Things You'll Need:
- IRS Form W-4
- IRS Form 1040-X (if necessary)
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Step 1
Obtain a new IRS Form W-4 for the tax year in question. To print a copy of Form W-4 from the Internet quickly, visit the IRS' homepage at irs.gov. In the top left margin, under 'Forms and Publications,' you will see where it says 'Form W-4.' Click the hyperlink, which will take you to a PDF version of Form W-4.
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Step 2
Complete your W-4 form, making the appropriate changes where applicable. For example, on the 2009 Form W-4, if you earn less than $84,000 and you have an additional child during the year, you should add the appropriate number to the Child Tax Credit space, line G. If you become married during the year, you'll have to add a '1' to line C.
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Step 3
File the newly completed W-4 form with your employer. Once they have that form filed, the appropriate changes should be made to your paycheck withholding.
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Step 4
If you need to make an adjustment to a W-4 form for a year that has already been filed, you will need to obtain Form 1040-X, which allows you to file corrections on past tax returns with the IRS. To obtain one, visit irs.gov and click the hyperlink under Forms and Publications. Under Download Forms and Publications, select Form and Instruction Number (PDF). Once there, enter the term 1040-X into the Find search field, then push Find. Click on the link for Form 1040-X under the list titled Product Number. Use this form to make any adjustments that were omitted on the tax return in question. This will generally result in the IRS owing you more money, or you owing the IRS additional money. File the form by sending it to the IRS, with a check or money order if necessary.
