Taxes for regular people
- Filling out a W-4Single with one job? Fill in Step 1, sign Step 5 and you're done. Use the IRS estimator if you have two jobs.
- W-2 vs. 1099On a 1099 nothing is withheld. You owe 15.3% self-employment tax plus income tax, so set money aside every payment.
- Filing your taxes for freeSingle, under 65? You had to file for 2025 at $15,750 or more. IRS Free File software is free with an AGI up to $89,000.
- Spotting IRS scamsThe IRS starts almost all contact by mail and never demands gift cards, wire transfers or crypto.