Working part-time in Arizona can be a smart way to earn extra income, but taxes still apply—even if you only work a few shifts a week. The rules are straightforward once you break them down. This guide explains how Arizona taxes part-time workers, what you should expect on your paycheck, and how to avoid surprises at tax time.
Arizona Income Tax Rules for Part-Time Jobs
Arizona has one of the simplest systems in the country. The state uses a flat income tax rate of 2.5% on wages. That means whether you work 10 hours a week or 40, the same percentage applies.
When you start a new job, your employer will ask you to complete Arizona Form A-4. This form lets you pick how much state tax to withhold from each paycheck—anywhere between 0.5% and 3.5%. If you don’t fill it out, your employer will withhold 2% by defaultExample: If you earn $500 in a week, expect around $12.50 withheld for Arizona state tax at the 2.5% rate.
If you’re unsure how state taxes interact with other expenses, try using a property tax calculator to see how local taxes may affect your overall budget.
Federal Taxes on Part-Time Wages
Arizona state tax is only part of the picture. Your paycheck will also include federal withholding:
- Social Security tax: 6.2%
- Medicare tax: 1.45%
- Federal income tax: depends on the W-4 form you file with your employer
Even part-time jobs are subject to these payroll taxes. For most workers, this adds up to roughly 7.65% of your gross pay, on top of state income tax.
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Part-Time Gig Work and Self-Employment
Not all part-time income comes from a W-2 job. If you drive for Uber, deliver food, or freelance on the side, you may be considered self-employed.
In that case, different rules apply:
- If you earn $400 or more in net income, you must file a tax return.
- You’re responsible for paying the self-employment tax (15.3%), which covers both Social Security and Medicare contributions.
- Most gig workers make quarterly estimated tax payments—due in April, June, September, and January—to avoid penalties.
Example: If you earn $2,000 in a quarter from side gigs, set aside around $300 for self-employment taxes.
To plan ahead, you can use a land loan early payoff calculator to explore how extra income from side gigs could help you pay down debt faster.
Are You a Part-Time Resident of Arizona?
Some people split time between Arizona and another state. If you’re a part-time resident, you’ll pay Arizona tax only on income earned while living in the state, or income sourced from Arizona employers. Nonresidents working in Arizona also owe state tax on money earned within the state.
This is important if you work seasonally—such as wintering in Arizona while working elsewhere the rest of the year.
Common Scenarios for Arizona Part-Time Workers
| Situation | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| Part-time W-2 employee | Employer withholds state (2.5% flat), FICA, and federal tax |
| W-2 + side gig | Employer withholds on W-2; you handle self-employment tax on gig income |
| Gig only (1099) | Responsible for your own state tax and self-employment tax; may need quarterly payments |
| Seasonal/agricultural work | Some exemptions apply, but most wages are taxable |
| Student or young worker | Taxes apply, but refunds may be available if income is below filing thresholds |
How to Fill Out Arizona Form A-4 as a Part-Time Worker
- Choose your preferred withholding rate (0.5%–3.5%).
- If you have multiple jobs, consider selecting a higher percentage to cover combined income.
- If you expect little or no tax liability, you can request zero withholding—but only if you qualify. Otherwise, you may owe at filing time.
- Review your pay stubs regularly to make sure withholding looks right.
FAQs About Arizona Part-Time Job Taxes
Do part-time workers in Arizona pay the same rate as full-time workers?
Yes, all workers pay the same flat 2.5% state income tax.
Can I avoid state withholding if I don’t earn much?
You can request zero withholding on Form A-4 if you meet certain conditions, but most workers should select at least the minimum rate.
Do I pay taxes if I only earn a few hundred dollars?
Yes, taxes apply to all wages, though you may get a refund if your income is below the filing threshold.
What if I work part-time and freelance on the side?
You’ll need to handle both withholding on your W-2 job and estimated taxes on your 1099 income.
Are tips and overtime taxed in Arizona?
Yes, tips and overtime are taxable for both federal and state purposes.
Harry is the creator of ArizonaPaycheckCalculator.com, a trusted resource for accurate and easy-to-use payroll and tax calculators. With a focus on clarity and precision, Harry helps Arizona residents understand their take-home pay, deductions, and withholdings. Dedicated to making complex calculations simple, he combines financial knowledge with user-friendly tools to save users time and confusion.