w-4 withholding

Forum|Forum|2 years ago
April 3, 2024
1 reply
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It is hard to estimate the additional tax holding with stock gain/loss more than expected. Is it possible to pay more tax in January for the prior year so that I won't be penalized for paying too little tax? If so, what is the process? Thanks.

Ask the Experts - MetLife IV - April 2024

Best answer by JohnB5677

You're right, trying to plan your taxes when you have capital gains is a challenge.

The easiest way for you to play it safe is if:

You pay 100% of your 2023 taxes, (110% for higher incomes).
If your previous year's adjusted gross income was more than $150,000 you will have to pay in 110% of your previous year's taxes to satisfy the "safe-harbor" requirement.

I don't know what you mean by "Is it possible to pay more tax in January for the prior year."?

But yes, if you think there will be a shortfall in your tax payment
- You can make a larger single payment by April 15th 2024'
- Or you can break it into 4 equal payments.
You can have TurboTax prepare payment vouchers.
- It sounds like you tried to prepare your W-4
- You can use the Capital Gains from 2023 for your estimate.
- If you had a loss, I would not include it.
Or you can setup an account and pay directly to the IRS Direct Pay With Bank Account

For additional information about IRS penalties please refer to: Underpayment of Estimated Tax by Individuals Penalty

JohnB5677Answer

You're right, trying to plan your taxes when you have capital gains is a challenge.

The easiest way for you to play it safe is if:

You pay 100% of your 2023 taxes, (110% for higher incomes).
If your previous year's adjusted gross income was more than $150,000 you will have to pay in 110% of your previous year's taxes to satisfy the "safe-harbor" requirement.

I don't know what you mean by "Is it possible to pay more tax in January for the prior year."?

But yes, if you think there will be a shortfall in your tax payment
- You can make a larger single payment by April 15th 2024'
- Or you can break it into 4 equal payments.
You can have TurboTax prepare payment vouchers.
- It sounds like you tried to prepare your W-4
- You can use the Capital Gains from 2023 for your estimate.
- If you had a loss, I would not include it.
Or you can setup an account and pay directly to the IRS Direct Pay With Bank Account

For additional information about IRS penalties please refer to: Underpayment of Estimated Tax by Individuals Penalty

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