Paycheck Calculator
Enter your salary and state to see your take-home pay after federal tax, state tax, Social Security, and Medicare. Free, instant, no sign-up.
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How Does the Paycheck Calculator Work?
Our paycheck calculator estimates your take-home pay by applying 2026 federal income tax brackets, FICA taxes (Social Security and Medicare), and state-specific income tax rates to your gross salary. Here's what gets deducted from your paycheck:
Federal Income Tax
Calculated using progressive tax brackets (10% to 37%) after subtracting the standard deduction ($16,100 for single filers in 2026).
Social Security Tax
6.2% of your wages, up to a wage base limit of $184,500 in 2026. Income above this limit is not subject to Social Security tax.
Medicare Tax
1.45% of all wages, with an additional 0.9% for high earners (over $200,000 for single filers, $250,000 for married filing jointly).
State Income Tax
Varies by state. Nine states have no income tax, while others use flat rates or progressive brackets. The calculator applies your state's specific rules.
What Is Not Included in This Calculator?
This calculator provides a baseline estimate. Your actual paycheck may differ due to:
- Pre-tax deductions: 401(k) contributions, health insurance premiums, HSA/FSA contributions
- Local taxes: Some cities and counties impose additional income taxes (e.g., New York City, local Ohio taxes)
- Post-tax deductions: Garnishments, union dues, life insurance
- Additional withholdings: Extra withholding you requested on your W-4 form
Paycheck Calculator by State
State income tax rates vary significantly. Select your state for a state-specific paycheck calculator with local tax details:
Frequently Asked Questions
How is take-home pay calculated?
Take-home pay (net pay) is your gross salary minus federal income tax, state income tax, Social Security (6.2%), and Medicare (1.45%). The calculator uses 2026 federal tax brackets and state-specific tax rates. Your standard deduction is subtracted before applying federal tax rates.
What percentage of my paycheck goes to taxes?
Typically, 22-35% of your gross paycheck goes to taxes, depending on your income level, filing status, and state. States with no income tax (like Texas, Florida, Nevada) will have a lower overall tax burden. High earners in high-tax states like California may see effective rates above 40%.
What is FICA on my paycheck?
FICA stands for Federal Insurance Contributions Act. It includes Social Security tax (6.2% of wages up to $184,500 in 2026) and Medicare tax (1.45% of all wages, plus an additional 0.9% for high earners above $200,000). FICA taxes are automatically withheld from every paycheck.
Which states have no income tax?
Nine states have no state income tax: Alaska, Florida, Nevada, New Hampshire, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Washington, and Wyoming. Residents of these states still pay federal income tax and FICA, but their overall tax burden is lower.
What's the difference between gross pay and net pay?
Gross pay is your total salary before any deductions. Net pay (take-home pay) is what you actually receive after all taxes and deductions are withheld. The difference between gross and net pay represents your total tax burden plus any voluntary deductions.
How accurate is this paycheck calculator?
This calculator provides close estimates using 2026 federal tax brackets, FICA rates, and state income tax rates. However, actual paychecks may vary due to pre-tax deductions (401k, health insurance), local taxes, additional W-4 withholdings, and other factors specific to your employer.