Why sign in to the Community?

  • Submit a question
  • Check your notifications
Sign in to the Community or Sign in to TurboTax and start working on your taxes
Returning Member
posted Nov 18, 2021 8:49:46 PM

Should I claim 0 or 1 on a form w4 for tax withholding

I am currently a 20 year old full time college student. I also have a part-time job. I don’t make much money during the year with my job but I usually make around 5,000-7,000 dollars depending on how many hours I worked during the year. My income isn’t high so should I claim 0 or 1 on a form w4? I know that claiming 0 means you get more taxes deducted so I am kind of hesitant.

0 4 137031
4 Replies
Level 8
Nov 18, 2021 9:56:47 PM

if you claim 0, you may have a few dollars less in your paycheck and then get it back at the end of the year as a refund.  If you 1, you could owe something at the end of the year.  The perfect return is to not owe any money and not get a refund.   

The IRS Estimator will let you know how much you should be withholding.  Tax Withholding Estimator | Internal Revenue Service (irs.gov)

Returning Member
Nov 18, 2021 9:58:01 PM

So what your saying is, it’s better for me to claim 0 even though my paychecks are smaller? Does that mean I could get a refund at the end of the year?

Level 8
Nov 18, 2021 10:02:21 PM

That is what I would expect to happen.   You can check the estimator anytime to see if you are on track for a refund.

Level 15
Nov 19, 2021 5:29:53 AM

There is no more "claim zero" on a W-4 ... so simply check the SINGLE box and leave the rest of the form blank.