Should a 16 yr. old student who works claim 0 dependents or are there exclusions for students?

Dear Homer: Students are wage earners just like all of us. No special deals. Parents will normally still claim their child until age 24 if they are in school full time. Therefore claiming "0" on the W4 is a good idea unless you know they are not going to have a filing requirement and then just claim exempt. If a student makes over $5700ish they will have to file.

This advice was prepared based on our understanding of the tax laws in effect at the time it was written as it applies to the facts that you provided. Click on my profile to read more. Errol Quinn Enrolled Agent

Total your estimated income.

Either you will clearly make less than $5700 or you expect to make more. If less, you can put exempt. If more, 0 or 1 is okay. 0 if you prefer a refund, 1 if you don't mind paying a little at tax time.

if you are claimed by your parents, you still won;t owe any tax until your income exceeds $5700 a yr or something - just file your w-4 as single and 1