An estimate on 2009 tax refund?

Question

Thank you all for your replies.

I do understand the concept of a refund. Of all the years that I have been working, I never once had to pay in. On my W-4 form, I filed single 0. My medical and dental is pretaxed. I have no dependents and not a dependent. I would like to know an estimate of what I will be expecting next year.

Last year I made $10,000 and got $350 back.

Again, thank you.

Answer 1

go to irs.gov and use the withholding calculator.  It will estimate your income, your withholding, your tax bill and your refund (if any).

Answer 2

It is a bit early to ask about a 2009 refund. 2008 hasn't even ended yet.

Answer 3

On $19K, claiming zero, you should get more back than you did last year, over $500 but probably under $1000.

Answer 4

Dear Beautiful,

  If you are single and have no dependents, you have a standard deduction of $5,450, and a personal exemption of $3,500 for this year.  That means that the first $8,950 of your income is not taxed.  So, assume that your income is the same as last year, which means that your taxable income is $1,050, which at the 10% rate gives you a tax liability of $105.  If you expect to make less than about $16,000 total this year, you will have a tax liability of 10% over the exemption and deduction amount.  As long as your total withholding is more than this amount, you will have a refund.  The tax calculator that VB mentioned may help you decide what to put on your W-4, but keep in mind that if you work part time, or irregularly, this may lead to under-withholding.  Check your pay stubs to see how much has been withheld year-to-date.  That should give you a good idea of your refund/balance due status.  Don't forget state income tax, if any.