All that the IRS can do is go by your signed paperwork. When you tell them on their Form W-4 that you have 5 exemptions, you are telling them that you agree to be under their taxing system. Instead, fill out your W-4 with your name, address, and SSN, same as usual. Then on all the lines, write "n-a" and sign the W-4 "non-assumpsit" (no contract) your sig. Then, write "EXEMPT" across the form before you send it to your employer. And make sure you don't have any other agreements with the IRS.