3686470
turbotax icon
cancel
Showing results for 
Search instead for 
Did you mean: 
Announcements
Close icon
Do you have a TurboTax Online account?

We'll help you get started or pick up where you left off.

Witholding guidance

Is there a general guideline on what amount or what percentage of your income needs to be withheld to minimize owing additional taxes each year?  Not sure if I have W4 dependent, deductions and other withholding set correctly for myself or my spouse.  We usually owe several thousand a year.

x
Do you have an Intuit account?

Do you have an Intuit account?

You'll need to sign in or create an account to connect with an expert.

1 Reply
SwapnaM
Employee Tax Expert

Witholding guidance

The most accurate way to determine the correct withholding for your specific situation is to use the IRS Tax Withholding Estimator: IRS Tax Withholding Estimator. This tool will provide a personalized recommendation based on your income, deductions, credits, and filing status. Since you and your spouse usually owe several thousand dollars, using the estimator is especially important to fine-tune your W-4s.

 

Federal withholding thresholds depend on your filing status, dependents, and the information provided on your W-4 form. For example, a single filer with no dependents will have different withholding needs compared to a married couple filing jointly.

 

Adjust your W4: 

Claim Dependents and Other Credits: Ensure you claim the right number of dependents on your W-4 form. More dependents/credits mean less tax withheld, while fewer credits mean more tax withheld.

Specify Additional Withholding: If you find that your current withholding is insufficient, you can specify an additional amount to be withheld on line 4(c) of the W-4 form.

 

Review Your Tax Situation Regularly: Major life changes like marriage, childbirth, or changes in income can affect your tax liability. Review and update your W-4 form annually or after any significant changes. 

https://turbotax.intuit.com/tax-tools/calculators/w4/ 

 

Please see https://turbotax.intuit.com/tax-tips/irs-tax-forms/what-is-a-w-4-form/L2NapDzX2 for more info. 

 

@MonicaBees Thanks for the question!!

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

Unlock tailored help options in your account.

message box icon

Get more help

Ask questions and learn more about your taxes and finances.

Post your Question