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How to fill out a W-4 at a new job

What the W-4 does, which steps to fill, when to use the IRS estimator, why not to claim exempt, and updating it later.

Quick answer

The W-4 tells your employer how much federal tax to withhold. Fill in Step 1 (your information and filing status) and sign Step 5. Steps 2 to 4 are only for multiple jobs or a working spouse, dependents, or other income and adjustments. Give it to your employer, not the IRS. If unsure, use the free IRS Tax Withholding Estimator. Only claim exempt if you owed no tax last year and expect none this year.

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Your checklist

  • Step 1: your info and filing status
  • Steps 2–4 only if they apply
  • Step 5: sign it
  • Give it to your employer
  • Use the IRS estimator if unsure
  • Don’t claim exempt unless it applies

Rather read it? Here’s the whole thing.

What it does

Form W-4 tells your employer how much federal income tax to take out of each paycheck.

The steps

  • Step 1: name, address, Social Security number and filing status.
  • Step 2: only if you have more than one job, or you’re married filing jointly and your spouse works.
  • Step 3: only if you have children or other dependents and qualify for credits.
  • Step 4: optional: other income, deductions beyond the standard deduction, or extra withholding.
  • Step 5: sign and date.

Single with one job and no dependents? You usually fill Steps 1 and 5 only.

Getting it right

Too little withheld can mean a tax bill in April; too much means smaller paychecks and a refund later. The free IRS Tax Withholding Estimator helps you get close.

“Exempt”

Only claim exempt if you had no federal tax liability last year and expect none this year. Otherwise you may owe tax plus penalties.

After you turn it in

Give it to your employer, not the IRS. Update it after big changes like marriage, a baby or a second job. Many states have their own withholding form.

Official sources, and where to look

To find your local office, search for:

  • IRS form W-4 instructions
  • [your state] withholding form

Pick sites that end in .gov. Official forms are almost always free.

Common questions

Do I have to fill out a new W-4 every year?

No. It stays in effect until you change it. Review it after life changes or a surprise tax bill. More ›

What if I have two jobs?

Use Step 2 on both W-4s, or the IRS estimator, so enough tax is withheld overall. More ›

How do I fill out a W-4 if I’m single with one job?

Usually fill in Step 1 (your info, filing status single) and sign Step 5. Skip Steps 2 to 4 unless they apply. More ›

What happens if I don’t turn in a W-4?

Your employer generally must withhold as if you’re single with no other adjustments, which may not fit your situation. More ›

Can I claim exempt on my W-4?

Only if you had no federal income tax liability last year and expect none this year. Otherwise you may owe tax and penalties. More ›

How do I get a bigger paycheck?

You can reduce withholding, but if too little is withheld you may owe at tax time. Use the IRS estimator to find a balance. More ›

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Part of:I just started my first job

Not yet reviewed by an expert. Last checked 2026-10-29. This is general help, not legal, medical or professional advice. Rules are different in every state.