started a new job three weeks ago, no I9 or W4, can they legally claim zero for me? What can I do?

Question

I never signed any tax forms and they took it upon themselves to claim zero, which resulted in them taking out $165.00. I know that has to be illegal for them to claim for me, How could they get away with that?

Answer 1

You're right, it is not legal for them to claim deductions for you without a signed W4. Have you talked with them? You can turn in a W4 and claim up to 9 for awhile to make up for this overpayment, then turn in a new W4 in a couple months down the road for the correct number. That way you'll be OK by year end.

Answer 2

Download and print the form from the link below, fill it out and submit it. You will have some additional withholding until the new form takes effect, but as noted above you will get back any amount that you don't actually owe as tax. Put the problem behind you, don't sweat the small stuff and focus on succeeding at your new job.

Answer 3

I don't know how it happened, but you can change it...ask your human resources office for the forms. But if you can afford it, why not keep claiming zero? It turns into a nice tax return at the end of the year.

Answer 4

It is both legal and required for your employer to withhold at single/zero if you do not submit a W-4. They are, however, required to ask you for one.

They are required to obtain a Form I-9 from you by the third day of your employment in order to prove your eligibility to work in the U.S. If they ask and you don't give them one, they are within their rights to fire you solely for that reason.