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Tax forms can seem daunting and confusing.
But in an effort to simplify the process, the IRS has overhauled the federal income withholding form or W-4.
The change reflects the new tax code Congress approved in 2017.
Here is important information you need to know about the new W-4.
The new form has been divided into five steps and you can skip questions that don’t apply to your situation.
One major change is that it took away allowances because the new tax law eliminated personal exemptions.
Instead the form directly asks you how many children and independence you have and you have to multiply that number by the amount of the federal tax credit.
It also simplified the section about other income.
Now you just have to check a box if you work two jobs or if you have a spouse who works.
You only need to fill out a W-4 if you started a new job in 2020.
But tax specialists encourage workers to review their withholdings each year.
If too little is deducted, you may get a smaller refund or possibly owe money at tax time.
If too much is deducted, you might get a fat check at tax time.
But you are basically giving the government a no-interest loan throughout the year.
Posted 1.28.20