Understanding why you owe taxes this year when you typically receive a refund can be frustrating. Several factors can contribute to this unexpected outcome, including changes in your personal or financial circumstances. Let’s delve into some common reasons why you may find yourself owing taxes to the IRS:
1. Underpayment of Quarterly Taxes for Self-Employed Individuals
If you’re self-employed, you’re responsible for paying estimated taxes quarterly to cover your income and self-employment taxes. These payments are due on April 15, June 15, September 15, and January 15 of the following year. If you underestimate your income or expenses, you may end up underpaying your taxes and owing money when you file your return.
2. Withholding Adjustments for W-2 Employees
As a W-2 employee, your employer withholds taxes from your paycheck based on the information you provide on your W-4 form. If your withholding is too low, you may not have enough taxes taken out of your paycheck throughout the year. This can result in a tax bill when you file your return. Common reasons for under-withholding include:
- Claiming too many allowances on your W-4 form
- Having multiple jobs and not adjusting your withholding accordingly
- Receiving bonuses or commissions that are not subject to withholding
3. Changes in Income or Deductions
Significant changes in your income or deductions can also affect your tax liability. For example, if you receive a raise or start a new job with a higher salary, you may end up owing more taxes. Similarly, if you lose your job or experience a reduction in income, you may have overpaid taxes throughout the year and be due a refund.
4. Expired Tax Breaks
Some tax breaks and deductions that were available in previous years may have expired or been modified. This can result in a higher tax bill if you were previously benefiting from these deductions. For example, the expanded Child Tax Credit and Earned Income Tax Credit that were in place during the COVID-19 pandemic have been reduced for the 2022 tax year.
5. Investment Income
Investment income, such as dividends, interest, and capital gains, is also subject to taxation. If you have a significant amount of investment income, you may end up owing taxes even if your wages are relatively low.
6. State and Local Tax Changes
Changes in state and local tax laws can also impact your federal tax liability. For example, if your state or locality has increased its income tax rate, you may end up owing more federal taxes as well.
7. Marriage or Divorce
Getting married or divorced can also affect your tax situation. If you get married, you may be able to file jointly with your spouse, which can result in a lower tax bill. However, if you get divorced, you may need to file separately, which could lead to a higher tax liability.
8. Other Factors
Other factors that can contribute to owing taxes include:
- Receiving unemployment benefits
- Selling stocks or other investments at a gain
- Withdrawing money from a retirement account early
If you find yourself owing taxes this year, don’t panic. There are several steps you can take to minimize your tax liability and avoid owing taxes in the future.
- Review your withholding: Make sure your employer is withholding the correct amount of taxes from your paycheck. You can use the IRS Withholding Calculator to determine the appropriate withholding amount.
- Make estimated tax payments: If you’re self-employed or have other sources of income that are not subject to withholding, you may need to make estimated tax payments throughout the year.
- Claim all eligible deductions and credits: Take advantage of all the deductions and credits that you’re eligible for. This can help reduce your taxable income and lower your tax bill.
- Consider tax-advantaged investments: Investing in tax-advantaged accounts, such as 401(k)s and IRAs, can help reduce your taxable income and save for retirement.
By understanding the reasons why you may owe taxes this year, you can take steps to minimize your tax liability and avoid owing taxes in the future.
Why Do I OWE TAXES THIS YEAR on my Tax Return?! Taxes for Dummies.
FAQ
Why do I owe so much on my federal tax return?
Why are so many people owing federal taxes this year?
Why would I owe taxes if I claim 0?
Why did tax brackets increase in 2022?
Across the board, the brackets increased by about 7% from 2022 because of inflation. For example, for single filers, the 22% tax bracket for the 2022 tax year started at $41,776 and ended at $89,075. It shifts up to between $44,726 and $95,375 for tax year 2023.
How many people owe taxes in 2022?
As of the end of 2022, 18.6 million individual taxpayers owed the Internal Revenue Service $316 billion in overdue taxes, according to the agency. That number is up from 16.8 million owing $308 billion in September 2019. Copyright © 2024 Dow Jones & Company, Inc.
How do I pay 2022 estimated tax?
The remaining deadlines for paying 2022 quarterly estimated tax are: June 15, September 15, and January 17, 2023. Taxpayers can visit IRS.gov to find options for paying estimated taxes. These include: Direct Pay from a bank account. Paying by credit or debit card or the Electronic Federal Tax Payment System.
Why do I owe taxes this year?
Consult a tax advisor to get personalized help, but here are a few reasons you may owe taxes this year when you normally don’t—or have a smaller or larger refund or tax bill. Feed your brain. Fund your future.