Português
EspañolW-4 withholding calculator
Check whether your paycheck withholding will cover your federal tax and how much extra to withhold per paycheck on your W-4 (Step 4c).
How to useIs my withholding right?
2026 federal brackets and standard deduction. Does not include state tax or credits other than the child tax credit. An estimate, not tax advice.
Available in: 
W-4 withholding calculator: what it is for
Enter your salary, how much federal tax has been withheld so far this year and how much is withheld from each paycheck. The calculator projects your total 2026 federal income tax, compares it with what will be withheld by December and tells you how much extra to put in Step 4(c) of your W-4, or how much you are over-withholding.
It uses the 2026 brackets, the standard deduction and the child tax credit.
How to use
- Enter your salary, filing status and pay frequency.
- Enter the tax withheld so far and per paycheck.
- See the extra amount to withhold per paycheck.
When to use it
- Avoiding a tax bill in April.
- Adjusting after a raise or second job.
- Lowering withholding when you get big refunds.
Frequently asked questions
What is Step 4(c) on the W-4?
It is the line where you ask your employer to withhold an extra fixed amount from every paycheck. It is the easiest way to avoid owing tax at the end of the year.
Why would I be under-withheld?
Common reasons are having two jobs, a working spouse, side income without withholding, or a raise in the middle of the year. The W-4 for each job assumes it is your only income.
What if I am over-withheld?
You will get a refund, but you are lending money to the IRS without interest. You can lower withholding by claiming children in Step 3 or adding deductions in Step 4(b).
Is it really free?
Yes, 100% free. No sign-up, no subscription and no usage limits. All Tools123 tools are free and run right in your browser.