Fillable W-4 (2026)
Enter your withholding preferences to produce a printable 2026 W-4. The form reflects the 2026 update: a $2,200 child tax credit step and a new exemption checkbox below Step 4(c). Your entries never leave your device.
How it works
The W-4 tells your employer how much federal income tax to withhold from each paycheck. You give it only to your employer; the IRS does not receive a copy. If you withhold too little you may owe at filing time, and if you withhold too much you get a refund. The template mirrors the 2026 IRS layout, including the expanded Step 4(b) worksheet for qualified tips and overtime.
IRS field notes
Pick the filing status that matches your return. If you have more than one job or a working spouse, use the multiple-jobs step. The 2026 form raises the child tax credit to $2,200 per qualifying child and adds a new exemption checkbox below Step 4(c) — you no longer hand write the word “Exempt”.
Multiple jobs and spouses
Step 2 applies when you hold more than one job at once or are married filing jointly with a working spouse. The most accurate route is the IRS Tax Withholding Estimator at IRS.gov/W4App. If there are only two jobs total, you may check the two-jobs box instead of using the worksheet.
Example
| Field | Example value |
|---|---|
| Filing status | Single |
| Dependents under 17 | 1 |
| Other dependents | 0 |
| Other income | $0 |
| Deductions above standard | $0 |
| Extra withholding per period | $25 |
| Exempt from withholding | No |
Important
TaxForge is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or approved by the IRS. This is a fillable template for your convenience — always compare it with the official IRS form before you file.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I update my W-4?
Update it after major life changes — marriage, a new job, a child, or a large change in income or deductions.
What if I withhold too little?
You may owe tax when you file and could face an underpayment penalty. Adding extra withholding in Step 4(c) avoids that.
Do I file the W-4 with the IRS?
No. You give it only to your employer; the IRS does not receive a copy.
What is new on the 2026 W-4?
The child tax credit increased to $2,200 per qualifying child, and a checkbox now replaces the handwritten word “Exempt” below Step 4(c). The Step 4(b) worksheet expanded for qualified tips, overtime, and certain vehicle loan interest.
Can a single filer leave Steps 2 through 4 blank?
Yes. If you have one job and no dependents or other income, complete only Step 1 and Step 5; withholding then uses the standard deduction.
How do I claim exempt?
You qualify for 2026 only if you had no federal income tax liability in 2025 and expect none in 2026. Check the new exemption box below Step 4(c) and sign.
What is the difference between W-4 allowances and the new form?
The pre-2020 form used allowances. The current W-4 uses dollar amounts and checkboxes instead, so “allowances” no longer appear on the form.