Tax Withholding Calculator
Check if your tax withholding is correct. See your projected refund or amount owed and get recommendations for adjusting your W-4 form.
Pay Information
Pre-Tax Deductions (per paycheck)
Year-to-Date
Tax Credits
Projected Refund
Based on current withholding
Recommended Adjustment
Decrease withholding by $91/paycheck to reduce your refund.
Recommended per paycheck: $259
Tax Calculation
| Projected Gross Income | $83,000 |
| Pre-Tax Deductions | -$9,100 |
| Adjusted Gross Income | $73,900 |
| Deduction (Standard/Itemized) | -$14,600 |
| Taxable Income | $59,300 |
| Federal Tax (before credits) | $8,099 |
| Tax Credits | -$0 |
| Tax Liability | $8,099 |
Withholding Adjustment Scenarios
| Change | Per Paycheck | Year-End Result |
|---|---|---|
| -$200 | $150 | Owe $1,199 |
| -$100 | $250 | Owe $99 |
| -$50 | $300 | Refund $451 |
| +$0 | $350 | Refund $1,001 |
| +$50 | $400 | Refund $1,551 |
| +$100 | $450 | Refund $2,101 |
| +$200 | $550 | Refund $3,201 |
Tax Rates
| Marginal Tax Rate | 22% |
| Effective Tax Rate | 9.8% |
Withholding Tips
Avoid Surprises
Check your withholding mid-year, especially after life changes (marriage, new job, baby). Adjust W-4 to avoid a big bill or giving the IRS an interest-free loan.
Refund vs Paycheck
A big refund means you over-withheld. That money could have been in your paycheck earning interest. Aim for a small refund or break-even.
Safe Harbor
To avoid penalties, withhold at least 90% of this year's tax or 100% of last year's tax (110% if income over $150K). This is called "safe harbor."
Frequently Asked Questions
When to Check Withholding
- After getting married or divorced
- After having a baby
- When starting a new job
- If spouse starts/stops working
- When buying a home
- Mid-year to catch issues early
How to Adjust W-4
| Goal | W-4 Action |
|---|---|
| Increase withholding | Add amount in Step 4(c) |
| Decrease withholding | Claim dependents (Step 3) or deductions (Step 4b) |
| Two jobs/spouse works | Use Step 2 checkbox or worksheet |
Safe Harbor Rules
Avoid underpayment penalties by withholding:
- 90% of current year tax, OR
- 100% of prior year tax (110% if AGI > $150K)
Refund vs Bigger Paycheck
A $3,000 refund = $250/month you could have had in your paycheck. Consider: Would you rather have the money now or wait for a refund?