If you change jobs, you need to submit a W-4 form with your new employer. What seems like a very straightforward form can often result in a surprisingly large overpayment or balance due when you file your taxes the following year.
Some underlying issues with the W-4 form are:
- If you work for more than one employer, each employer withholds taxes as if they are your only employer.
- If you claim “married” on the W-4, your employer withholds taxes as if your spouse does NOT work.
To address these issues, the IRS has created a new online tool, the IRS Withholding Calculator, to help you complete the W-4 in such a way that you should come close to breaking even on your taxes.
You can check out the tool at: https://apps.irs.gov/app/withholdingcalculator/ (Java script needs to be enabled)