what is the best way to claim on your W4 being less likely to owe Uncle Sam?

Answer 1

I claim 0. They take the most money out of your pay during the year and you get the biggest refund back that way.

Answer 2

Ideally you want your withholdings to equal your tax liability at the end of the year. You get no refund, but don't pay either. The next best is to be within $50 or so of even money. That way you get the maximum amount of money in your paycheck all year and don't wind up giving the government an interest-free loan.

If you are a single taxpayer with one job claiming the standard deduction and have no other income that is not subject to withholding you will usually even out at the end of the year by claiming Single and 2 withholding exemptions.

If you claim 1 exemption, you should probably see a refund in the region of $200 - $500 depending upon your total income.

If you claim 0 exemptions, you should see a refund of between $400 and $1,000 when you file your return.

These numbers are strictly estimates and you should not depend upon them as gospel.

The best way to calculate the proper number of withholding exemptions is to fill out the Form W-4 completely, including the 2 worksheets on page 2. This will ensure that you have the proper amount of tax withheld for YOUR tax situation without over or under withholding by more than a few dollars.

Answer 3

There are variables involved in this question that are not stated. One job two jobs part time married single .
Your best bet is to sit down and try to determine your total tax due next year and then have your HR department help you withhold the correct amount.
Example you will owe 3000 grand next year make sure that on average you withhold 60 bucks every week from all sources. Make a spread sheet up track it adjust accordingly .

HR Block website has a W 4 planner tool that could help you get started