Tax Refund Estimator

How this calculator works

Enter the total tax withheld from your paychecks during the year and your total tax owed. If withholding is higher, the difference is an estimated refund. If the tax owed is higher, the difference is the amount you would owe. This is a simple comparison, not a tax return, so credits, deductions and other income need to be built into your tax owed number first.

Example

$9,200 withheld during the year and $8,350 of total tax owed. The calculator shows: Estimated Refund: $850.00.

Tips

• Use your latest pay stubs to find year-to-date withholding, and a tax tool or tax professional to estimate the tax you owe.
• A large refund means you gave the government an interest-free loan. You can adjust your withholding with a new W-4 if you want more pay each month.
• If you owe a lot, make sure you do not face an underpayment penalty by adjusting your withholding or paying estimated tax.

Common questions

Is this a substitute for filing a tax return?

No. It is a quick estimate and not tax advice. Your actual result depends on your full tax return.

How do I change my withholding?

Submit an updated W-4 to your employer. The IRS has a withholding estimator on its website to help you choose the amounts.

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Results are estimates only. See our disclaimer.