What is the maximum legally allowable number of dependents one can claim on one's W-4? I know years ago one could claim a high number, with the caveat that if not enough taxes were taken out one would be zinged at tax-time. I am getting an extra check during the summer and want to change my w-4 now so that less will be taken out, and then change back to normal later in the summer. I saw elsewhere that if one claimed more than 9 the business would have to submit a W-9 to the IRS. Do I have that information correct and then is 9 the maximum? Thanks