So at work there was a bulletin post that was talking about updating a new w4 form I kept everything the same though because nothing had changed. But when I got the following paystub after I updated, it said “separate” instead of “single” (options said single or married filing seperate so I picked that one because I’m single) and instead of the usual 1 under federal and 1 under California (I also have no dependents , it’s just me” it had nothing, not even a “0” under federal but it still had a “1” under California. I later realized that it unnecessary to update my w4 since I didn’t have to change anything , I read it as though it was mandatory. I emailed HR about it and they said everything looks the same except it now says seperate. What I’m asking if will my tax refund be effected later in 2021 when I do my taxes since it has nothing under federal and it says seperate now ? Thank you
Answers & Comments
Your story is WRONG. Your pay statement DOES NOT say separate because the employer CAN'T know if you will file as married filing separately. YOU don't have to know that until you actually file.
The ONLY thing the taxing authorities know about your withholding is HOW MUCH was withheld, not how that number was determined.
The rates are the same so don't stress out.
"Separate" means you were married, but you are now separated, which is a legal term. You shouldn't have put that. I would ask HR to change that if I were you.
Doesn't matter. What matters is what was withheld. If you are worried, put in a new W4, you can do so at any time.
The only purpose of a w-4 is to estimate how much you will owe in taxes when you go to file. Unless you owe a lot (more than $1000) and can't pay by 4/15, the IRS doesn't care.