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April 17, 2025
Question

How do I record a $0 state withholding payment?

  • April 17, 2025
  • 1 reply
  • 0 views

We are setup as semi-monthly for state withholding (WI), but starting in 2025 we are no longer prompted to make a $0 payment when there is no payroll during the period. This was always done in the past, so it just started this year. I'm also not able to record the $0 payment manually because it will not let me enter a zero-dollar amount.

1 reply

April 17, 2025

Hi there, dawn-wenzel.

First, let's verify with the Wisconsin Department of Revenue whether you still need to report $0 withholdings, as state requirements have changed. Let’s see how we can address this effectively.

 

If you need to maintain internal records for $0 withholdings, creating a journal entry is a viable option. Here are the step-by-step instructions on how to record a zero amount for state withholding payment in Wisconsin:

1. Log into your accounting system.
2. Navigate to the section where you can create a Journal Entry.
3. Set the date to correspond with the end of the payroll period.
4. For the Debit entry, use the Payroll Expense account with $0 (or $0.01 if $0 is not permitted).
5. For the Credit entry, use the State Withholding Liabilities account with the same amount.


For comprehensive guidance on moving money and balancing your books, refer to this article: Create journal entries in QuickBooks Online.

Additionally, you can find information on how to pay and file state and local taxes using QuickBooks e-pay and e-file here: Pay and file payroll taxes and forms electronically in QuickBooks Online Payroll.

If you have further questions regarding withholding payment, don't hesitate to add a comment below. We'll provide continuous assistance. Have a nice one.