How can communicate effectively the need for HR to correct my Tax Withholding?

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I was recently married and filed a new W4 form (federal US tax withholdings). I checked "Married but Withhold at Single Rate" meaning that my withholdings should be the same as when I was filing as a single person.



The (only) HR/Payroll person at my employer filed this paperwork, but my taxes were withheld at the lower married rate instead of the higher single rate, like I wanted. I've sent two emails asking her to double check this, but she insists that it is not possible for a married person to withhold taxes at a single rate.



I know for a fact that she is wrong, but I've already asked her to double check twice to no avail. She is the only HR/Payroll person in the organization, so there's no one above her with experience in this area for me to appeal to. How can I handle this?







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  • How do you know if the automated payroll system allows for the configuration you seem to be demanding here?
    – JB King
    May 30 '13 at 20:31






  • 10




    That's a good point. I don't know if the payroll system allows it, but since it's a legitimate option allowed by the federal government, I'd sure hope it does. Is "the payroll system doesn't let me punch that in" a legitimate excuse for not filing an employee's tax withholdings they way that they want?
    – Hi pals
    May 30 '13 at 20:33







  • 1




    I don't know about the USA, but in the UK, employee tax matters can usually be adjusted post facto by interacting directly with the tax office, whatever an employer might have entered at the time. In which case one would let payroll do what they feel they must, and sort it out personally.
    – AakashM
    May 31 '13 at 8:37










  • If this question title were rephrased (leave out the part about how to tell her she is wrong, just say that you want to file married but withold at single rate, and the HR staff won't do it), it could be answered at Money SE. Consider migrating over there?
    – Ellie Kesselman
    Jun 1 '13 at 14:56











  • @FeralOink I don't have a question of whether or not it can be done. I know it can be done. This is about how to engage my HR rep without sounding like I think I can do her job better than she can.
    – Hi pals
    Jun 5 '13 at 14:34
















up vote
11
down vote

favorite












I was recently married and filed a new W4 form (federal US tax withholdings). I checked "Married but Withhold at Single Rate" meaning that my withholdings should be the same as when I was filing as a single person.



The (only) HR/Payroll person at my employer filed this paperwork, but my taxes were withheld at the lower married rate instead of the higher single rate, like I wanted. I've sent two emails asking her to double check this, but she insists that it is not possible for a married person to withhold taxes at a single rate.



I know for a fact that she is wrong, but I've already asked her to double check twice to no avail. She is the only HR/Payroll person in the organization, so there's no one above her with experience in this area for me to appeal to. How can I handle this?







share|improve this question






















  • How do you know if the automated payroll system allows for the configuration you seem to be demanding here?
    – JB King
    May 30 '13 at 20:31






  • 10




    That's a good point. I don't know if the payroll system allows it, but since it's a legitimate option allowed by the federal government, I'd sure hope it does. Is "the payroll system doesn't let me punch that in" a legitimate excuse for not filing an employee's tax withholdings they way that they want?
    – Hi pals
    May 30 '13 at 20:33







  • 1




    I don't know about the USA, but in the UK, employee tax matters can usually be adjusted post facto by interacting directly with the tax office, whatever an employer might have entered at the time. In which case one would let payroll do what they feel they must, and sort it out personally.
    – AakashM
    May 31 '13 at 8:37










  • If this question title were rephrased (leave out the part about how to tell her she is wrong, just say that you want to file married but withold at single rate, and the HR staff won't do it), it could be answered at Money SE. Consider migrating over there?
    – Ellie Kesselman
    Jun 1 '13 at 14:56











  • @FeralOink I don't have a question of whether or not it can be done. I know it can be done. This is about how to engage my HR rep without sounding like I think I can do her job better than she can.
    – Hi pals
    Jun 5 '13 at 14:34












up vote
11
down vote

favorite









up vote
11
down vote

favorite











I was recently married and filed a new W4 form (federal US tax withholdings). I checked "Married but Withhold at Single Rate" meaning that my withholdings should be the same as when I was filing as a single person.



The (only) HR/Payroll person at my employer filed this paperwork, but my taxes were withheld at the lower married rate instead of the higher single rate, like I wanted. I've sent two emails asking her to double check this, but she insists that it is not possible for a married person to withhold taxes at a single rate.



I know for a fact that she is wrong, but I've already asked her to double check twice to no avail. She is the only HR/Payroll person in the organization, so there's no one above her with experience in this area for me to appeal to. How can I handle this?







share|improve this question














I was recently married and filed a new W4 form (federal US tax withholdings). I checked "Married but Withhold at Single Rate" meaning that my withholdings should be the same as when I was filing as a single person.



The (only) HR/Payroll person at my employer filed this paperwork, but my taxes were withheld at the lower married rate instead of the higher single rate, like I wanted. I've sent two emails asking her to double check this, but she insists that it is not possible for a married person to withhold taxes at a single rate.



I know for a fact that she is wrong, but I've already asked her to double check twice to no avail. She is the only HR/Payroll person in the organization, so there's no one above her with experience in this area for me to appeal to. How can I handle this?









share|improve this question













share|improve this question




share|improve this question








edited Jun 6 '13 at 13:43









IDrinkandIKnowThings

43.9k1398188




43.9k1398188










asked May 30 '13 at 20:19









Hi pals

5622719




5622719











  • How do you know if the automated payroll system allows for the configuration you seem to be demanding here?
    – JB King
    May 30 '13 at 20:31






  • 10




    That's a good point. I don't know if the payroll system allows it, but since it's a legitimate option allowed by the federal government, I'd sure hope it does. Is "the payroll system doesn't let me punch that in" a legitimate excuse for not filing an employee's tax withholdings they way that they want?
    – Hi pals
    May 30 '13 at 20:33







  • 1




    I don't know about the USA, but in the UK, employee tax matters can usually be adjusted post facto by interacting directly with the tax office, whatever an employer might have entered at the time. In which case one would let payroll do what they feel they must, and sort it out personally.
    – AakashM
    May 31 '13 at 8:37










  • If this question title were rephrased (leave out the part about how to tell her she is wrong, just say that you want to file married but withold at single rate, and the HR staff won't do it), it could be answered at Money SE. Consider migrating over there?
    – Ellie Kesselman
    Jun 1 '13 at 14:56











  • @FeralOink I don't have a question of whether or not it can be done. I know it can be done. This is about how to engage my HR rep without sounding like I think I can do her job better than she can.
    – Hi pals
    Jun 5 '13 at 14:34
















  • How do you know if the automated payroll system allows for the configuration you seem to be demanding here?
    – JB King
    May 30 '13 at 20:31






  • 10




    That's a good point. I don't know if the payroll system allows it, but since it's a legitimate option allowed by the federal government, I'd sure hope it does. Is "the payroll system doesn't let me punch that in" a legitimate excuse for not filing an employee's tax withholdings they way that they want?
    – Hi pals
    May 30 '13 at 20:33







  • 1




    I don't know about the USA, but in the UK, employee tax matters can usually be adjusted post facto by interacting directly with the tax office, whatever an employer might have entered at the time. In which case one would let payroll do what they feel they must, and sort it out personally.
    – AakashM
    May 31 '13 at 8:37










  • If this question title were rephrased (leave out the part about how to tell her she is wrong, just say that you want to file married but withold at single rate, and the HR staff won't do it), it could be answered at Money SE. Consider migrating over there?
    – Ellie Kesselman
    Jun 1 '13 at 14:56











  • @FeralOink I don't have a question of whether or not it can be done. I know it can be done. This is about how to engage my HR rep without sounding like I think I can do her job better than she can.
    – Hi pals
    Jun 5 '13 at 14:34















How do you know if the automated payroll system allows for the configuration you seem to be demanding here?
– JB King
May 30 '13 at 20:31




How do you know if the automated payroll system allows for the configuration you seem to be demanding here?
– JB King
May 30 '13 at 20:31




10




10




That's a good point. I don't know if the payroll system allows it, but since it's a legitimate option allowed by the federal government, I'd sure hope it does. Is "the payroll system doesn't let me punch that in" a legitimate excuse for not filing an employee's tax withholdings they way that they want?
– Hi pals
May 30 '13 at 20:33





That's a good point. I don't know if the payroll system allows it, but since it's a legitimate option allowed by the federal government, I'd sure hope it does. Is "the payroll system doesn't let me punch that in" a legitimate excuse for not filing an employee's tax withholdings they way that they want?
– Hi pals
May 30 '13 at 20:33





1




1




I don't know about the USA, but in the UK, employee tax matters can usually be adjusted post facto by interacting directly with the tax office, whatever an employer might have entered at the time. In which case one would let payroll do what they feel they must, and sort it out personally.
– AakashM
May 31 '13 at 8:37




I don't know about the USA, but in the UK, employee tax matters can usually be adjusted post facto by interacting directly with the tax office, whatever an employer might have entered at the time. In which case one would let payroll do what they feel they must, and sort it out personally.
– AakashM
May 31 '13 at 8:37












If this question title were rephrased (leave out the part about how to tell her she is wrong, just say that you want to file married but withold at single rate, and the HR staff won't do it), it could be answered at Money SE. Consider migrating over there?
– Ellie Kesselman
Jun 1 '13 at 14:56





If this question title were rephrased (leave out the part about how to tell her she is wrong, just say that you want to file married but withold at single rate, and the HR staff won't do it), it could be answered at Money SE. Consider migrating over there?
– Ellie Kesselman
Jun 1 '13 at 14:56













@FeralOink I don't have a question of whether or not it can be done. I know it can be done. This is about how to engage my HR rep without sounding like I think I can do her job better than she can.
– Hi pals
Jun 5 '13 at 14:34




@FeralOink I don't have a question of whether or not it can be done. I know it can be done. This is about how to engage my HR rep without sounding like I think I can do her job better than she can.
– Hi pals
Jun 5 '13 at 14:34










4 Answers
4






active

oldest

votes

















up vote
21
down vote













First, she may mean to say that the software you use will not allow a married person to withhold at the single rate. Taxes seem incredibly complicated to people who aren't exposed to them on a regular basis, and many take a "black magic" approach to what their payroll system provides.



An employer must withhold the amounts as detailed in IRS Publication 15 (there are several methods for calculating, so the exact number might be different depending on the method, but close).



An employer may withhold more at an employee's request (as you have done be electing to use the unmarried tables in calculating your withholding). You can also specify less exemptions, and/or a specific dollar amount to withhold in addition to the calculated amounts. In any case, if you request they withhold more, they have to do so.



They can not withhold less unless you claim specific exemption, which only applies to special cases, and not yours.



Breaking out the specific laws that require your employer to withhold at the higher rates when you request them to probably isn't the best way to approach this problem. I would start by asking her why she believes you must use the married rate, and see if you can clear up any minor confusion. If that doesn't work, you might have to get someone involved who does know payroll tax law to explain it to her.






share|improve this answer



























    up vote
    4
    down vote













    As a general rule, you think you are right, she thinks she is right so it's word against word. But then the position comes in play. You are the developer, you aren't supposed to be an authority in legal/tax things. She is HR so she thinks she must know better because she works with it every day.



    Provide some evidence. This must not be an opinion from internet forum. This must be the source text of the legal act or the expertise of tax specialist.



    Now she reacts the same way as you if she come to you and say you how to configure a server. You need a bit more than your words only to prove to be right.






    share|improve this answer
















    • 1




      Its usually a checkbox right on the w4, which is a government form. If that's not enough I don't know what is.
      – Andy
      Jun 5 '13 at 0:44

















    up vote
    4
    down vote













    The need to file as "Married but withholding at the single rate" is a recognized payroll standard:




    For newlyweds upon returning to work after their honeymoon: If you
    and your spouse both work and earn a similar amount of money, and you
    don't own a home, you should each file a new Form W-4 with your
    employer claiming "Married but withhold at the higher single rate"...




    The person who asked the question added this clarification:




    I don't have a question of whether or not it can be done. I know it
    can be done. This is about how to engage my HR rep without sounding
    like I think I can do her job better than she can.




    You already attempted to "engage your HR rep". You are an employee. It is your right to declare the filing status that is most appropriate for your needs. Filing status is selected on a W-4 form, which is published by the Internal Revenue Service for the United States Government.



    Suggestions



    1. Does your HR rep have a supervisor? You could speak with that person.

    2. You could talk with your own manager. It is part of his job to help you with such matters, once you have gone through proper channels.

    3. If there is a more senior person at the company, who is "in the know", you could casually ask what he or she would suggest, without going into particulars of your withholding particulars. This should be done as a last resort, as people have a tendency to gossip. Your boss, and the HR rep's supervisor, will not gossip about you.

    If you pursue options 1 or 2



    • You sent two emails, and received two responses from your HR rep. Print out the emails, and responses, including the time and date stamps.

    • Print and complete a new W-4 form with the appropriate box, "Married Filed as Single" checked.

    • Gather up several pay periods of paychecks, which indicate what was withheld prior to your requests, and after your requests for revised withholding status. There will be no change, as the HR rep did nothing to help you.

    • Put it all in a folder, tabbed and labelled, so that you can get to each section easily.

    Do this, else you will continue to be at the mercy of your HR rep's ignorance with you W-4, and potentially other matters that are of greater importance e.g. pre-natal care for your wife if you have major medical, or your bonus/ profit sharing distribution.



    Also consider the fact that you may be penalized by the IRS for underpaying your income taxes, due to inadequate withholding. This IRS guide specifically describes the scenario which pertains to your situation, that of filing jointly rather than separately, given the amount of income earned by the employee and spouse.






    share|improve this answer



























      up vote
      -1
      down vote













      “The bureaucratic mentality is the only constant in the universe." - Dr. Leonard McCoy (Star Trek)



      She believes she is right because the software accepted her input. That is the limit of her understanding. Getting mad at her is like getting mad at your cat for not balancing your checkbook.



      Ask her about an automated savings plan (diverting part of your pay to a savings account) and work it that way. That way you segregate your funds (which is your root intent, is it not?) and you will use the savings account to hold the money if you need to make extra payments. I assume you or your wife has some 1099 income and you're trying to cover the tax bill? Just make your quarterly 1040-ES payments from the savings account and don't worry about your HR person any more.



      Life is too short to suffer fools. Sidestep stupidity whenever possible. In the long run, you'll be happier.






      share|improve this answer




















      • Actually no. No 1099. Even at a married 0, we still need additional with holdings because of the level of income we are at.
        – Hi pals
        Jun 5 '13 at 10:53






      • 1




        @Just a guy - Well, heck, I should be charging you for this advice, then. :)
        – Wesley Long
        Jun 5 '13 at 16:14






      • 1




        haha! It's not that much, but two earners filing jointly breaks the US tax tables pretty quickly. They were made at a time when most women didn't work, and they also expect that you each make roughly the same amount. If you don't fit that mold, all kinds of crazy nonsense happens!
        – Hi pals
        Jun 5 '13 at 16:24










      • He shouldn't need to do this. The situation is ridiculous! Clever thinking though, @WesleyLong Also, no one should file quarterly ES unless they need to. Employee tax returns are much easier, less chance of getting audited etc. If one is self-employed, or a contractor paid by 1099, then of course, 1040-ES is worth it!
        – Ellie Kesselman
        Jun 6 '13 at 10:36






      • 1




        Mr. Oink, you are correct. I was building on an assumption I had made that turned out to be incorrect. I assumed this because I have colleagues that do exactly this.
        – Wesley Long
        Jun 10 '13 at 20:35










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      4 Answers
      4






      active

      oldest

      votes








      4 Answers
      4






      active

      oldest

      votes









      active

      oldest

      votes






      active

      oldest

      votes








      up vote
      21
      down vote













      First, she may mean to say that the software you use will not allow a married person to withhold at the single rate. Taxes seem incredibly complicated to people who aren't exposed to them on a regular basis, and many take a "black magic" approach to what their payroll system provides.



      An employer must withhold the amounts as detailed in IRS Publication 15 (there are several methods for calculating, so the exact number might be different depending on the method, but close).



      An employer may withhold more at an employee's request (as you have done be electing to use the unmarried tables in calculating your withholding). You can also specify less exemptions, and/or a specific dollar amount to withhold in addition to the calculated amounts. In any case, if you request they withhold more, they have to do so.



      They can not withhold less unless you claim specific exemption, which only applies to special cases, and not yours.



      Breaking out the specific laws that require your employer to withhold at the higher rates when you request them to probably isn't the best way to approach this problem. I would start by asking her why she believes you must use the married rate, and see if you can clear up any minor confusion. If that doesn't work, you might have to get someone involved who does know payroll tax law to explain it to her.






      share|improve this answer
























        up vote
        21
        down vote













        First, she may mean to say that the software you use will not allow a married person to withhold at the single rate. Taxes seem incredibly complicated to people who aren't exposed to them on a regular basis, and many take a "black magic" approach to what their payroll system provides.



        An employer must withhold the amounts as detailed in IRS Publication 15 (there are several methods for calculating, so the exact number might be different depending on the method, but close).



        An employer may withhold more at an employee's request (as you have done be electing to use the unmarried tables in calculating your withholding). You can also specify less exemptions, and/or a specific dollar amount to withhold in addition to the calculated amounts. In any case, if you request they withhold more, they have to do so.



        They can not withhold less unless you claim specific exemption, which only applies to special cases, and not yours.



        Breaking out the specific laws that require your employer to withhold at the higher rates when you request them to probably isn't the best way to approach this problem. I would start by asking her why she believes you must use the married rate, and see if you can clear up any minor confusion. If that doesn't work, you might have to get someone involved who does know payroll tax law to explain it to her.






        share|improve this answer






















          up vote
          21
          down vote










          up vote
          21
          down vote









          First, she may mean to say that the software you use will not allow a married person to withhold at the single rate. Taxes seem incredibly complicated to people who aren't exposed to them on a regular basis, and many take a "black magic" approach to what their payroll system provides.



          An employer must withhold the amounts as detailed in IRS Publication 15 (there are several methods for calculating, so the exact number might be different depending on the method, but close).



          An employer may withhold more at an employee's request (as you have done be electing to use the unmarried tables in calculating your withholding). You can also specify less exemptions, and/or a specific dollar amount to withhold in addition to the calculated amounts. In any case, if you request they withhold more, they have to do so.



          They can not withhold less unless you claim specific exemption, which only applies to special cases, and not yours.



          Breaking out the specific laws that require your employer to withhold at the higher rates when you request them to probably isn't the best way to approach this problem. I would start by asking her why she believes you must use the married rate, and see if you can clear up any minor confusion. If that doesn't work, you might have to get someone involved who does know payroll tax law to explain it to her.






          share|improve this answer












          First, she may mean to say that the software you use will not allow a married person to withhold at the single rate. Taxes seem incredibly complicated to people who aren't exposed to them on a regular basis, and many take a "black magic" approach to what their payroll system provides.



          An employer must withhold the amounts as detailed in IRS Publication 15 (there are several methods for calculating, so the exact number might be different depending on the method, but close).



          An employer may withhold more at an employee's request (as you have done be electing to use the unmarried tables in calculating your withholding). You can also specify less exemptions, and/or a specific dollar amount to withhold in addition to the calculated amounts. In any case, if you request they withhold more, they have to do so.



          They can not withhold less unless you claim specific exemption, which only applies to special cases, and not yours.



          Breaking out the specific laws that require your employer to withhold at the higher rates when you request them to probably isn't the best way to approach this problem. I would start by asking her why she believes you must use the married rate, and see if you can clear up any minor confusion. If that doesn't work, you might have to get someone involved who does know payroll tax law to explain it to her.







          share|improve this answer












          share|improve this answer



          share|improve this answer










          answered May 30 '13 at 20:36









          Chris S

          31015




          31015






















              up vote
              4
              down vote













              As a general rule, you think you are right, she thinks she is right so it's word against word. But then the position comes in play. You are the developer, you aren't supposed to be an authority in legal/tax things. She is HR so she thinks she must know better because she works with it every day.



              Provide some evidence. This must not be an opinion from internet forum. This must be the source text of the legal act or the expertise of tax specialist.



              Now she reacts the same way as you if she come to you and say you how to configure a server. You need a bit more than your words only to prove to be right.






              share|improve this answer
















              • 1




                Its usually a checkbox right on the w4, which is a government form. If that's not enough I don't know what is.
                – Andy
                Jun 5 '13 at 0:44














              up vote
              4
              down vote













              As a general rule, you think you are right, she thinks she is right so it's word against word. But then the position comes in play. You are the developer, you aren't supposed to be an authority in legal/tax things. She is HR so she thinks she must know better because she works with it every day.



              Provide some evidence. This must not be an opinion from internet forum. This must be the source text of the legal act or the expertise of tax specialist.



              Now she reacts the same way as you if she come to you and say you how to configure a server. You need a bit more than your words only to prove to be right.






              share|improve this answer
















              • 1




                Its usually a checkbox right on the w4, which is a government form. If that's not enough I don't know what is.
                – Andy
                Jun 5 '13 at 0:44












              up vote
              4
              down vote










              up vote
              4
              down vote









              As a general rule, you think you are right, she thinks she is right so it's word against word. But then the position comes in play. You are the developer, you aren't supposed to be an authority in legal/tax things. She is HR so she thinks she must know better because she works with it every day.



              Provide some evidence. This must not be an opinion from internet forum. This must be the source text of the legal act or the expertise of tax specialist.



              Now she reacts the same way as you if she come to you and say you how to configure a server. You need a bit more than your words only to prove to be right.






              share|improve this answer












              As a general rule, you think you are right, she thinks she is right so it's word against word. But then the position comes in play. You are the developer, you aren't supposed to be an authority in legal/tax things. She is HR so she thinks she must know better because she works with it every day.



              Provide some evidence. This must not be an opinion from internet forum. This must be the source text of the legal act or the expertise of tax specialist.



              Now she reacts the same way as you if she come to you and say you how to configure a server. You need a bit more than your words only to prove to be right.







              share|improve this answer












              share|improve this answer



              share|improve this answer










              answered May 31 '13 at 5:35







              user1023














              • 1




                Its usually a checkbox right on the w4, which is a government form. If that's not enough I don't know what is.
                – Andy
                Jun 5 '13 at 0:44












              • 1




                Its usually a checkbox right on the w4, which is a government form. If that's not enough I don't know what is.
                – Andy
                Jun 5 '13 at 0:44







              1




              1




              Its usually a checkbox right on the w4, which is a government form. If that's not enough I don't know what is.
              – Andy
              Jun 5 '13 at 0:44




              Its usually a checkbox right on the w4, which is a government form. If that's not enough I don't know what is.
              – Andy
              Jun 5 '13 at 0:44










              up vote
              4
              down vote













              The need to file as "Married but withholding at the single rate" is a recognized payroll standard:




              For newlyweds upon returning to work after their honeymoon: If you
              and your spouse both work and earn a similar amount of money, and you
              don't own a home, you should each file a new Form W-4 with your
              employer claiming "Married but withhold at the higher single rate"...




              The person who asked the question added this clarification:




              I don't have a question of whether or not it can be done. I know it
              can be done. This is about how to engage my HR rep without sounding
              like I think I can do her job better than she can.




              You already attempted to "engage your HR rep". You are an employee. It is your right to declare the filing status that is most appropriate for your needs. Filing status is selected on a W-4 form, which is published by the Internal Revenue Service for the United States Government.



              Suggestions



              1. Does your HR rep have a supervisor? You could speak with that person.

              2. You could talk with your own manager. It is part of his job to help you with such matters, once you have gone through proper channels.

              3. If there is a more senior person at the company, who is "in the know", you could casually ask what he or she would suggest, without going into particulars of your withholding particulars. This should be done as a last resort, as people have a tendency to gossip. Your boss, and the HR rep's supervisor, will not gossip about you.

              If you pursue options 1 or 2



              • You sent two emails, and received two responses from your HR rep. Print out the emails, and responses, including the time and date stamps.

              • Print and complete a new W-4 form with the appropriate box, "Married Filed as Single" checked.

              • Gather up several pay periods of paychecks, which indicate what was withheld prior to your requests, and after your requests for revised withholding status. There will be no change, as the HR rep did nothing to help you.

              • Put it all in a folder, tabbed and labelled, so that you can get to each section easily.

              Do this, else you will continue to be at the mercy of your HR rep's ignorance with you W-4, and potentially other matters that are of greater importance e.g. pre-natal care for your wife if you have major medical, or your bonus/ profit sharing distribution.



              Also consider the fact that you may be penalized by the IRS for underpaying your income taxes, due to inadequate withholding. This IRS guide specifically describes the scenario which pertains to your situation, that of filing jointly rather than separately, given the amount of income earned by the employee and spouse.






              share|improve this answer
























                up vote
                4
                down vote













                The need to file as "Married but withholding at the single rate" is a recognized payroll standard:




                For newlyweds upon returning to work after their honeymoon: If you
                and your spouse both work and earn a similar amount of money, and you
                don't own a home, you should each file a new Form W-4 with your
                employer claiming "Married but withhold at the higher single rate"...




                The person who asked the question added this clarification:




                I don't have a question of whether or not it can be done. I know it
                can be done. This is about how to engage my HR rep without sounding
                like I think I can do her job better than she can.




                You already attempted to "engage your HR rep". You are an employee. It is your right to declare the filing status that is most appropriate for your needs. Filing status is selected on a W-4 form, which is published by the Internal Revenue Service for the United States Government.



                Suggestions



                1. Does your HR rep have a supervisor? You could speak with that person.

                2. You could talk with your own manager. It is part of his job to help you with such matters, once you have gone through proper channels.

                3. If there is a more senior person at the company, who is "in the know", you could casually ask what he or she would suggest, without going into particulars of your withholding particulars. This should be done as a last resort, as people have a tendency to gossip. Your boss, and the HR rep's supervisor, will not gossip about you.

                If you pursue options 1 or 2



                • You sent two emails, and received two responses from your HR rep. Print out the emails, and responses, including the time and date stamps.

                • Print and complete a new W-4 form with the appropriate box, "Married Filed as Single" checked.

                • Gather up several pay periods of paychecks, which indicate what was withheld prior to your requests, and after your requests for revised withholding status. There will be no change, as the HR rep did nothing to help you.

                • Put it all in a folder, tabbed and labelled, so that you can get to each section easily.

                Do this, else you will continue to be at the mercy of your HR rep's ignorance with you W-4, and potentially other matters that are of greater importance e.g. pre-natal care for your wife if you have major medical, or your bonus/ profit sharing distribution.



                Also consider the fact that you may be penalized by the IRS for underpaying your income taxes, due to inadequate withholding. This IRS guide specifically describes the scenario which pertains to your situation, that of filing jointly rather than separately, given the amount of income earned by the employee and spouse.






                share|improve this answer






















                  up vote
                  4
                  down vote










                  up vote
                  4
                  down vote









                  The need to file as "Married but withholding at the single rate" is a recognized payroll standard:




                  For newlyweds upon returning to work after their honeymoon: If you
                  and your spouse both work and earn a similar amount of money, and you
                  don't own a home, you should each file a new Form W-4 with your
                  employer claiming "Married but withhold at the higher single rate"...




                  The person who asked the question added this clarification:




                  I don't have a question of whether or not it can be done. I know it
                  can be done. This is about how to engage my HR rep without sounding
                  like I think I can do her job better than she can.




                  You already attempted to "engage your HR rep". You are an employee. It is your right to declare the filing status that is most appropriate for your needs. Filing status is selected on a W-4 form, which is published by the Internal Revenue Service for the United States Government.



                  Suggestions



                  1. Does your HR rep have a supervisor? You could speak with that person.

                  2. You could talk with your own manager. It is part of his job to help you with such matters, once you have gone through proper channels.

                  3. If there is a more senior person at the company, who is "in the know", you could casually ask what he or she would suggest, without going into particulars of your withholding particulars. This should be done as a last resort, as people have a tendency to gossip. Your boss, and the HR rep's supervisor, will not gossip about you.

                  If you pursue options 1 or 2



                  • You sent two emails, and received two responses from your HR rep. Print out the emails, and responses, including the time and date stamps.

                  • Print and complete a new W-4 form with the appropriate box, "Married Filed as Single" checked.

                  • Gather up several pay periods of paychecks, which indicate what was withheld prior to your requests, and after your requests for revised withholding status. There will be no change, as the HR rep did nothing to help you.

                  • Put it all in a folder, tabbed and labelled, so that you can get to each section easily.

                  Do this, else you will continue to be at the mercy of your HR rep's ignorance with you W-4, and potentially other matters that are of greater importance e.g. pre-natal care for your wife if you have major medical, or your bonus/ profit sharing distribution.



                  Also consider the fact that you may be penalized by the IRS for underpaying your income taxes, due to inadequate withholding. This IRS guide specifically describes the scenario which pertains to your situation, that of filing jointly rather than separately, given the amount of income earned by the employee and spouse.






                  share|improve this answer












                  The need to file as "Married but withholding at the single rate" is a recognized payroll standard:




                  For newlyweds upon returning to work after their honeymoon: If you
                  and your spouse both work and earn a similar amount of money, and you
                  don't own a home, you should each file a new Form W-4 with your
                  employer claiming "Married but withhold at the higher single rate"...




                  The person who asked the question added this clarification:




                  I don't have a question of whether or not it can be done. I know it
                  can be done. This is about how to engage my HR rep without sounding
                  like I think I can do her job better than she can.




                  You already attempted to "engage your HR rep". You are an employee. It is your right to declare the filing status that is most appropriate for your needs. Filing status is selected on a W-4 form, which is published by the Internal Revenue Service for the United States Government.



                  Suggestions



                  1. Does your HR rep have a supervisor? You could speak with that person.

                  2. You could talk with your own manager. It is part of his job to help you with such matters, once you have gone through proper channels.

                  3. If there is a more senior person at the company, who is "in the know", you could casually ask what he or she would suggest, without going into particulars of your withholding particulars. This should be done as a last resort, as people have a tendency to gossip. Your boss, and the HR rep's supervisor, will not gossip about you.

                  If you pursue options 1 or 2



                  • You sent two emails, and received two responses from your HR rep. Print out the emails, and responses, including the time and date stamps.

                  • Print and complete a new W-4 form with the appropriate box, "Married Filed as Single" checked.

                  • Gather up several pay periods of paychecks, which indicate what was withheld prior to your requests, and after your requests for revised withholding status. There will be no change, as the HR rep did nothing to help you.

                  • Put it all in a folder, tabbed and labelled, so that you can get to each section easily.

                  Do this, else you will continue to be at the mercy of your HR rep's ignorance with you W-4, and potentially other matters that are of greater importance e.g. pre-natal care for your wife if you have major medical, or your bonus/ profit sharing distribution.



                  Also consider the fact that you may be penalized by the IRS for underpaying your income taxes, due to inadequate withholding. This IRS guide specifically describes the scenario which pertains to your situation, that of filing jointly rather than separately, given the amount of income earned by the employee and spouse.







                  share|improve this answer












                  share|improve this answer



                  share|improve this answer










                  answered Jun 6 '13 at 11:31









                  Ellie Kesselman

                  317515




                  317515




















                      up vote
                      -1
                      down vote













                      “The bureaucratic mentality is the only constant in the universe." - Dr. Leonard McCoy (Star Trek)



                      She believes she is right because the software accepted her input. That is the limit of her understanding. Getting mad at her is like getting mad at your cat for not balancing your checkbook.



                      Ask her about an automated savings plan (diverting part of your pay to a savings account) and work it that way. That way you segregate your funds (which is your root intent, is it not?) and you will use the savings account to hold the money if you need to make extra payments. I assume you or your wife has some 1099 income and you're trying to cover the tax bill? Just make your quarterly 1040-ES payments from the savings account and don't worry about your HR person any more.



                      Life is too short to suffer fools. Sidestep stupidity whenever possible. In the long run, you'll be happier.






                      share|improve this answer




















                      • Actually no. No 1099. Even at a married 0, we still need additional with holdings because of the level of income we are at.
                        – Hi pals
                        Jun 5 '13 at 10:53






                      • 1




                        @Just a guy - Well, heck, I should be charging you for this advice, then. :)
                        – Wesley Long
                        Jun 5 '13 at 16:14






                      • 1




                        haha! It's not that much, but two earners filing jointly breaks the US tax tables pretty quickly. They were made at a time when most women didn't work, and they also expect that you each make roughly the same amount. If you don't fit that mold, all kinds of crazy nonsense happens!
                        – Hi pals
                        Jun 5 '13 at 16:24










                      • He shouldn't need to do this. The situation is ridiculous! Clever thinking though, @WesleyLong Also, no one should file quarterly ES unless they need to. Employee tax returns are much easier, less chance of getting audited etc. If one is self-employed, or a contractor paid by 1099, then of course, 1040-ES is worth it!
                        – Ellie Kesselman
                        Jun 6 '13 at 10:36






                      • 1




                        Mr. Oink, you are correct. I was building on an assumption I had made that turned out to be incorrect. I assumed this because I have colleagues that do exactly this.
                        – Wesley Long
                        Jun 10 '13 at 20:35














                      up vote
                      -1
                      down vote













                      “The bureaucratic mentality is the only constant in the universe." - Dr. Leonard McCoy (Star Trek)



                      She believes she is right because the software accepted her input. That is the limit of her understanding. Getting mad at her is like getting mad at your cat for not balancing your checkbook.



                      Ask her about an automated savings plan (diverting part of your pay to a savings account) and work it that way. That way you segregate your funds (which is your root intent, is it not?) and you will use the savings account to hold the money if you need to make extra payments. I assume you or your wife has some 1099 income and you're trying to cover the tax bill? Just make your quarterly 1040-ES payments from the savings account and don't worry about your HR person any more.



                      Life is too short to suffer fools. Sidestep stupidity whenever possible. In the long run, you'll be happier.






                      share|improve this answer




















                      • Actually no. No 1099. Even at a married 0, we still need additional with holdings because of the level of income we are at.
                        – Hi pals
                        Jun 5 '13 at 10:53






                      • 1




                        @Just a guy - Well, heck, I should be charging you for this advice, then. :)
                        – Wesley Long
                        Jun 5 '13 at 16:14






                      • 1




                        haha! It's not that much, but two earners filing jointly breaks the US tax tables pretty quickly. They were made at a time when most women didn't work, and they also expect that you each make roughly the same amount. If you don't fit that mold, all kinds of crazy nonsense happens!
                        – Hi pals
                        Jun 5 '13 at 16:24










                      • He shouldn't need to do this. The situation is ridiculous! Clever thinking though, @WesleyLong Also, no one should file quarterly ES unless they need to. Employee tax returns are much easier, less chance of getting audited etc. If one is self-employed, or a contractor paid by 1099, then of course, 1040-ES is worth it!
                        – Ellie Kesselman
                        Jun 6 '13 at 10:36






                      • 1




                        Mr. Oink, you are correct. I was building on an assumption I had made that turned out to be incorrect. I assumed this because I have colleagues that do exactly this.
                        – Wesley Long
                        Jun 10 '13 at 20:35












                      up vote
                      -1
                      down vote










                      up vote
                      -1
                      down vote









                      “The bureaucratic mentality is the only constant in the universe." - Dr. Leonard McCoy (Star Trek)



                      She believes she is right because the software accepted her input. That is the limit of her understanding. Getting mad at her is like getting mad at your cat for not balancing your checkbook.



                      Ask her about an automated savings plan (diverting part of your pay to a savings account) and work it that way. That way you segregate your funds (which is your root intent, is it not?) and you will use the savings account to hold the money if you need to make extra payments. I assume you or your wife has some 1099 income and you're trying to cover the tax bill? Just make your quarterly 1040-ES payments from the savings account and don't worry about your HR person any more.



                      Life is too short to suffer fools. Sidestep stupidity whenever possible. In the long run, you'll be happier.






                      share|improve this answer












                      “The bureaucratic mentality is the only constant in the universe." - Dr. Leonard McCoy (Star Trek)



                      She believes she is right because the software accepted her input. That is the limit of her understanding. Getting mad at her is like getting mad at your cat for not balancing your checkbook.



                      Ask her about an automated savings plan (diverting part of your pay to a savings account) and work it that way. That way you segregate your funds (which is your root intent, is it not?) and you will use the savings account to hold the money if you need to make extra payments. I assume you or your wife has some 1099 income and you're trying to cover the tax bill? Just make your quarterly 1040-ES payments from the savings account and don't worry about your HR person any more.



                      Life is too short to suffer fools. Sidestep stupidity whenever possible. In the long run, you'll be happier.







                      share|improve this answer












                      share|improve this answer



                      share|improve this answer










                      answered Jun 5 '13 at 3:50









                      Wesley Long

                      45.1k15100161




                      45.1k15100161











                      • Actually no. No 1099. Even at a married 0, we still need additional with holdings because of the level of income we are at.
                        – Hi pals
                        Jun 5 '13 at 10:53






                      • 1




                        @Just a guy - Well, heck, I should be charging you for this advice, then. :)
                        – Wesley Long
                        Jun 5 '13 at 16:14






                      • 1




                        haha! It's not that much, but two earners filing jointly breaks the US tax tables pretty quickly. They were made at a time when most women didn't work, and they also expect that you each make roughly the same amount. If you don't fit that mold, all kinds of crazy nonsense happens!
                        – Hi pals
                        Jun 5 '13 at 16:24










                      • He shouldn't need to do this. The situation is ridiculous! Clever thinking though, @WesleyLong Also, no one should file quarterly ES unless they need to. Employee tax returns are much easier, less chance of getting audited etc. If one is self-employed, or a contractor paid by 1099, then of course, 1040-ES is worth it!
                        – Ellie Kesselman
                        Jun 6 '13 at 10:36






                      • 1




                        Mr. Oink, you are correct. I was building on an assumption I had made that turned out to be incorrect. I assumed this because I have colleagues that do exactly this.
                        – Wesley Long
                        Jun 10 '13 at 20:35
















                      • Actually no. No 1099. Even at a married 0, we still need additional with holdings because of the level of income we are at.
                        – Hi pals
                        Jun 5 '13 at 10:53






                      • 1




                        @Just a guy - Well, heck, I should be charging you for this advice, then. :)
                        – Wesley Long
                        Jun 5 '13 at 16:14






                      • 1




                        haha! It's not that much, but two earners filing jointly breaks the US tax tables pretty quickly. They were made at a time when most women didn't work, and they also expect that you each make roughly the same amount. If you don't fit that mold, all kinds of crazy nonsense happens!
                        – Hi pals
                        Jun 5 '13 at 16:24










                      • He shouldn't need to do this. The situation is ridiculous! Clever thinking though, @WesleyLong Also, no one should file quarterly ES unless they need to. Employee tax returns are much easier, less chance of getting audited etc. If one is self-employed, or a contractor paid by 1099, then of course, 1040-ES is worth it!
                        – Ellie Kesselman
                        Jun 6 '13 at 10:36






                      • 1




                        Mr. Oink, you are correct. I was building on an assumption I had made that turned out to be incorrect. I assumed this because I have colleagues that do exactly this.
                        – Wesley Long
                        Jun 10 '13 at 20:35















                      Actually no. No 1099. Even at a married 0, we still need additional with holdings because of the level of income we are at.
                      – Hi pals
                      Jun 5 '13 at 10:53




                      Actually no. No 1099. Even at a married 0, we still need additional with holdings because of the level of income we are at.
                      – Hi pals
                      Jun 5 '13 at 10:53




                      1




                      1




                      @Just a guy - Well, heck, I should be charging you for this advice, then. :)
                      – Wesley Long
                      Jun 5 '13 at 16:14




                      @Just a guy - Well, heck, I should be charging you for this advice, then. :)
                      – Wesley Long
                      Jun 5 '13 at 16:14




                      1




                      1




                      haha! It's not that much, but two earners filing jointly breaks the US tax tables pretty quickly. They were made at a time when most women didn't work, and they also expect that you each make roughly the same amount. If you don't fit that mold, all kinds of crazy nonsense happens!
                      – Hi pals
                      Jun 5 '13 at 16:24




                      haha! It's not that much, but two earners filing jointly breaks the US tax tables pretty quickly. They were made at a time when most women didn't work, and they also expect that you each make roughly the same amount. If you don't fit that mold, all kinds of crazy nonsense happens!
                      – Hi pals
                      Jun 5 '13 at 16:24












                      He shouldn't need to do this. The situation is ridiculous! Clever thinking though, @WesleyLong Also, no one should file quarterly ES unless they need to. Employee tax returns are much easier, less chance of getting audited etc. If one is self-employed, or a contractor paid by 1099, then of course, 1040-ES is worth it!
                      – Ellie Kesselman
                      Jun 6 '13 at 10:36




                      He shouldn't need to do this. The situation is ridiculous! Clever thinking though, @WesleyLong Also, no one should file quarterly ES unless they need to. Employee tax returns are much easier, less chance of getting audited etc. If one is self-employed, or a contractor paid by 1099, then of course, 1040-ES is worth it!
                      – Ellie Kesselman
                      Jun 6 '13 at 10:36




                      1




                      1




                      Mr. Oink, you are correct. I was building on an assumption I had made that turned out to be incorrect. I assumed this because I have colleagues that do exactly this.
                      – Wesley Long
                      Jun 10 '13 at 20:35




                      Mr. Oink, you are correct. I was building on an assumption I had made that turned out to be incorrect. I assumed this because I have colleagues that do exactly this.
                      – Wesley Long
                      Jun 10 '13 at 20:35












                       

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