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Level 2
May 24, 2023
Question

W-4 set up

  • May 24, 2023
  • 2 replies
  • 17 views

I am a married with 1 child. My spouse and I both work. Currently my wife claims our child. I currently have a “0” for who i claim. I would like to know the best way to set up my w4. We file jointly. Of course i dont want to owe but also dont want a lot taken out. Any advice. Thanks

    2 replies

    Level 6
    May 24, 2023

    Hi there:

     

    The key to a proper W4 is completing section 2b. multiple jobs worksheet for you and your spouse.

     

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    JBedford
    Level 6
    May 24, 2023

    Hi, @Scenic11 ! If you both work, then my advice is for both of you to fill out Step 2 ("Multiple Jobs/Spouse Works") of the W-4, but for only one of you to fill out Step 3 ("Claim Dependent", which it sounds like your wife has done). Hope this helps, please let me know if this raises additional questions! 

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    Scenic11Author
    Level 2
    May 24, 2023

    Thank you

    Critter-3
    Level 15
    May 24, 2023

    Use the Tax Withholding Estimator on the IRS web site to figure out what you and your spouse  should each put on the W-4 forms that you give to your employers. It's much easier than using the worksheets on the form. It will let you adjust your withholding to get the approximate refund amount that you want.


    Tax Withholding Estimator