As the calendar year winds down, it’s a great time to review your current IRS Form W-4 and IL-W-4 withholding certificates. Withholding refers to the amount of federal and state income tax that Illinois State University deducts from your paycheck and remits to the federal and state government on your behalf.
Why review your Withholding?
Your personal and financial circumstances may change from year to year-marriage, dependents, second jobs, or other income sources. Updating your withholding ensures the correct amount of tax is withheld, helping you avoid surprises at tax time.
The IRS recommends reviewing your withholding annually and whenever your situation changes. For guidance, check out the IRS video: Do I need to Fill Out a New W-4?
How to review or update your withholding
1. Log in to iPeople.
- If you’re off-campus, you’ll need Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) to view your withholdings.
- To make changes, both MFA and VPN access are required.
2. Navigate to Tax Forms.
- Select Tax Withholding: Fed W4, State to view your current federal and state withholding elections.
3. Make changes.
- Follow the written instructions or use the video tutorial provided in iPeople.
⚠️ Note: You cannot update your W-4 if you are a nonresident for U.S. tax purposes or if you have an IRS Lock-In Letter on file.
Need help calculating withholding?
Illinois State University cannot provide individual tax advice. However, the IRS offers helpful tools:
These resources are updated annually—visit in January to plan for the 2026 tax year. For personalized assistance, consult a tax professional.
Claimed tax-exempt status in 2025?
If you claimed exemption from income tax withholding in 2025, you must submit a new Form W-4 for 2026 by February 15, 2026. If not received by that date, the University is required to begin withholding federal income tax.
International employees
If you’re present in the U.S. on a visa, you may update your W-4 using Sprintax Calculus. For access or help:
- Email TaxOffice@IllinoisState.edu.
- Schedule a virtual or in-person appointment via Bookings.
