How is federal income tax calculated?

Federal income tax uses progressive brackets — you only pay higher rates on income within each bracket, not your entire income. Your standard deduction ($15,000 single / $30,000 married for 2025) is subtracted first.

What are pre-tax deductions?

Pre-tax deductions include 401(k) contributions, HSA contributions, and employee health insurance premiums. They reduce your taxable income, lowering your federal and state tax withholding.

Why is my actual paycheck different from this estimate?

This calculator provides an estimate using standard deductions and flat state rates. Your actual paycheck may differ due to W-4 allowances, itemized deductions, local taxes, post-tax deductions, or employer-specific withholding rules.

FICA stands for Federal Insurance Contributions Act and consists of Social Security (6.2% up to $176,100) and Medicare (1.45% with no cap). Your employer pays a matching amount. Self-employed individuals pay both halves (15.3% total).

Paycheck Calculator – Estimate Your Take-Home Pay

Calculate your net paycheck after federal tax, state tax, Social Security, and Medicare. Free paycheck calculator with deduction breakdown.

Last updated: 2026-03-09

Paycheck calculator

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Understanding Your Paycheck

Your paycheck is reduced by several mandatory deductions before you receive your take-home pay. Understanding these deductions helps you plan your budget and verify your pay stubs are accurate.

Common Deductions

Federal Income Tax: Based on progressive tax brackets and your filing status
State Income Tax: Varies by state (some states have no income tax)
Social Security (FICA): 6.2% of gross pay, capped at $176,100 for 2025
Medicare: 1.45% of gross pay with no cap (additional 0.9% over $200K)
Pre-Tax Deductions: 401(k), HSA, health insurance premiums — reduce taxable income

No State Income Tax

Alaska, Florida, Nevada, New Hampshire, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Washington, and Wyoming have no state income tax. Set the state rate to 0% for these states.

Frequently Asked Questions

How is federal income tax calculated?: Federal income tax uses progressive brackets — you only pay higher rates on income within each bracket, not your entire income. Your standard deduction ($15,000 single / $30,000 married for 2025) is subtracted first.
What are pre-tax deductions?: Pre-tax deductions include 401(k) contributions, HSA contributions, and employee health insurance premiums. They reduce your taxable income, lowering your federal and state tax withholding.
Why is my actual paycheck different from this estimate?: This calculator provides an estimate using standard deductions and flat state rates. Your actual paycheck may differ due to W-4 allowances, itemized deductions, local taxes, post-tax deductions, or employer-specific withholding rules.
What is FICA tax?: FICA stands for Federal Insurance Contributions Act and consists of Social Security (6.2% up to $176,100) and Medicare (1.45% with no cap). Your employer pays a matching amount. Self-employed individuals pay both halves (15.3% total).

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