Paycheck Calculator 2026
See exactly how much lands in your bank account each pay period after all taxes.
Paycheck Details
2026 limit: $23,500 (under 50) / $31,000 (50+)
Take-Home Pay Per Paycheck
$2,090
Annual Net: $54,327 · 26 paychecks/year
Federal
10.6%
California
9.3%
Total Tax Rate
27.6%
Per Paycheck Breakdown
Annual Summary
Take-Home by Salary
| Salary | Per Paycheck | Total Tax Rate |
|---|---|---|
| $40,000 | $1,175 | 23.6% |
| $55,000 | $1,585 | 25.1% |
| $75,000 | $2,090 | 27.6% |
| $100,000 | $2,677 | 30.4% |
| $125,000 | $3,259 | 32.2% |
| $150,000 | $3,827 | 33.7% |
| $200,000 | $5,019 | 34.7% |
Disclaimer
- State taxes use a simplified flat/top-marginal rate. Actual state tax may differ.
- Does not include local taxes (NYC, city surcharges, etc.).
- FICA includes Social Security (6.2% up to $176,100) and Medicare (1.45% + 0.9% above $200k).
- This is an estimate. Consult a tax professional for precise figures.
Understanding Your Paycheck Deductions
Every paycheck in the United States is subject to multiple layers of taxation. Understanding each deduction helps you plan your budget and optimize your take-home pay. The main withholdings fall into three categories: federal income tax, state income tax, and FICA (Social Security + Medicare).
Federal Income Tax Withholding
Your employer withholds federal income tax from each paycheck based on your W-4 form. The amount depends on your filing status, income level, and any additional withholding you request. The US uses a progressive system with seven brackets ranging from 10% to 37%. Your effective federal rate on a $75,000 salary (single filer) is roughly 11–12%.
State Income Tax by State
State income tax varies widely. Nine states have no income tax at all: Alaska, Florida, Nevada, New Hampshire, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Washington, and Wyoming. On the other end, California's top rate reaches 13.3% and New York's hits 10.9%. Many states have moved toward flat rates in recent years — Arizona (2.5%), Colorado (4.4%), and others now charge a single rate on all taxable income.
FICA Taxes: Social Security and Medicare
FICA stands for the Federal Insurance Contributions Act. It funds Social Security and Medicare. As an employee, you pay:
- Social Security: 6.2% on wages up to $176,100 (projected 2026 cap)
- Medicare: 1.45% on all wages, plus an additional 0.9% on wages over $200,000 (single) or $250,000 (married filing jointly)
Your employer matches the 6.2% + 1.45%, so the full FICA rate is actually 15.3%. You only see your half on your paycheck.
Pre-Tax Deductions That Lower Your Tax Bill
Certain payroll deductions are taken out before taxes, reducing your taxable income. The most common pre-tax deductions include:
- 401(k) contributions: Up to $23,500 in 2026 ($31,000 if 50+)
- Health insurance premiums: Employer-sponsored plans are typically pre-tax
- HSA contributions: Up to $4,300 (self) or $8,550 (family) in 2026
- FSA (Flexible Spending Account): Up to $3,200 in 2026
Maximizing pre-tax deductions is one of the simplest ways to increase your take-home pay while building retirement savings and covering healthcare costs.
Pay Frequency Explained
| Frequency | Paychecks/Year | Common In |
|---|---|---|
| Weekly | 52 | Hourly workers, construction |
| Biweekly | 26 | Most common for salaried employees |
| Semi-Monthly | 24 | Government, some corporations |
| Monthly | 12 | Executives, some non-profits |
Your per-paycheck take-home depends on how many pay periods divide your annual salary. Biweekly workers get 26 paychecks per year, meaning two months each year have three paydays — a nice budget boost.
Use the IRS Tax Withholding Estimator to check your W-4→Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my first paycheck smaller than expected?
Several factors can cause this: your W-4 withholding may be set higher than needed, state taxes may apply, or benefits like health insurance and 401(k) contributions are being deducted. Use this calculator to model your exact situation before your first day.
How can I increase my take-home pay?
The most effective strategies: (1) contribute to a traditional 401(k) or HSA to reduce taxable income, (2) update your W-4 if you're over-withholding (large refunds mean you lent the IRS money interest-free), (3) live in a state with no income tax, and (4) claim all eligible deductions and credits at tax time.
Does this include local taxes?
This calculator covers federal and state income tax plus FICA. It does not include local/city taxes (like the NYC income tax or Ohio municipal taxes). If you live in a jurisdiction with local taxes, your actual take-home will be slightly lower.
What's the difference between gross and net pay?
Gross pay is your total earnings before any deductions. Net pay (take-home pay) is what you actually receive after federal tax, state tax, FICA, and pre-tax deductions are subtracted.
How do I see just the federal tax breakdown?
Our Federal Income Tax Calculator shows a detailed bracket-by-bracket breakdown with effective and marginal rates.
I'm a freelancer — is this the right calculator?
If you receive 1099 income, you also owe self-employment tax (15.3%) on top of income tax. Use our Self-Employment Tax Calculator for a complete picture including SE tax and quarterly estimated payments.
File your federal taxes for free on IRS.gov→