Take-Home Pay Calculator
Estimate your net pay after taxes and deductions.
Pre-tax retirement savings
Health Savings Account
Understanding Your Paycheck
Your gross salary is reduced by several taxes before you receive your net (take-home) pay.
Common Deductions From Your Paycheck
Federal Income Tax
The U.S. uses a progressive tax system with brackets ranging from 10% to 37%. Your effective rate is typically lower than your marginal rate because income is taxed at different rates through the brackets.
State Income Tax
State tax rates vary from 0% (no income tax states) to over 13% (California). Some states have flat rates, others use progressive brackets like federal taxes.
FICA Taxes
- Social Security: 6.2% on earnings up to $168,600 (2024)
- Medicare: 1.45% on all earnings (plus 0.9% additional Medicare tax on income over $200,000)
Other Deductions
- Retirement savings: Voluntary contributions to pension or retirement accounts
- Insurance premiums: Health, life, or other insurance deductions
- Other benefits: Additional workplace benefits or deductions
Reducing Your Tax Burden
Pre-tax deductions can lower your taxable income and increase take-home pay:
- 401(k) contributions: Up to $23,000/year (2024), reduces taxable income
- Health Savings Account (HSA): Up to $4,150 individual/$8,300 family (2024)
- Flexible Spending Account (FSA): Up to $3,200/year for healthcare expenses
- Traditional IRA: Additional retirement savings option
Marginal vs Effective Tax Rate
Marginal rate: The rate on your next dollar of income (your tax bracket).
Effective rate: Your total tax divided by total income. This is usually lower because income is taxed at different rates through the brackets.
Disclaimer
This calculator provides estimates for informational purposes only. Calculations are based on 2024-2025 federal and state tax brackets. Actual take-home pay depends on many factors including deductions, credits, filing status, dependents, other income sources, and pre-tax contributions. Tax laws change frequently. This is not tax advice. We are not CPAs or tax professionals. Consult a qualified tax professional or accountant for personalized advice regarding your specific tax situation.