Question

How do you count the vlanece electrons for for [Fe(CO)₄]^2-?

I cannot figure out how to get 16 or 18 using the donor pair method or the netural ligand method. For some reason I cannot figure out electron counting, depsite watching videos. In the exmplaes it all makes sense, until I try to do one on my own.
Anyways, using the donor pair method, the COs would contribute 2e^- each, so 8e^- total. Then iron would be in the -2 oxidation state beccause of the -2 charge, which puts us at 12e^-, then subtract 2e^- for the oxidation state, which puts us at 10e^-, which I know is not right.

Answer 1