Not sure if enough tax is coming out of your paycheck? Grab a recent pay stub and use the free calculator below to see whether you’re on track for a refund, on track to owe, or right on target — plus the exact W-4 change to fix it. Nothing is stored, and no sign-up is required.
Are You Having the Right Amount of Tax Withheld?
Grab a recent pay stub and see whether you’re on track for a refund, on track to owe, or right on target — plus the exact W-4 change to fix it. Takes about a minute.
- ✔ No sign-up required
- ✔ No personal information stored
- ✔ 100% free
Educational estimate for federal income tax only — not tax advice.
Tell us about your pay
Use your most recent pay stub so the numbers match your real paycheck.
This is the status on your tax return — the same one you mark in Step 1 of your W-4.
Your pay before taxes and deductions — the “gross” line near the top of your stub.
How much tax is coming out?
This is the one number the whole estimate turns on — take it straight from your stub.
Look for “Federal Income Tax,” “Fed Withholding,” or “FIT” on your stub. Do not use Social Security, Medicare (FICA), or state tax — only federal income tax. If none is withheld, enter 0.
Kids under 17 you claim on your taxes. Not sure? Leave it at 0.
Add other income (optional)
Income with little or no tax withheld — a side gig, freelance work, interest, or a second job. Leave blank if none.