How to update my tax withholdings?

The W-4 form tells employers how much tax to withhold from your paycheck. This article explains what the W-4 is and how to submit it when you need to update your tax withholdings.

What is a W-4 form?

A W-4 form is a legal tax document that:

- Determines how much tax comes out of your paycheck

- Helps you avoid owing a lot at tax time

- Needs to be updated when your tax situation changes

- Is required for all W-2 employees

When you need to fill out a W-4

You'll need to complete a W-4 form:

- When you first become a W-2 employee with Instawork

- If you want to change your tax withholding

- When your personal or financial situation changes (marriage, new child, second job)

How to fill out your W-4

The page will display two options: Federal and State W4 (If applicable). Click on the button to start the update.

For a complete walkthrough, click the Video Icon in the right-hand corner to get a step-by-step guide to updating the form.
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Your W-4 form must be filled out correctly to be valid. A W-4 is considered invalid if it has:

- Blank or incomplete required fields

- Crossed-out, altered, or illegible information

- Missing signature

- Conflicting or unclear withholding elections (like multiple boxes checked in Step 2)

If your form is invalid, you may need to submit a new one, which could delay your payment processing.

Important things to know

- Your W-4 remains in effect until you submit a new one

- You can update your W-4 at any time if your tax situation changes

- The more accurate your W-4, the more accurate your tax withholding will be