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W-4 Withholding Calculator 2026
Figure out the right amount of federal tax to withhold from your paycheck. Too much = big refund (you gave the IRS a free loan). Too little = you owe at tax time.
How W-4 Withholding Works
| W-4 Setting | Effect | Result at Tax Time |
|---|
| Claim 0 allowances / extra withholding | More tax withheld per check | Larger refund |
| Standard (match your situation) | Correct withholding | Break even (~$0 owed/$0 refund) |
| Claim dependents / deductions | Less tax withheld per check | May owe taxes |
2026 Withholding Tables (Single)
| Biweekly Pay | Federal Withheld | Effective Rate |
|---|
| $1,500 | ~$115 | 7.7% |
| $2,000 | ~$185 | 9.3% |
| $2,500 | ~$265 | 10.6% |
| $3,000 | ~$355 | 11.8% |
| $4,000 | ~$555 | 13.9% |
| $5,000 | ~$785 | 15.7% |
💡 When to Update Your W-4
- Got married or divorced
- Had a baby or adopted a child
- Bought a home (mortgage interest deduction)
- Got a raise or second job
- Owed taxes or got a huge refund last year