How Do I Set Up Withholdings From My Social Security Benefits?

Setting up Federal income tax withholding on your Social Security benefit is a very straightforward process.

Social Security only withholds federal income taxes, it does not withhold any state income taxes. The good news is that most states do not tax your Social Security benefits.

That being said, let’s get into the process for how you can set up withholdings on your social security benefit.

The Four Steps To Have Federal Taxes Withheld From Your Social Security

This is an example of the W-4V form. Do not use this.

1. Obtain Form W-4V

This is the form used to request tax withholding from your Social Security benefits. You can download this form directly from the IRS website, https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/fw4v.pdf, or you can request it from the Social Security Administration.

2. Fill Out Form W-4V

On lines 1,2 & 3, you will need to provide your name, address and Social Security number. You can skip lines 4 & 5 as these lines do not apply to Social Security withholding. On Line 6 is where you can request a specific percentage to be withheld, either 7%, 10%, 12% or 22%.

3. Sign & Date the Form

4. Submit The Form

Once the form is completed, you can mail it directly to your local Social Security Administration (SSA) office or drop it off in person. The closest office to your location can be found on the SSA website here: https://secure.ssa.gov/ICON/main.jsp or by calling their toll-free number, 1-800-772-1213 between 8:00am – 7:00pm local time, Monday through Friday.

IMPORTANT: Do not mail your form to the IRS.