W-4 Impact Simulator — Visualize Withholding Changes

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Step 2(c) is locked in Basic mode. It only applies if you have two jobs at once, or you are married and both spouses work. If you're not sure, you can read the Step 2(c) guide or upgrade to the Advanced W-4 Simulator for personalized guidance.

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Need help with Step 2(c)? Read the Step 2(c) guide

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Are you an International Student or Nonresident Alien?

This calculator is for US Residents only. NRAs have special IRS rules (e.g., cannot claim Standard Deduction, must select Single).Use the NRA Tax Wizard instead.

Reference tool for payroll scenarios.

For documented determinations that fit your onboarding cycle (pre-hire, first payment, mid-year changes), use the Compliance Engines.

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Payroll Inputs

Gross Pay (Per Paycheck)

Pay Frequency

Step 1: StatusForm W-4 (2026)

Single or Married filing separatelyMarried filing jointly or Qualifying surviving spouseHead of household

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Step 2: Multiple Jobs or Spouse Works

Step 2(c): Check this box only if you (and your spouse) have a total of two jobs. The box must also be checked on the Form W-4 for the other job.

The standard deduction and tax brackets are cut in half for each job, which raises withholding. It is accurate when the two jobs pay about the same; the more they differ, the more tax than necessary is withheld.

Step 3: Claim Dependents

Total Credits Amount ($)

If your total income will be $200,000 or less ($400,000 if married filing jointly), multiply qualifying children under 17 by $2,200 and other dependents by $500 (Form W-4 (2026), Step 3).

Step 4: Other Adjustments

4(a): Other Income (Annual)

4(b): Deductions (Annual)

The total from the Deductions Worksheet on page 4 of Form W-4 (2026), for deductions beyond the standard deduction: qualified tips and overtime, passenger vehicle loan interest, the $6,000 for age 65 or older, itemized deductions and other adjustments.

4(c): Extra Withholding (Per Pay Period)

This amount is withheld in addition to standard tax.

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Estimated Paycheck Result

Net Pay (Take Home)

$2,450.12

Gross Pay$3000.00

Federal Income Tax-$320.38

FICA (SS & Med) (Est. 7.65%)-$229.50

TaxesNet Pay

Why did my pay change?

Adding $0 in Step 3 reduces your annual tax bill directly. Adding $0 in Step 4(c) increases withholding per check.

Save this run and export it as a branded PDF with Payroll Pro. The calculator itself is free and always will be.

W-4 Simulation Compliance Record