Sign your W-4 for your new job
Starting a new job means paperwork, and Form W-4 tells your employer how much federal income tax to withhold. Fill in the steps that apply to you, sign Step 5 and send it to payroll.
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Completing a W-4
Most people only need Steps 1 and 5.
- 1
Step 1
Your name, address, SSN and filing status.
- 2
Steps 2–4 if they apply
Multiple jobs, dependents, other income or extra withholding.
- 3
Step 5: sign
Sign and date, download and send it to your employer.
Tips
Use the IRS estimator
The IRS Tax Withholding Estimator helps with Steps 2–4 if your situation is complex.
Not sent to the IRS
Your employer keeps the W-4; it isn't filed with your tax return.
Update anytime
Life changes? Submit a new W-4 whenever you like.
Signed PDF or HR portal?
Many employers have their own onboarding portal for the W-4. If yours asks for a signed PDF by email instead, this is the quickest way to do it without printing — and your SSN never leaves your computer.
W-4 questions
Does my employer accept an e-signed W-4?+
Most do; the IRS allows electronic W-4s. Ask HR if they have a specific process.
Can I fill in the fillable IRS PDF?+
Yes. Fillable fields work, and you can type anywhere else too.
What does it cost?+
Free to try. Downloading your signed PDF costs €2.99 a month or €24.99 a year, and you can cancel anytime.