w4 instructions

Forum|Forum|4 months ago
May 13, 2026
3 replies
397 views

I'm confused by this line on the W-4 form, Step 2:

"Complete Steps 3–4(b) on Form W-4 for only ONE of these jobs. Leave those steps blank for the other jobs."

My husband has two jobs, and I have one job. So my husband would fill out a W-4 according to his highest paying job, but what about me and my W4? Do I fill it out according to my job alone? Or do I also fill it out according to his highest paying job?

Ask the Experts - W4 - May 2026

KatieP1

Level 6

To coordinate the three jobs, you treat the household as one unit, with one lead form and 2 secondary forms. Here's how it breaks down:

The Lead Form (the highest-paying job - let's assume it is held by your husband):

Step 1: Married filing jointly.

Step 2: Use the Multiple Jobs Worksheet (on page 3 of the W-4). Since your household has three jobs, simply checking the box isn't precise enough.

Step 3: Enter in the math for any dependent and other credits.

Step 4: Enter any extra withholding amount from the Multiple Jobs Worksheet on Line 4(c).

The Secondary Forms (his lower-paying job and your job):

Step 1: Married filing jointly.

Step 2-4: Leave these entirely blank.

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HeatherPalmerAuthor

Level 2

Thanks!

So when completing the multiple jobs worksheet - for just the highest paying job's employer - do we follow instructions in #1 or #2? I'm guessing #2?

And for the other two "secondary" W4's for those employers: It's definitely ok to check the box that says we only have two jobs, even though we actually have 3?