Federal Income Tax Calculator 2026
Enter your income to see a full bracket-by-bracket breakdown of your federal tax.
Income Details
Federal Income Tax
$7,960
Effective Rate: 10.6% · Marginal Rate: 22.0%
Taxable Income
$59,300
Amount Owed
-$7,960
Tax Bracket Breakdown
| Rate | Bracket Range | Taxable | Tax |
|---|---|---|---|
| 10% | $0 – $11,925 | $11,925 | $1,193 |
| 12% | $11,925 – $48,475 | $36,550 | $4,386 |
| 22% | $48,475 – $103,350 | $10,825 | $2,382 |
| Tax Before Credits | $7,960 | ||
Federal Tax by Income Level
| Income | Tax | Effective Rate |
|---|---|---|
| $30,000 | $1,477.5 | 4.9% |
| $50,000 | $3,877.5 | 7.8% |
| $75,000 | $7,960 | 10.6% |
| $100,000 | $13,460 | 13.5% |
| $150,000 | $25,079 | 16.7% |
| $200,000 | $37,079 | 18.5% |
| $300,000 | $69,052.25 | 23.0% |
| $500,000 | $139,052.25 | 27.8% |
Disclaimer
- Based on projected 2026 federal tax brackets (inflation-adjusted).
- This calculator covers federal income tax only — FICA and state taxes are not included.
- Child Tax Credit is simplified. Phase-out for high incomes is not modeled.
- For official guidance, consult the IRS or a tax professional.
How Federal Income Tax Works in the US
The United States uses a progressive tax system, meaning your income is taxed at increasing rates as it moves through each bracket. Only the income within a given bracket is taxed at that bracket's rate — not your entire income. This is why your effective tax rate is always lower than your marginal (top) tax rate.
2026 Federal Tax Brackets (Projected)
Each year the IRS adjusts tax brackets for inflation. For the 2026 tax year, brackets are projected to increase slightly from 2025. The seven rates remain: 10%, 12%, 22%, 24%, 32%, 35%, and 37%.
| Rate | Single Filer | Married Filing Jointly |
|---|---|---|
| 10% | $0 – $11,925 | $0 – $23,850 |
| 12% | $11,925 – $48,475 | $23,850 – $96,950 |
| 22% | $48,475 – $103,350 | $96,950 – $206,700 |
| 24% | $103,350 – $197,300 | $206,700 – $394,600 |
| 32% | $197,300 – $250,525 | $394,600 – $501,050 |
| 35% | $250,525 – $626,350 | $501,050 – $751,600 |
| 37% | Over $626,350 | Over $751,600 |
Standard Deduction for 2026
Most taxpayers claim the standard deduction, which reduces your taxable income before brackets are applied. For 2026, projected amounts are:
- Single / Married Filing Separately: $15,700
- Married Filing Jointly: $31,400
- Head of Household: $23,500
If your itemized deductions (mortgage interest, state/local taxes up to the $10,000 SALT cap, charitable contributions, etc.) exceed the standard deduction, itemizing may save you more.
Effective vs. Marginal Tax Rate
Your marginal rate is the rate applied to your last dollar of taxable income. Your effective rate is your total tax divided by total income — the real percentage you pay overall. For example, a single filer earning $100,000 has a marginal rate of 22% but an effective federal rate of roughly 14%.
Child Tax Credit
For 2026, the Child Tax Credit remains $2,000 per qualifying child under 17. This is a dollar-for-dollar reduction of your tax liability — one of the most valuable credits available to families. Phase-outs begin at $200,000 for single filers and $400,000 for married filing jointly.
File your federal taxes for free on IRS.gov→Frequently Asked Questions
Does this calculator include FICA (Social Security and Medicare)?
No. This calculator covers federal income tax only. FICA taxes (6.2% Social Security + 1.45% Medicare) are separate. Use our Paycheck Calculator for a complete take-home pay breakdown including FICA and state taxes.
When is the 2026 tax filing deadline?
The deadline for filing your 2026 federal tax return is April 15, 2027. You can request an automatic extension to October 15, 2027, but any taxes owed are still due by April 15.
What are above-the-line deductions?
Above-the-line deductions reduce your Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) regardless of whether you take the standard or itemized deduction. Common examples include traditional IRA contributions, HSA contributions, student loan interest (up to $2,500), and self-employment health insurance.
How do I know if I should itemize?
Compare your total itemized deductions to the standard deduction for your filing status. If itemized is higher, it makes sense to itemize. Common itemized deductions include mortgage interest, state and local taxes (SALT, capped at $10,000), and charitable donations.
I'm self-employed. Does this cover my taxes?
This calculator handles federal income tax, but self-employed individuals also owe SE tax (15.3%). Use our Self-Employment Tax Calculator for a full breakdown including SE tax and quarterly estimated payments.
Check your withholding with the IRS Tax Withholding Estimator→