position.

If you can get all of those qualities to shine through in your cover letter, you’ll be more likely to get the reader over to the body of your cover letter. 

Your cover letter body is the meat of your message. It's where you dive into your professional journey, aligning your skills and experiences with the needs of the job at hand. 

This part should be structured in a clear and compelling manner, usually composed of one to three paragraphs, each serving a distinct purpose. 

The first paragraph should connect your past successes to the potential future contributions you'll make to the company. Subsequent paragraphs , like the second or third paragraph , can be used to go further into your relevant skills, experiences, and achievements while also reflecting your knowledge of the company’s goals and challenges.

How to showcase relevant skills and experiences

Here’s how to write a cover letter body that resonates with hiring managers:

• Customize and contextualize : Tailor each example of your experience to mirror the job description. It’s about relevance—show the reader why and how your background prepares you for the specific role.
• Quantify your impact : Use numbers and metrics to give weight to your achievements. Whether it’s increasing sales by a certain percentage or reducing costs through innovative solutions, numbers speak louder than words .
• Problem, action, result (PAR) method : For each skill or experience you share, present the problem you encountered, the action you took, and the result of your efforts. This method illustrates your thought process and problem-solving skills.
• Align with the company's vision : Show that you’ve done your homework by relating your experience to the company's current projects or goals. This demonstrates not just alignment but also initiative and forward-thinking.
• Storytelling with substance : Craft your experiences into a narrative that’s engaging. Your goal is to lead the reader on a journey that showcases growth, impact, and relevance to the role.
• Be concise, be clear : Avoid jargon and overly complex language. The body of your cover letter should be easy to read and understand, ensuring that your points are made without confusion.

Example of what should be in a cover letter body

During my tenure with XYZ Corp, a pioneer in eco-friendly packaging, I spearheaded a transition that faced significant initial resistance both internally and from our customer base. The challenge was formidable: to reframe the public's perception of sustainable packaging from a costly alternative to a savvy, consumer-driven choice. My strategy was to launch an educational campaign that highlighted not just the environmental impact but also the long-term economic benefits. This initiative not only garnered a 120% increase in consumer engagement but also positioned XYZ Corp as a thought leader in the market. In my most recent project, I led a cross-functional team to address a 15% slump in market share due to increased competition. By instituting a thorough competitor analysis and customer feedback loop, we identified key areas where our messaging fell flat. I orchestrated a brand revitalization campaign focused on our core strengths, infused with customer success stories. The result was a 25% market share rebound within the first quarter post-campaign. In each role, I've aligned my actions not only with the company's immediate goals but with a visionary outlook. For instance, anticipating the rise of AI in marketing, I initiated a successful pilot program at XYZ Corp that utilized machine learning to personalize customer interactions, leading to a 30% uptick in customer retention rates.

But remember, not every cover letter will focus on the same information. You’ll need to craft your cover letter according to the specific job you’re applying to. 

While this level of personalization may seem tedious, it’s absolutely necessary. 

5. Closing paragraph

One of the last main parts of a professional cover letter , the closing paragraph, isn’t just a summary but a strategic push to get you into the interview room. This part should reiterate your interest in the position, succinctly summarize why you’re the right fit, and express your enthusiasm about the potential to contribute to the company. 

It's also the place to include a call to action, such as expressing your desire to discuss your application in more detail in a personal interview.

How to end the cover letter on a strong note

• Reaffirm your value : Concisely restate how your skills and experiences align with the job and can benefit the company.
• Personal touch : Express genuine enthusiasm and confidence in your ability to perform the role. Let them feel your eagerness and readiness to take on the challenges it presents.
• Call to action : Encourage the hiring manager to take the next step. You can say you look forward to the opportunity to discuss how you can contribute to their team or that you're eager to provide further details on how you can help achieve their goals.

Closing paragraph example in a cover letter

I am excited to contribute to [Company Name]'s innovative marketing efforts. My skill set aligns seamlessly with the objectives of the Head of Marketing position. I am eager to apply my expertise in strategic planning and digital engagement to drive impactful campaigns that resonate with your brand's vision, and I look forward to discussing how my experience and insights can support your company's success. Thank you for considering my application, and I am hopeful for the opportunity to discuss collaboration in person.

If you're looking for more inspiration, check out this comprehensive database of 1300+ cover letter examples .

6. Sign-off

A professional sign-off sets the tone for how your cover letter is received. It's the equivalent of the final handshake after a successful meeting—it should convey respect and formality. 

Here's how you can ensure your sign-off strengthens your application:

• Choose the right closing : "Sincerely," "Best regards," and "Kind regards" are safe and professional options. If the company culture is more casual, "Best" or "Warm regards" may be suitable.
• Include your full name : Your sign-off should always include your full name to ensure clarity and formality. If you've established a personal connection with the hiring manager, adding a handwritten signature above your typed name can add a personal touch.
• Professional contact details : Beneath your name, include your professional contact details, such as your phone number and email address, and LinkedIn profile URL to facilitate easy follow-up.

The best way to write a cover letter 

Again, if writing a cover letter is your least favorite part of the job application, you’re not alone. It can be difficult to take all the bullet-point information from a resume and turn that into a single page of compelling and persuasive text. 

From getting the cover letter format just right to writing the actual information, it’s not an easy task. 

That’s why, with a tool like Teal’s cover letter generator , there’s simply no excuse for not having a personalized cover letter with each application. 

Simply build your resume, and with the click of a button, you can have a polished and personalized cover letter in seconds. 

Sign up for Teal today to give it a try!

Frequently Asked Questions

How long should each section of a cover letter be to maintain the reader's interest, can i include bullet points in the body of my cover letter to highlight my achievements, is it necessary to address the cover letter to a specific person, and what if i can't find a name.

Nathan Thompson

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How to Structure a Cover Letter

What to include in each part of a cover letter.

The Structure of a Cover Letter

• What to Include in a Cover Letter

Sending an Email Cover Letter

Cover letter template and example.

When writing a cover letter to apply for a job, it's important to include all the requisite information clearly and efficiently.

Your cover letter is a way to grab the hiring manager's attention and it's important to be sure that it's polished, professional, and complete with the information the reader expects to see. If any elements are missing, it could even disqualify you from consideration for the job.

Here's how to structure a professional cover letter, with tips for every part and an example that includes everything.

A cover letter is comprised of several sections: your contact information, a salutation, the body of the cover letter, an appropriate closing, and a signature.

Review the structure of a cover letter, what to include in each part, and examples.

Your Contact Information

• What to include: The first section or header includes your contact information: name, address, phone or cell phone number, and your email address. It has also become common to include your LinkedIn address so that employers can immediately access your professional profile, resume, and networking contacts.  In an email, you can also list your contact info below your signature.
• Choose a style: Go with a simple centered header, or get a little fancy with the design if you're sending a hard copy. 
• Keep it professional: Also, keep in mind that your email address should sound simple and professional. Ideally, it would look like “[email protected].” Never use a “cutesy” email address that refers to your hobbies or political opinions or is off-color; your email address needs to reflect your professional identity, not your sense of humor.

You may want to create an email account dedicated solely to your career search. It can be easier to track all your correspondence when you have a dedicated email address for job hunting.

Employer Contact Information

• You can also include the employer's contact information. This is most appropriate to include on a formal, hard copy cover letter submitted through snail mail or by hand.
• If you are sending a job application by email or through an employer’s online application system, it is not as necessary to include this contact information.
• As a general rule of thumb for email applications, use the formal contact address if you know it, but don’t worry too much about omitting it otherwise.

Cover Letter Salutation

Although you may not need to know whom to address when sending a cover letter via email, getting a name to address your letter to is important. Do your research to avoid having to use the generic " To Whom It May Concern " or "Dear Sir or Madam," which can make things look like you didn't make an effort to learn more about the job or the employer. The best ways to learn contact names are to call an organization’s front office or to review their website.

To get in gear, review samples of  cover letter salutations . If you can't find a contact person, there are options you can use instead.

Cover Letter Body

The body of your cover letter lets the employer know what position you are applying for, why the employer should select you for an interview, and how you will follow up. This section of your cover letter includes:

• First paragraph : Why you are writing. This is "the grab," your chance to grasp your reader by the collar and get their attention. Offer some specific, focused information regarding the job you're seeking and a few core strengths that demonstrate your suitability for the position.
• Second paragraph : What you have to offer the employer .  This is your hook where you highlight examples of the work performed and achieved results. Draw on your key competencies from your resume, although don't copy it word for word. Bullet points in this paragraph are extremely effective in drawing your reader's eye to your successes.
• Third paragraph : Your knowledge of the company. Show you did your research and know something about the business and how you can contribute to its mission.
• Fourth paragraph : Your closing. Summarize what you would bring to the position and suggest some next steps by requesting a meeting or suggesting a call.

You can boldface quantifiable achievements like year-over-year sales figures to make these “pop” on the page.

Finish your letter with a formal closing like "Sincerely" or "Yours truly." A cover letter is a professional correspondence, so don't use informal closings like "Cheers" in the letters you write to apply for jobs.

Your Signature 

How you sign your cover letter will depend if you're sending a paper or email letter. If you're sending a paper letter, type your name after the salutation, leaving a space for your handwritten signature. If you're sending an email cover letter, type your name and contact information after your salutation.

Signature for a Hard Copy Letter Example

Mary Barnes (Your Signature)

Mary Barnes

Email Letter Signature Example

Mary Barnes Address City, State Zip Email Phone

When you're sending a cover letter via email, include your name and the job you're applying for in the subject line of the message. That way, you'll be sure your message gets opened and read.

Subject: Mary Barnes - Marketing Assistant Position

Download a cover letter template (compatible with Google Docs and Word Online), or see below for more examples.

Cover Letter Example

Lucius Applicant 123 Main Street Anytown, CA 12345 555-555-5555 lucius.applicant@email.com

August 12, 2024

William Lee Lead Mechanic Acme Auto 123 Business Rd. Business City, NY 54321 

Dear Mr. Lee:

I’m writing to apply for the position of diesel mechanic at the City Transit Agency, as advertised on the city’s careers web page. I’ve included my resume for your consideration.

In addition to my experience as a diesel mechanic, I have an excellent knowledge of gasoline engines and electric systems, and I hold a CDL driver's license. Most recently, I worked for Trailer Transfer in Middletown as their lead diesel mechanic. While I was there, I developed a training program for new hires. However, I had to leave my job due to a move to your city.

Thank you for your time and consideration. I will follow up next week to see if I can offer any more information about my skills and experience. My cell phone is 555-555-5555 and my email is lucius.applicant@email.com. 

Best regards,

Lucius Applicant (Signature hard copy letter)

Lucius Applicant

Need more examples? Here are more cover letter examples , including templates you can customize to create your own cover letters.

Key Takeaways

• A cover letter should be clear and professional, and it should also include some necessary information to help ensure your application is properly assessed.
• Structure your cover letter with your contact information, a salutation, body paragraphs detailing your qualifications and knowledge of the company, a formal closing, and your signature.
• Tailor your cover letter by addressing it to a specific person and highlighting relevant achievements.
• Make sure to demonstrate your knowledge of the company to make a strong impression on the hiring manager.

Jobscan > Cover Letter Writing Guide

How To Write A Cover Letter in 2024 (Expert Tips and Examples)

Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to write a cover letter that will get you noticed by recruiters.

Trusted by:

A survey revealed that 77% of recruiters prefer candidates who send in a cover letter, even if submitting it is optional. Additionally, 90% of executives consider cover letters invaluable when assessing job candidates.

So, if you think cover letters are no longer important and necessary in 2024, think again.

Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you write a cover letter that effectively sells your skills and professional experience, increases your chances of getting interviews, and gets your foot in the door.

Table of Contents

What is a cover letter and do you still need one in 2024?

A cover letter is a letter of introduction accompanying your resume that paints why you are the best person for the job, what you bring to the table, and how you can help move the company forward.

Is the cover letter dead? No! In fact, a recent study by ResumeLab revealed that 64% of job vacancies still require that you include a cover letter in your application and 83% of HR pros said that cover letters are important for their hiring decision.

The bottom line is that a cover letter is still a valuable piece of your job search collateral. Nail your cover letter and you could end up getting that dream job.

So what exactly do you need to accomplish in your cover letter?

What is the purpose of a cover letter?

According to 49% of HR managers , your cover letter is the second best way to call attention to your resume and distinguish yourself from other applicants.

So the main purpose of your cover letter is to compel the recruiter to read more about you on your resume and move you to the next part of the hiring process.

Further, according to award-winning resume expert Melanie Denny , your cover letter is your value proposition letter. It proves why you are the best candidate to address the company’s needs with the professional skills and qualifications to succeed in the job.

Here’s an example of a great cover letter:

Now let’s get into the details of what your cover letter needs to include.

Cover Letter Structure Checklist

Here’s a quick rundown of what you need to include in your cover letter.

• Contact Details Name Address (or City, State with zip code) Phone number Email address
• Greeting Whenever possible, address the hiring manager by name.
• Opening Who are you? What are your relevant skills and accomplishments?
• Body (1-2 paragraphs) What do you know about the company? Why are you applying for this job? What value can you bring to the company? Include measurable results when possible.
• Closing Reiterate your interest. Add a Call to Action. Mention any attachments. Use a professional sign-off like “Best” or “Sincerely” before your full name.

Here’s an example for the visual learners out there:

Now that you know the basics of what to include in your cover letter, let’s go through the process from start to finish to see how you can write a cover letter that will make you stand out from the rest of the candidates.

How to write a cover letter in 9 steps

It can be intimidating to try to parse down all your best qualities into a few quick paragraphs for your cover letter.

Here are 9 steps you can take to make sure you’re headed in the right direction:

Step 1. Do your research

Before writing your cover letter, thoroughly read the job description and the requirements for the job.

Melanie Denny , award-winning resume expert, likens the job description to your cover letter cheat sheet. And when checking the job description, she says you need to consider the following:

• What are the company’s priorities?
• What are their goals for the role?
• What outcomes and accomplishments in your previous roles match the goals?
• What are the key phrases and verbiage the company uses?

This will help you customize your cover letter, angle yourself and your narrative to fit the role better, and impress the hiring manager.

Try reaching out to the recruiter, hiring manager, or someone working in the company if you want more in-depth information about the company and the position you are applying for.

Step 2. Customize your cover letter for every job

Make sure your cover letter matches the job you are applying for. Writing a generic cover letter is a missed opportunity as this will not appeal to the recruiter or hiring manager. According to research from ResumeGo , 81% of HR professionals value job-specific cover letters over generic ones. Jobseekers who had tailored cover letters received a 53% higher callback rate compared to those who had no cover letter.

Remember, your cover letter is your chance to prove that you are passionate about working for a given company, so take the time to write a tailored cover letter for each position . You can do this by mentioning your skills and experience that are directly related to what’s mentioned in the job description. If you’re applying for a data analyst role that requires expertise in Microsoft Power BI, cite an example of a Power BI dashboard you built and how it helped the company.

Read our full guide: How to Optimize Your Cover Letter

Step 3. Include all of your contact info

You should make it easy for the hiring manager to reach you. In your cover letter, list these three things:

• Address (including zip code– for ATS purposes )
• Phone number with area code
• Email address
• Name of the Hiring Manager
• Name of the Company
• Address of the Company

Traditionally, your contact information is included in the upper left corner of your cover letter if you’re writing in a document. If you’re writing an email, this can be included beneath your signature at the end of the message.

Cover Letter Header Example:

Jane Jobscan Seattle, WA 98101 (555) 555-5555 • [email protected] linkedin.com/in/jane-jobscan

February 25, 2024

Lavinia Smith Hiring Manager Media Raven, Inc. Plantersville, MS 38862

Step 4. Address your cover letter to a real person

According to Melanie Denny, resume expert and President of Resume-Evolution, addressing your cover letter to a real person and addressing them by their name feels more personal and shows recruiters and hiring managers that you took time and did the research.

You can usually find the hiring manager’s name by searching the company website or LinkedIn profile, or by calling the company and asking which hiring manager is assigned to the particular position.

Once you learn the name, a simple greeting of “John” or “Hello John” is all you need.

If you can’t find the hiring manager’s name, you can use any of the following:

• Dear Hiring Manager
• Dear (Department) Team
• To whom it may concern

Read our full guide: How to Address a Cover Letter

Step 5. Write a strong opening statement

Melanie Denny suggests that you start your cover letter with a bang. This will hook the hiring manager’s interest and show them how you can be a valuable addition to the team.

Here are things you can do:

• Open with a thought-provoking question
• Make a big claim about what you can do for the company
• Say something relevant and specific to the company

For example,

“I want to bring the marketing department of Media Raven Inc. to the next level and help the company exceed goals and reach more customers as Marketing Manager.”

Step 6. Prove how your professional background and skills help the company in the body of your cover letter

Take advantage of this real estate and prove to the prospective employer how your background, values, and professional experiences position you as the best fit for what the role requires.

This is especially important if you are switching careers. Highlight your relevant accomplishments in your cover letter, showcase your transferable skills, and explain how you can help the company address its challenges and succeed.

For example:

“As the Director of Marketing at ABC Company since 2018, I directed all phases of both the creative and technical elements of marketing initiatives, including data mining, brand creation, print/web collateral development, lead generation, channel partner cultivation, customer segmentation/profiling, as well as CRM and acquisition strategies.

Perhaps most importantly, I offer a history of proven results, as evidenced by the following marketing accomplishments for my current employer:

• Captured a 28% expansion in customer base since 2018, achieved during a period of overall decline in the retail industry.
• Led national marketing campaign (comprised of trade shows, media, and PR initiatives) for my company’s newly launched technology services division
• Developed and executed SEO strategy that achieved and sustained top 3 rankings on Google (organic, nonpaid results) for key product search terms.
• Oversaw the creation of a new company logo and rebranded 100+ products to cement a cohesive corporate identity and support new company direction.”

Just like when writing a resume, your cover letter should only include the most relevant and positive information about you. To home in on the right skills and qualifications to mention, try scanning your cover letter .

Read our full guide: What Do You Put in a Cover Letter?

Step 7. Write a strong closing statement and a call to action

Use the closing of your cover letter to:

• Thank the hiring manager for their time
• Mention any attachments (resume, portfolio, samples)
• Invite to schedule an interview
• Let the hiring manager know that you will follow up

Keep the closing professional and try not to sound too eager since that can come off as desperate. You must also keep in mind the tone and personality of the company you’re communicating with.

“Given the opportunity, I’m confident I can achieve similar groundbreaking marketing results for Media Raven, Inc.

Ms. Smith, I would welcome the chance to discuss your marketing objectives and how I can help you attain them. Feel free to call me at (555) 555-5555 or email me at [email protected] to arrange a meeting. I look forward to speaking with you.”

Read our full guide: How to End a Cover Letter With a Call to Action

Step 8. End with a professional closing salutation

To finish out the closing , use a formal signature. You can use “Sincerely,” “Best,” “Regards,” “Yours,” or any other professional signoff.

Use your first and last name as your signature. If you’re sending your cover letter in the body of an email, make sure it’s your personal email account that does not list your current work signature beneath the email. Your other option is to write the cover letter in a word document, save it as a PDF, and attach it to your email.

Step 9. Optimize your cover letter for the ATS

The Applicant Tracking System or the ATS is a software that companies use to screen applications and shrink their pool of applicants. Through the ATS database, a recruiter or hiring manager can just search for specific skills and keywords and the ATS will return a list of the top candidates who match the search criteria.

To optimize your cover letter for ATS, you need to:

• Carefully read the job description
• Take note of skills and resume keywords frequently mentioned
• Incorporate these keywords into your cover letter

Read our full guide: How to Optimize Your Cover Letter to Beat the ATS

Does your cover letter pass the test?

Scan your cover letter to see how well it matches the job you're applying for. Optimize your cover letter and resume with Jobscan to get more interviews.

How to Format Your Cover Letter

A cover letter is a letter, but that doesn’t mean you should just plop everything onto the page in a stream-of-consciousness flow. After all, cover letter formats determine the order in which the hiring manager learns about you, which can significantly influence their first impression. Use the format order below as a guideline for building the structure of your cover letter.

Notice how the topics flow like a conversation? When you first meet someone, you introduce yourself, tell them your name and a little about yourself, and then leave the conversation open for future meetings.

Your cover letter is just a like having a conversation with someone for the first time. Keeping that in mind will help you to keep things simple and focus on the right information.

Below are some examples of how to format your cover letter for different types of applications.

How to format your cover letter for a job

• State your name
• Explain your work history
• Tell them what you can do for their company
• Say goodbye

How to format your cover letter for an internship

• Explain your coursework history and education
• Explain what you can gain professionally

How to format your cover letter with no experience

• Explain your skillset and character qualities that make you well-suited for the role
• Outline entry-level achievements

You can also check out our cover letter templates to help you as you write your own cover letter.

Do you want to save time and receive instant feedback on your cover letter? Check out Jobscan’s cover letter tool .

Read more : How to Write a Resume for Today’s Job Market

Cover Letter Examples

Here are some examples to help you create a cover letter that will make you stand out and give a strong first impression.

1. Internship Cover Letter Example

2. Career Change Cover Letter Example

3. Operations Manager Cover Letter Example

4. Communications Professional Cover Letter Example

5. Software Engineer Cover Letter Example

Cover Letter Do’s and Don’ts

Aside from the basic steps of how to write a cover letter, there are some things you definitely need to make sure you avoid – and things you can’t skip! Follow these do’s and don’ts for writing a cover letter, and you’ll end up with a much better result.

• Use a cover letter unless one was requested.
• Attach a cover letter directly to your resume unless requested to do so.
• Use the same boilerplate cover letter for multiple job applications.
• Over-explain your work history, employment gaps, or qualifications – save it for the interview.
• Badmouth any of your past employers.
• Use the cover letter to complain or tell about your job search journey.
• Use non-standard formatting like tables, columns, or graphics. (ATS can’t read those and your cover letter copy might not be scannable by the system.)
• Use long paragraphs.
• Customize a cover letter for every job application that asks for one.
• Incorporate the top skills or keywords from the job description in your cover letter.
• Include the company name and address, the job title, and point of contact’s name on your cover letter.
• Incorporate relevant and compelling measurable results in your cover letter.
• Explain, briefly, any dramatic shifts in a career (i.e. you are changing industries or job titles).
• Use company information to relate your interest in the job.
• Keep your cover letter concise.
• Convey WHY you are right for the position.

More Cover Letter Tips

• When emailing your cover letter, be strategic with your subject line. Never leave the subject line blank, and double-check for specific instructions in the job posting. If possible, use the email subject line to sell yourself. For example: “Experienced Software Engineer Seeks Senior Level Mobile Position.”
• Keep your cover letter brief and to the point. The hiring manager will be reading many cover letters. By carefully selecting your words and experiences to include, you can stand out from the crowd of applicants.
• Be confident. Let the hiring manager know the reasons why you deserve this position, and make yourself believe them too!
• Your cover letter should not be simply a rephrasing of your resume. Let your personality show and go into further detail about your most valuable skills and experiences.
• Do your research on the company and position before writing the cover letter. It should be customized to that specific company’s values and needs. Hiring managers can spot a generic resume from a mile away.
• Use the job posting as your guide for what topics, skills, and experience to focus on.
• The best cover letters include keywords from the job posting. Applicant tracking systems may scan your cover letter along with your resume and will be using these keywords to sort through the applicants.
• Check for spelling and grammar errors.
• Send your cover letter as a PDF to avoid readability issues and to present the most professional application package.
• Scan Your Cover Letter with Jobscan to make sure you’re checking all the boxes.

Optimize Your Cover Letter with Jobscan’s Cover Letter Scanner

In addition to resume scans, Jobscan Premium users can also scan their cover letters against a job description.

This generates a report of the top hard skills and soft skills found in the job description that should be included in your cover letter, plus additional checks for optimal length, contact information, measurable results, and more.

Here’s how it works:

Key Takeaways

Your cover letter gives recruiters, hiring managers, and prospective employers an overview of your professional qualifications and relevant accomplishments that position you as the best candidate for the job.

So you have to make your cover letter powerful and interesting enough to make the recruiter or hiring manager read your resume and move you to the next step of the hiring process.

Here are key pointers when writing your cover letter.

• Make sure you’ve read the job description and done your research about the company.
• Get to know the name of the recruiter or hiring manager so you can address your cover letter properly.
• Include relevant and measurable accomplishments in the body of your cover letter to prove to the hiring manager that you have what it takes to succeed in the job.
• Keep your cover letter short and concise.
• Your cover letter is not a substitute for your resume so don’t just copy and paste whatever is in your resume into your cover letter.

One last important reminder!

Having a strong cover letter is not enough. You also need to create a killer resume to make sure you stand out and land job interviews.

Learn more about writing a cover letter

How to Address a Cover Letter

10 Tips for Writing a Cover Letter

The Career Change Cover Letter: How to Get it Right

What Do You Put in a Cover Letter?

Is Your Cover Letter Robot-Approved?

How to End a Cover Letter with a Call to Action

Frequently asked questions, what are the different types of cover letters.

There are four types of cover letters.

• Application cover letter An application cover letter is what you send to the recruiter or hiring manager along with your resume.
• Prospecting cover letter You send this when you want to inquire prospective employers about open positions in their company or put yourself top-of-mind when they do decide to hire.
• Networking cover letter You will send this to professionals in your network in hopes of getting referrals, introductions, job search advice, and job opportunities.
• Career change cover letter This is what you send when you are switching careers or industries.

What tense should I use when writing a cover letter?

It can be appropriate to change tenses throughout your cover letter.

For example, you can explain who you are in the present tense and explain important aspects of your work history in the past tense. You can switch to future perfect tense when discussing the ways you would perform if given the position.

Think of it like this, “I am ABC, I did XYZ previously, and I look forward to doing EFG in this position.”

What to include in a cover letter

Our cover letter guidelines above explain how to write a cover letter more deeply, but in summary, you should always include your name, relevant work experience, and reasons why you are right for the job in your cover letter.

When not to include a cover letter

• When the job posting clearly states not to include a cover letter
• When you don’t have the time and energy to customize your cover letter. It’s better not to send a cover letter than to send a half-baked and mediocre one.
• When you are applying online and there is no field to upload your cover letter.
• When your cover letter has a lot of typos and errors.

What should you send first: a cover letter or a resume?

Typically, your cover letter and resume will be sent as a pair, but your cover letter is meant to be an introduction to your resume. If it is an email, use the cover letter in the body and attach your resume, otherwise, attach both.

Pro Tip: Be sure to review all instructions in the job description to follow the hiring manager’s requests.

How long should a cover letter be?

According to 70% of recruiters, a cover letter should not exceed 250 to 300 words.

Although there is no hard and fast rule about this, the ideal cover letter length should be around half a page to one full page in length to keep your message concise, clear, and easy to digest.

Should a cover letter be sent as a file attachment?

If it is not specified in the job posting, a cover letter can be sent either as an attachment (PDF is best) or in the body of an application email with your resume attached.

How to share a cover letter with a potential employer

There are several methods of sharing a cover letter with potential employers, depending on their application process.

Cover letters can be written on a document and turned into a PDF to be uploaded to a job application website or attached to an email along with your resume.

In other cases, your cover letter can simply be written in the email message to a hiring manager, with your resume attached.

How to title and save your cover letter

The key in every aspect of job applications is to make yourself an easy “yes” for your potential employer. That means making it easy for the hiring manager to keep track of your application materials for later review. With this in mind, make sure your full name and the phrase “cover letter” are included in the file label. Other helpful details might include the job title you’re applying for or the year of your application.

Here are a few examples:

• Your Name_Cover Letter_Job Title.pdf
• Cover Letter_Your Name_Job Title.pdf
• Job Title_Your Name_Cover Letter.pdf
• Your Name_Cover Letter_2024.pdf
• Cover Letter_Your Name_2024.pdf

Explore more cover letter resources

Cover Letter Formats

ATS-Optimized Cover Letter

Cover Letter Templates

Generate a personalized cover letter in as little as 5 seconds

Say goodbye to the stress of writing a cover letter from scratch. Our AI-powered cover letter generator uses GPT-4 technology to create a personalized and ATS-friendly cover letter in one click. Stand out from the competition and land more job interviews.

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Cover Letter Worksheet

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Effective cover letters are marketing tools for your job or internship search. Since marketing is about understanding and meeting the needs of a specific audience, your letter should focus on the needs of a specific employer. These needs or requirements are typically described in the job posting, which can help you tailor your background to fit each opportunity. Use this worksheet to brainstorm content for a uniquely customized letter.

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Prepare Your Resume and Cover Letter

Before you apply for any open positions, it’s important to have your resume and cover letter prepared. While a resume and cover letter are not always required for an application, you’ll have a MUCH better chance of being hired if you use these two documents to highlight your work experience, skills, and enthusiasm.  

Employers often sift through hundreds of applications for each position, and some might even discard applications that do not include a resume or cover letter. These documents are your first introduction to an employer, which makes them an important tool in showing them you are a strong candidate for the job. 

What’s the difference?  

Resumes and cover letters present some of the same information, but they serve two distinct purposes. 

A resume is a one to two page document—often in the form of a bulleted list—that provides an overview of your professional qualifications. Resumes are typically written in the third person, and use as few words as possible to summarize your experience.  

An effective cover letter is a short declaration of your enthusiasm for the job itself, and an extra chance to make yourself look like the ideal candidate. While a resume is concise and to the point, a cover letter can provide detailed examples of how your work experience relates to the job you’re applying for.  

It can feel like a challenge to write these documents, but the Library has resources, materials, and staff expertise to help you!  

Request an Appointment 

Library staff can review your resume and cover letter, conduct a mock interview, and more!   Contact Us: 412-622-3114 or [email protected]  

Need Help? Contact us!

Resources to Get Started

Here are some general resources to help you get started:  

Library Resources 

DigitalLearn: Creating Resumes   DigitalLearn a rich resource for self-directed learning that won’t be overwhelming. All courses are broken down into short videos with helpful handouts so you can follow along. You can learn everything from computer basics to Microsoft Excel and more! Click here to see all DigitalLearn courses.  

LinkedIn Learning: *  

• Writing a Resume with Stacey Gordon 
• The New Rules for Resumes with Emilie Aries 
• Resume Makeover with Jenny Foss 

* Log into LinkedIn Learning with your Library card number, then search for the class title. 

Print Books Available at CLP: Expert Resumes Series   The Expert Resumes book series is a useful resource if you’re looking for resume examples for specific job types. These books can give you examples of good (and bad!) resumes, as well as provide guidance on how to think about getting your work history down onto paper and into resume shape. 

Print Books Available at CLP: Knock ‘Em Dead Series  The Knock ‘Em Dead series is another great resource for resume examples, templates, and more. 

Internet Resources  

Indeed: How to Make a Resume (With Examples)  

The Balance Careers: How to Write a Resume (With Examples)  

Indeed: Resume Examples by Industry  

Monster: Resume Examples by Industry  

Zety: Resume Examples and Samples for Any Job and Industry  

Resume Review 

CareerLink RezScore   Once you have a first draft of your resume, you can use CareerLink’s useful, free tool for resume review called RezScore. Upload a copy of your file to the website and RezScore provides you with a score that can help you make effective edits to improve readability. 

Writing a Resume

Resumes can be formatted in several different ways, but there are certain elements every hiring manager will be looking for, including contact information, work or professional history, educational background, and skills.  

Before sitting down at a computer to write your resume, it can be helpful to gather the information you want to include in your resume. Our Resume Worksheet can help you have all your information ready. 

• Resume Worksheet

How to Digitize Your Resume 

Once you’ve gathered the information you want to include in your resume, you can start typing up your resume on the computer. Here are some ways to get started.  

Pro Tip: Keep It Simple . It can feel tempting to spend a lot of time making your resume flashy and full of color and graphics. However, unless you are entering a design field, a basic resume with clear information is most important for your applications. 

Microsoft Word 

You can access the full, desktop version of Microsoft Word on any Library computer. You can also access a free, online version of Word by creating a Microsoft account with an email address. Use the search bar in either the desktop or online version to find ready-to-edit resume templates, or browse downloadable templates at office.com . 

Google Docs 

Similar to the online version of Microsoft Word, Google Docs is accessible with a Google account and offers template options for creating your resume. Your progress will save in the cloud, and you can download, print, and email your document when it’s finished. Hover over the “plus” icon in the bottom right corner and click “choose template” to find ready-to-edit resume templates, or browse available templates at ResumeGenius.com  

Resume Builders 

A word of caution about resume builders : there are many available online, but be aware that most are not free of charge. Many resume builders will allow you to write your whole resume before requesting payment for full access to your document, costing you time, effort, and money.  

resume.com is a simple, free resume builder that allows you to build, download, and print your resume for free. You can even download a text version of your resume to save and edit later. However, you’ll need to have or create an Indeed account if you want to download or print your resume.  

If you’re willing to pay, some resume builders include resume critiques, reviews, and proofreading. Check out this guide by Balance Careers to find a resume builder that suits your needs. However, keep in mind that you can make an appointment with the Library to have your resume reviewed for free! 

Parts of a Resume 

Heading : The heading of your resume includes your full name and contact information, like your phone number and email address.  

Email Address : Include a professional-sounding email address, ideally something that contains your first and last name. If you do not have an email address, library staff can help you set one up, or you can click here for a quick guide .  

Phone Number : You should include the best phone number to reach you, and make sure your voicemail box is set up so you can receive messages.  

Home or Mailing Address : You can include your home address if you’d like, but most employers won’t need it until further into the hiring process. If you are applying for jobs outside of the city where you currently live, consider leaving your home address out of your resume (though keep in mind that if you’re chosen for an interview, they’ll likely expect you to appear in person).  

Career Summary : Including a summary of your professional achievements can be a more effective way of grabbing an employer’s attention. Remember to keep it short; include one or two sentences that sum up the skills and experience you think are most relevant to the job you’re applying for. 

What About the Objective Statement? If you’ve written resumes in the past, you may remember the “Objective Statement” that used to start most resumes. The Career Summary is a more modern introduction to your resume that allows you to highlight your qualifications, rather than stating what you seek in a position.  

Resources for Writing a Career Summary 

Indeed: A Complete Resume Summary Guide  

Monster: 15 Awesome Resume Summary Examples  

The Balance Careers: How to Write a Resume Summary Statement with Examples  

Professional Experience : This section makes up the bulk of your resume. Here, you’ll list your past jobs and other professional experience. For each entry, you’ll include:  

• Your job/position title 
• The employer or organization and their location (city and state) 
• Dates of employment (month and year) 
• Several bullet points describing your role and responsibilities 

Pro Tip : The most common way to list your professional experience is chronologically , with your most recent job first. However, if you’re writing a resume for a career change, or have a large gap in your professional history, you might want to explore using a functional resume or a combination resume. Be aware that some application tracking software programs reject resumes without a chronological work history.  

How to Write About Your Professional Experience 

• List your most prominent and important duties first.  
• Focus on your skills and achievements.  
• Quantify your achievements . As often as possible, use numbers, amounts, dollar values, and percentages to describe your work. For example, you might say “Increased monthly sales by 40%” or “Supervised and trained 4 new employees.” Learn more about including numbers in your resume at The Balance Careers .  
• Start each bulleted item with a strong “action verb.”  You can find examples of these words at The Balance Careers , Carnegie Mellon University , and Indeed  
• Include Keywords . You can choose relevant keywords from the description of the job you are applying for and use them to describe your past experience. This helps automated systems recognize that your experience fits the requirements of the new position. Learn more about keywords at The Balance Careers , Indeed , and Jobscan  

Pro Tip : If you’re having trouble finding the right words to talk about your accomplishments, try using O*Net Online to search for your job title. O*Net provides descriptions of common occupation-specific tasks, technology skills, work activities, and more.  

Resources for Describing Your Professional Experience 

The Balance Careers: How to Write Job Descriptions for Your Resume  

Indeed: How to Write Resume Job Descriptions (With Examples)  

Drexel University: Work Experience Descriptions  

O*Net Online: Occupational Data  

Education : If you completed your education or degree in the last 5 years, you can list your education section at the top of your resume, before your work experience, as it is likely the most prominent piece of your resume. If you graduated more than 5 years ago, move your education section below your professional experience. List the name of the school or certifying body, the dates you attended, and the degree or certificate you achieved. You can also include any honors received, and your GPA if it is above 3.4. If you are currently enrolled in a program, list the year of intended graduation. Learn more about including your education history on Indeed, Monster ,  

Skills : Here, you can list specific skills you possess that relate directly to the job you are applying for. You can include computer skills, technical skills, and soft skills. Learn more about listing skills on your resume on Indeed, RobertHalf , and The Balance Careers  

Optional Categories : Achievements, Languages, Awards, etc.: There may be additional information you’d like to include on your resume that doesn’t fit in other sections, or skills that you’d like to draw special attention to.  

Writing a Cover Letter

A cover letter is the place to connect the content of your resume to the opportunity and demonstrate that you have done your research about your potential employer, plus any details that may strike an employer as odd. Maybe there is a large gap between jobs or you wanted to expand on a project in your resume. You will want to gather those extra details and the research you did about the job to compile into a cover letter that will show your personality to the employer.  

Our Cover Letter Worksheet can help you collect these thoughts and create an outline to write a strong and personal cover letter. There is also a template included. 

Here are some more resources to get you started with your cover letter:  

Library Resources  

• Writing a Cover Letter with Jenny Foss 
• Cover Letter Tips with Jenny Foss 
• Cover Letter Dos and Don’ts 

Udemy: *  

• Line By Line Resume Writing: Write a Resume and Cover Letter with Alex Genadinik 
• Career Hacking: World’s Bestselling Job Search Course with Davis Jones 
• Job Search Mastery, with Steve Ballinger 

* Log into Udemy with your CLP Library card number, then search for the class title. 

Print Books Available at CLP: These books will help you learn about how to tailor your cover letters to each individual job posting efficiently and successfully. They’ll also provide information on common mistakes so you can avoid them. 

GCFGlobal: Cover Letter Tutorial  

Indeed: How to Write a Cover letter  

Monster: How to Write a Cover Letter  

Harvard Business Review: How to Write a Cover Letter  

The Muse: How to Write a Cover Letter: The All-Time Best Tips  

Robert Half: Writing a Cover Letter That Will Stand Out  

Cover Letter Samples and Templates 

Indeed: Cover Letter Samples by Industry  

Monster: Cover Letters by Industry  

The Balance Careers: Cover Letters by Industry  

• Cover Letter Worksheet

How to Format a Cover Letter 

You can start your cover letter by using a template from one of the resources listed above, or through Microsoft Word and Google Docs . Generally, your cover letter should: 

• Be no more than 1 page in length 
• Use a professional, readable fond like Ariel or Calibri at size 10 – 12 
• Be aligned to the left of the page and single spaced 
• Have margins set to 1 inch 

Parts of a Cover Letter 

Heading : In most cases, your heading should match the look and format of your resume. You’ll include your full name and contact information. Remember to use a professional email address, preferably with your first and last name. If you do not have an email address, library staff can help you set one up, or you can click here for a quick guide . 

You can also include the employer’s name and address, especially if you are presenting a hard copy cover letter by hand or mail.  

Greeting : Do your best to avoid a generic salutation like “To Whom It May Concern." Instead, aim to address your letter to the hiring manager, the direct supervisor of the position, or the head of the department. The best ways to learn contact names are to call the organization’s front office or to review their website. Find out more about cover letter salutations at The Balance Careers , Indeed , and The Muse . 

First Paragraph : In your opening paragraph, mention the job title, where you heard about the opportunity, and express your enthusiasm for the position. Is there a specific reason you chose to apply? What interests you about the company or organization? This is where you can explain your reasons and show a little about what you know about the employer.  

Middle Paragraph : The middle paragraph will serve as your body paragraph. Here is where you will identify what the employer is looking for in a candidate and connect that to your own skills and experience to demonstrate that you are a strong candidate for the job. It is also good to set yourself apart from other candidates by including something unique about yourself, such as an anecdote about a time your skills helped you achieve a goal or solve a problem.  

Pro Tip : Remember to incorporate keywords and phrases from the job posting in your cover letter. Find out more at Indeed , The Balance Careers , and Resume.com  

Third Paragraph : This will be the conclusion to your letter. Focus on another key achievement or skill that is relevant to the position, or expand on specific stories that display why you would be a good fit for the role. Invite the employer to contact you via the methods listed in the heading. Make sure you thank them for their time and end with your signature! 

Customizing Your Cover Letters 

Taking the time to customize your cover letter for each of your job applications can make a real difference in your hiring prospects. Personalizing your letters to each company or organization will present a compelling argument for why you are the best fit for the position. Here are some ways that you can tailor your cover letters to each position:  

• Pay close attention to the top requirements listed in the job posting, and aim to relate your experience to these requirements. 
• Research the company’s mission and describe how you align with their goals 
• Include keywords and phrases from the job posting 

Resources for Customizing Your Cover Letters 

Indeed: How to Write a Personalized Cover Letter  

TopResume: How to Tailor Your Cover Letter for Each Job Application  

The Balance Careers: How to Write a Custom Cover Letter  

The Muse: This Is the Cover Letter Advice Everyone Misunderstands  

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IR-2024-161, June 10, 2024

WASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service today reminded taxpayers whose income is not subject to withholding that the second quarter estimated tax payment deadline is June 17.

Taxpayers making estimated tax payments should consider this deadline to avoid falling behind on their taxes and facing possible underpayment penalties. And the IRS reminds taxpayers that third quarter payments are due Sept. 16, and the final estimated tax payment for tax year 2024 will be due on Jan. 15, 2025.

For eligible taxpayers, disaster tax relief includes the postponement of filing and payment deadlines. For current tax relief provisions, search Tax relief in disaster situations and visit the IRS news from around the nation page on IRS.gov for the current list of eligible localities.

Estimated tax payments are usually made by taxpayers who are self-employed, retirees, investors, businesses, corporations and other individuals who do not have taxes withheld.

Pay-as-you-go

Taxes are pay-as-you-go, to be paid as income is earned, during the year. There are two ways for taxpayers to do this:

• Withholding from pay, pension or certain government payments, such as Social Security.
• Making quarterly estimated tax payments throughout the year.

For taxpayers where not enough taxes are being withheld from their salary, pension or other income, estimated tax payments may have to be made. Taxpayers who are employed can avoid having to make estimated tax payments by asking their employer to withhold a larger amount from their earnings by submitting a new Form W-4, Employee's Withholding Certificate .

Who needs to pay estimated tax?

Taxpayers including sole proprietors, partners and S corporation shareholders must make estimated tax payments if they expect to have a tax liability of $1,000 or more when they file their return.

The   IRS Interactive Tax Assistant   is an online tool that taxpayers can use to see if they are required to make estimated tax payments. Taxpayers can also see the worksheet in Form 1040-ES, Estimated Tax for Individuals , for more information about who must pay estimated tax.

Corporations that expect to owe tax of $500 or more, generally must make estimated tax payments. For more information, corporations can see Publication 542, Corporations .

For additional details, see Publication 505, Tax Withholding and Estimated Tax . It includes worksheets and examples that can be especially useful for taxpayers who have dividend or capital gain income, owe alternative minimum or self-employment tax or have other situations.

Keep records of income reported on Form 1099-K

Individuals working a part-time job or side hustle must report their income . Earnings may be reported to the IRS on a Form W-2, or type of Form 1099. Recipients of Form 1099-K, Payment Card and Third Party Network Transactions PDF must use it with other tax records to help report income.

Taxpayers earning income not subject to withholding are encouraged to consider making quarterly estimated tax payments during the year to stay current and avoid an unexpected tax bill.

Remember, all income is taxable unless it is specifically excluded by tax law. Taxpayers should report any profits from selling goods or services, regardless of if they receive a Form 1099-K.

Paying estimated tax

Electronic payment is the most secure, fastest and easiest way for taxpayers to make an estimated tax payment. Taxpayers can use their online account or IRS Direct Pay to make a payment using their checking or savings account. A credit/debit card or digital wallet can also be used. When using a credit/debit card, taxpayers should be aware that payment processors, not the IRS, charge a fee to do so. Payments can be made at IRS.gov/payments and through the IRS2Go app . Both Direct Pay and credit/debit card and digital wallet options are available.

The Electronic Federal Tax Payment System (EFTPS) can also be used to make an estimated payment. Payment by check or money order made payable to the “United States Treasury” is accepted. For instructions and help figuring out their estimated tax, taxpayers should refer to Form 1040-ES, Estimated Tax for Individuals .

Electronic funds transfer must be used by corporations to make all federal tax deposits, for example deposits of employment, excise and corporate income tax. Installment payments of estimated tax must also be made via this method. Usually, an electronic funds transfer is made via the EFTPS .

Avoiding an underpayment penalty

To avoid an underpayment penalty at tax time, taxpayers should pay most of their taxes during the year, owing less than a $1000 when filing their return. Generally, for 2024 that means paying at least 90% of the tax owed on their 2024 return, or at a minimum 100% of the tax shown on their year 2023 tax return.

Exceptions to the underpayment of estimated tax penalty and special rules apply for some groups of taxpayers, such as farmers, fishermen, certain higher income taxpayers, casualty and/or disaster victims, those who recently became disabled, recent retirees and those who receive income unevenly during the year.

The use of the tax Tax Withholding Estimator by taxpayers will help ensure that the right amount of tax is being withheld from their paychecks or other income that is subject to withholding. Estimates provided are as accurate as the information entered by taxpayers.

This tool can help taxpayers avoid having too little tax withheld and facing an unexpected tax bill at tax time next year.

24/7 assistance at IRS.gov

For assistance, tax help is available 24/7 on IRS.gov. Taxpayers can use a variety of tools to find answers to common tax questions, including the Interactive Tax Assistant , Tax Topics and frequently asked questions .

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