Hey everyone, welcome back to Finance Friday. It's another special edition of Money Girl,

where I answer your burning money questions. I love hearing from you and want to answer your

question. So if something finance related is on your mind, you've got a question about just, you know,

anything related to money, leave me a voicemail at 302-364-0308. You can leave your name or stay

anonymous. Today's topic comes from Emily, who says, I'm a recent graduate in my first job and have to file my first

tax return next year for 2025. Can you explain how to follow the tax rules without overpaying?

Thank you for your question, Emily, and congratulations on landing your first job. I do think taxes can

feel intimidating, especially when you start your career. So I'm really glad you asked this question.

While the U.S. tax system is complex, you don't need to be a tax expert to file an accurate tax return.

This podcast will review the basics of income taxes

and how to comply with the law while minimizing the amount you owe. Your goal should be to pay

precisely what you legally owe, but not a penny more. Welcome back, everyone. This is episode 971 of Money Girl. I really appreciate

you downloading the show. I'm Laura Adams, an award-winning author, on-camera spokesperson,

money speaker, and founder of The Money Stack. That's my substack newsletter. You can learn more,

ask any money question, and sign up for the money stack

at laura d.adams.com. You can get the newsletter for free or become a paid member with access to my

live educational and Q&A events. While you might think that you only pay income taxes on or near April 15 every year.

You actually pay them all year long.

When you start working, you must complete form W4.

That's the Employees withholding Certificate.

It tells your employer how much tax to withhold from each paycheck.

And depending on where you live, you may also need to complete a state tax withholding form.

...