How to use the Paycheck Calculator
- Choose your state and whether you are paid a salary or by the hour.
- Pick how often you are paid and your filing status.
- Add 401(k) and other pre-tax deductions such as health insurance premiums.
- Read your take-home pay per paycheck and the full breakdown of every tax.
How it works
Your paycheck starts with gross pay. Pre-tax deductions (401(k), health premiums) come off first, then the 2026 standard deduction ($16,100 single, $32,200 married filing jointly) before federal income tax brackets from 10% to 37% apply.
Take-home = gross − pre-tax deductions − federal tax − Social Security (6.2% up to $184,500) − Medicare (1.45% + 0.9% over $200k) − state & local taxState income tax follows each state's own brackets, deductions and credits; nine states do not tax wages at all. Choose your state below for its rates and examples.
Paycheck calculators by state
Frequently asked questions
How much federal tax is taken out of my paycheck?
It depends on your income and filing status. In 2026 the first $16,100 (single) of taxable wages is covered by the standard deduction, then rates rise from 10% to 37%. This calculator applies the brackets to your annual pay and divides by your pay periods.
What is FICA?
FICA is Social Security (6.2% on wages up to $184,500 in 2026) plus Medicare (1.45% on all wages, plus 0.9% on wages above $200,000 for single filers). Your employer pays a matching amount.
Why is my actual paycheck different?
Withholding depends on the W-4 you filed, credits such as the Child Tax Credit, bonuses and other deductions. Use this estimate to plan, and compare it with your pay stub.