📋 W-4 Withholding Calculator 2026

Find the ideal federal withholding for your W-4. Enter salary, pay frequency, filing status, and any credits to see the per-period amount that minimizes your tax surprise.

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Inputs
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children
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Results
Recommended Per-Period Withholding
Estimated Annual Tax
Current Withholding Path
Suggested Extra Per Period
Projected Refund / Owed
Effective Tax Rate
W-4 Step 4c Suggested
Per-Period Withholding = Annual Tax ÷ Pay Periods + Step 4c Amount
Optimal: Withheld ≈ Tax Owed (minimize refund and underpayment)

The 2020 redesigned W-4 replaced withholding allowances with dollar amounts. Step 3 (claim dependents), Step 4a (other income), Step 4b (deductions), and Step 4c (extra withholding) replace the old allowance system. Underpaying by more than $1,000 or 10% of tax owed can trigger a penalty — this calculator helps you avoid both outcomes.