W-4 Withholding Calculator
Calculate the correct W-4 withholding to avoid owing taxes or over-withholding. Get step-by-step W-4 line instructions based on your filing status and income.
Side job, freelance, interest, dividends
Only if you plan to itemize (leave 0 to use standard deduction)
Eligible for $2,000 Child Tax Credit each
Eligible for $500 Other Dependent Credit each
Related calculators
Frequently asked questions
What is a W-4 form?
IRS Form W-4, Employee's Withholding Certificate, tells your employer how much federal income tax to withhold from each paycheck. It was redesigned in 2020 — there are no more withholding allowances. Instead, you enter dollar amounts for additional income, deductions, and dependents.
When should I update my W-4?
Update your W-4 after major life changes: marriage, divorce, a new job, birth of a child, a second job, or large changes in other income. The IRS also recommends a mid-year paycheck checkup using its Tax Withholding Estimator at irs.gov to avoid surprises at tax time.
Can I claim exempt from withholding?
You can claim exempt only if you had zero federal income tax liability last year AND expect zero liability this year. Claiming exempt incorrectly can result in a large tax bill plus underpayment penalties.
What if I have two jobs or my spouse works?
Use the IRS Tax Withholding Estimator at irs.gov/w4app for the most accurate multi-job calculation. Alternatively, each spouse files a W-4 with 'Married Filing Jointly' checked and leaves Steps 3-4 blank on the lower-paying job's W-4 to avoid underwithholding.