W4 adjustments

Forum|Forum|26 days ago
May 13, 2026
1 reply
1 view

How do my husband and I fill out our w4’s so we don’t have to pay in, and instead come close to breaking even?

Ask the Experts - W4 - May 2026

AmitaR

Employee Tax & Finance Expert

1. Filing Status: Step 1c. If you select Married filing jointly, make sure to check the box in Step 2c. You may want to select Single or Married filing separately.

2. You did not mention whether you have children. If you do, make sure both of you don't claim the same dependent. That is Step 3 on the Form W-4. Leave it blank if your income is over the threshold.

3. Step 4a. If you selected Married filing jointly, don't enter your spouse's income here (spouse is already doing their own withholding) You can enter the income here that does not have any withholdings. Step 4b. If you itemize deductions or you have overtime, tips or other Senior deductions (One Big Beautiful Bill), you can enter here or leave this blank just to be on the safe side to make sure enough is taken out. Did you have balance due on your 2025 return? You can have "Extra Withholding" on Step 4c.

Thanks for joining the event @Rschoner

**Say "Thanks" by clicking the thumb icon in a post. **Mark the post that answers your question by clicking on "Mark as Best Answer"