It’s easy to file your return, breathe a sigh of relief, and move on—but a little proactive planning now can make a big difference come next tax season. One of the smartest moves you can make post-filing is to check your tax withholding and adjust if needed. At Brinker Simpson, we’re here to help you take the guesswork out of this process and make sure you're set up for success in 2025 and beyond.

Why Tax Withholding Matters

Taxes operate on a pay-as-you-go system. For most people, this means having taxes withheld from each paycheck throughout the year. But if the wrong amount is withheld, you might end up with a surprise tax bill or an unnecessarily large refund that means you’ve essentially given the government an interest-free loan.

Whether you’re an employee, self-employed, or retired, understanding your withholding is key to avoiding penalties and optimizing your cash flow.

The IRS Withholding Estimator: A Helpful Starting Point

The IRS offers a Tax Withholding Estimator a free, easy-to-use tool that helps you calculate whether your current withholding is on track. You’ll need some basic information, like:

• Your most recent pay stub(s)

• Details on any additional income (side gigs, investments, etc.)

• Your most recent tax return

If you recently filed your 2024 return, now is the ideal time to revisit your withholding strategy.

Life Changes = Withholding Changes

A lot can happen in a year. If any of the following apply to you, it’s time to re-evaluate:

• You got married or divorced

• You had a child

• You bought a home

• You changed jobs or income levels

• You’re earning income from side jobs or freelancing

These changes can impact your overall tax liability, and updating your Form W-4 or estimated payments accordingly can help you avoid surprises.

How We Can Help

At Brinker Simpson, we know that every client’s situation is different, and that’s why a personalized review makes all the difference. We can:

• Review your current withholding and walk through the estimator with you

• Help you adjust your Form W-4 or estimated payments

• Advise on how life changes or new income streams may impact your tax picture

• Ensure you’re optimizing your take-home pay while avoiding year-end surprises
  
  

Let’s Plan Ahead Together

Staying ahead of your taxes doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With a quick review now, you can feel confident about your withholding and avoid scrambling later.

Need help reviewing your tax withholding?
Reach out to our team today—we’re happy to guide you through it and help you make adjustments that support your financial goals.