When I input the hours for payroll, the federal withholding is showing up as zero for some employees. Why is that?

Let me be the first to welcome you to the Community, bmajed.

Once a paycheck is showing up a zero amount, it may be because the employee is not meeting the taxable wage base. Otherwise, the employee's setup can also be a factor.

If the employee met the taxable wage base, you can check the employee's set up in QuickBooks. This is to verify if he/she was set to Do Not Withhold.

Here's how:

1. Go to your company file and click the Employees menu.
2. Select Employee Center and double click on the employee's name.
3. Tap the Payroll Info tab on the left-side panel.
4. Click the Taxes button to check the filing status under the Federal tabs. 

The filing status should only be set to Do Not Withhold if they claim exemption from withholding. If not, please select the correct status. For more information, you can refer to this article: 0.00 or no income tax withheld from paycheck.

I'll include this helpful guide about changing incorrect payroll items in case you'll need it in the future: Edit payroll items used on paychecks.

Know that I'm always here if you have any questions or clarifications. I'm glad to help anytime. Take care and have a good day.