Withholding is your employer's per-paycheck estimate of your annual tax bill, based on your W-4.
FAQs
What is tax withholding?
The amount your employer holds out of each paycheck for income tax and FICA, sent to the government on your behalf.
Why is my refund so big?
Over-withholding means you gave the IRS an interest-free loan — consider updating your W-4.
Does withholding equal my tax bill?
No — it is an estimate. The final bill is settled when you file your return.
Estimate only: results use 2026 federal and state tax figures with simplified assumptions (single filer, standard deduction). Actual withholding varies by W-4, pre-tax deductions, and local taxes. Not tax advice.