Paycheck Calculator
See your real take-home pay after taxes and deductions
Your Information
Enter your salary to see your paycheck breakdown
Understanding Your Paycheck
Your paycheck goes through several deductions before reaching your bank account. Understanding each component helps you make better financial decisions about retirement contributions, benefits enrollment, and tax planning.
Federal Income Tax
Uses progressive brackets (10% to 37% in 2025). Your standard deduction ($15,000 single, $30,000 married) reduces taxable income before brackets apply.
State Income Tax
Varies by state. Nine states have no income tax (TX, FL, WA, NV, TN, WY, AK, SD, NH). Others use flat rates (IL: 4.95%) or progressive brackets (CA: up to 13.3%).
Social Security (FICA)
6.2% of wages up to $176,100 (2025). Wages above this cap aren't subject to Social Security tax. This funds retirement and disability benefits.
Medicare (FICA)
1.45% of all wages with no cap. High earners pay an additional 0.9% on wages over $200,000 (single) or $250,000 (married filing jointly).
Pre-Tax Benefits: How They Save You Money
| Benefit | 2025 Limit | Tax Treatment |
|---|---|---|
| 401(k) | $23,500 ($31,000 if 50+) | Reduces federal/state tax, still pays FICA |
| HSA | $4,300 / $8,550 family | Reduces all taxes including FICA |
| Healthcare FSA | $3,300 | Reduces all taxes including FICA |
| Dependent Care FSA | $5,000 | Reduces all taxes including FICA |
Frequently Asked Questions
Federal income tax uses progressive brackets. For 2025, rates range from 10% to 37%. You pay 10% on the first $11,925 (single), then 12% up to $48,475, and so on. The calculator applies your standard deduction before calculating taxes.
FICA includes Social Security (6.2% up to $176,100) and Medicare (1.45% with no cap). High earners pay an additional 0.9% Medicare tax on wages over $200,000 (single) or $250,000 (married).
Pre-tax deductions like 401(k), health insurance, FSA, and HSA reduce your taxable income, lowering your federal and state tax withholding. However, 401(k) contributions are still subject to FICA taxes, while HSA and FSA contributions are exempt from FICA.
Your marginal tax rate is the rate on your last dollar earned (your tax bracket). Your effective tax rate is the average rate you actually pay across all income. Effective rate is always lower than marginal rate due to progressive brackets.
Actual withholding depends on your W-4 form settings, employer payroll system, local taxes, and other deductions not included here (like union dues or garnishments). This calculator provides estimates based on standard withholding formulas.
Important Disclaimer
This calculator provides estimates for educational purposes only. It is not tax, financial, or legal advice. Actual paycheck amounts depend on your specific W-4 settings, employer payroll system, local taxes, and other factors. Consult a tax professional for personalized advice.