Recent updates to HCM’s tax tables, which go into effect on July 1, included a change to 2020 Colorado wage withholdings. As a result, some employees may see a change in state taxes withheld from their paychecks.  

This potential change may be due to three factors:
 

• The 2020 federal tax reform changed the way that federal taxable income is calculated. This resulted in higher federal taxable income. 
• This also affected the Colorado tax calculations, as Colorado uses the federal taxable income base to calculate tax withholding. The result: A higher Colorado taxable income.  
• Allowances or dependents no longer affect the calculation of federal or Colorado taxable wages or tax withholding. Now, only your tax status (married or single) affects your Colorado state tax calculation.

Some individuals may be able to apply income tax credits to reduce their Colorado income tax when filing a 2020 Colorado tax return. Please consult a tax advisor for tax advice.

If you believe you should have more CO state taxes withheld, complete the Additional/Cancel State Tax-Withholding Request form with the additional amount you would like deducted each pay period and email it to HCM_Community@cu.edu.