Hi,

I need to file W4. Until 2 months ago my wife and kid were with me living in United States. So I could file jointly. Now I need to update my W4 since they no more live with me and went back to India.. our home country.

We are still married and they do not live in USA anymore. I need help to fill up my W4.

Thanks,
Tushar

You can still file jointly with your wife if she agrees, the fact that you and your wife don't live in the same household any longer will not prohibit you from filing married filing jointly.

Regarding your dependents; you didn't say whether you claimed the child also on your W-4 form. If you did you only need to reverify you can still claim your dependent. If your not sure, the rules for claiming a dependent are found in pub 501, and pub 54 for nonresidents. And accessible from the IRS website, www.irs.gov. Complete the W-4 form carefully, and answer all questions, if you still have a problem ask, and be specific.

Always remember, you don't have to claim all the allowances on your W-4 you have the authority or allowed to claim. You can always claim less, its when you claim more that can create IRS problems. You can claim zero, or have additional amount withheld up to the amount of your check. You'll have a smaller check, but a larger refund check next April 15, as you've increased your withholding you get as a credit on your next years taxes.

Good Luck, Tusharm

Mack thank you for responding.

I have some additional questions here. My situation is we are separated but still married. I will need to file separately being married next year. Yes.. I used to claim my kid and wife both as dependants when they were living with me here. Could I still do that as a "Head of Household" enabling me to reduce my taxes?

Your visa? When did you enter U.S. Did you file 2008 tax return and form filed?

I am on H1B. Entered US in April 2006. Yes I filed 2008 returns and also claimed my wife and kid as dependants.

Thanks. Appreciate your response.