How to File a W-4 Tax Form for a Teenager
Starting your first real job means independence and money. It also means learning about saving, responsibility and taxes. The first tax form you will see is called the W-4 form. This document is a sworn statement to your employer and the government that you understand you should pay a certain amount of taxes each year. The amount of taxes you owe is dictated by the number of dependents you have. Most teens do not have any dependents. Filing "0" dependents on your W-4 will give you a greater tax return check at the end of the year.
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Instructions
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Read the entire form to be sure you understand the document. Use a pen to write "0" on lines A-H at the top of the W-4 form signifying you are someone's dependent and you will claim no exemptions.
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Fill out your name, social security number and address on the form in the appropriate boxes. Write neatly so that there is no confusion about the information you provide. Place a check mark in the box marked single unless you are married.
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3
Write a "0" on line 5 of the W-4 form to indicate you are claiming no exemptions. Write a "0" on line 6 of the form to indicate you do not want additional funds taken out of your check. Change line 6 to a higher number if you also work a cash job such as baby sitting or lawn care so that you will not owe the IRS money at the end of the year.
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Sign and date the form in the appropriate place. Make a copy of the form for your records and return the original to your employer.
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Tips & Warnings
Tax exempt status may seem attractive, but it is only possible if you earn less than $5700 in a single year. If there is any chance you will earn this much money, do not file your W-4 as tax exempt.
References
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