Salary Calculator — Take-Home Pay Estimator
Estimate your net take-home pay after federal income tax, state tax, FICA (Social Security and Medicare), and 401(k) contributions. Uses 2026 tax brackets.
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Understanding Your Paycheck Deductions
Your gross salary is not what lands in your bank account. Several deductions reduce your taxable income and your take-home pay. Understanding each one helps you plan your budget more accurately.
Federal Income Tax
The US uses a progressive tax system with multiple brackets. This means different portions of your income are taxed at different rates — your first dollar is taxed at a lower rate than your last dollar. The tax brackets for 2026 range from 10% to 37% depending on your filing status and income level. The standard deduction reduces your taxable income before brackets are applied.
FICA Taxes
FICA (Federal Insurance Contributions Act) taxes fund Social Security and Medicare:
- Social Security: 6.2% on wages up to the annual wage base limit.
- Medicare: 1.45% on all wages, with an additional 0.9% surtax on income above $200,000 (single) or $250,000 (married joint).
Together, the base FICA rate is 7.65% for most earners.
State Income Tax
State tax rates vary widely across the country. Some states (AK, FL, NV, NH, SD, TN, TX, WA, WY) have no state income tax at all. Others have flat rates or progressive brackets. State taxes are an important factor when comparing job offers in different locations.
401(k) Contributions
Contributing to a traditional 401(k) reduces your taxable income dollar for dollar. For example, if you earn $75,000 and contribute 5% ($3,750), your taxable income drops to about $71,250 (minus other deductions). This is one of the most powerful tax-advantaged saving strategies available — you save on taxes today while building your retirement nest egg.
Standard Deduction (2026, Simplified)
- Single: $14,600
- Married Filing Jointly: $29,200
- Head of Household: $21,900
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⚠️ Disclaimer: This calculator provides estimates for educational purposes only. It uses simplified 2026 tax brackets and does not account for all possible deductions, credits, local taxes, or specific tax situations. Actual tax liability may differ. State tax rates are approximate and may not reflect recent changes. Consult a qualified tax professional for personalized tax advice.