W-4Employee's Withholding Certificate
Tells your employer how much federal income tax to withhold from each paycheck. Getting it right avoids a big tax bill or excessive refund.
Who needs to file this form
Every employee fills out a W-4 when starting a new job. You should also submit a new W-4 whenever your situation changes: marriage, divorce, new baby, buying a home, starting a side gig, or if your last refund/tax bill was significantly more than expected. You can update your W-4 at any time during the year.
Key Deadlines
Submit when starting a new job
First day of employment (or before first paycheck)
Update anytime your situation changes
No deadline -- submit a new one to HR anytime
Step-by-Step Filing Guide
Step 1: Enter personal information
Provide your name, address, SSN, and filing status (Single/Married Filing Jointly/Head of Household). Your filing status here should match what you'll use on your tax return. This is the most important selection -- it determines base withholding.
Step 2: Multiple jobs or spouse works
If you have more than one job or your spouse works, use the IRS Tax Withholding Estimator (irs.gov/W4App) or the multiple jobs worksheet. Without this step, you may underwithhold and owe taxes. For two similar-paying jobs, checking the box in Step 2(c) is the simplest option.
Step 3: Claim dependents
Multiply qualifying children under 17 by $2,200 (for 2026). Multiply other dependents by $500. Enter the total. This reduces withholding to account for Child Tax Credits you'll receive.
Step 4: Other adjustments (optional)
4(a) -- Other income not from jobs (interest, dividends, side gig) to increase withholding. 4(b) -- Deductions beyond the standard deduction to decrease withholding. 4(c) -- Extra withholding per paycheck if you want to ensure you don't owe.
Sign and submit to employer
Give the completed W-4 to your employer's HR or payroll department. Your employer adjusts your withholding starting with the next payroll cycle. You can check results using the IRS Withholding Estimator after a few pay periods.
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