Paycheck Calculator
Estimate your take-home pay after federal income tax, FICA (Social Security & Medicare), and state taxes. Uses 2024 federal tax brackets.
How Federal Income Tax Is Calculated
The U.S. federal income tax is progressive — meaning higher income is taxed at higher rates. But only the income within each bracket is taxed at that rate.
| Rate | Single Filer | Married Filing Jointly |
|---|---|---|
| 10% | $0–$11,600 | $0–$23,200 |
| 12% | $11,601–$47,150 | $23,201–$94,300 |
| 22% | $47,151–$100,525 | $94,301–$201,050 |
| 24% | $100,526–$191,950 | $201,051–$383,900 |
| 32% | $191,951–$243,725 | $383,901–$487,450 |
| 35% | $243,726–$609,350 | $487,451–$731,200 |
| 37% | Over $609,350 | Over $731,200 |
2024 federal tax brackets. Standard deduction: $14,600 (single), $29,200 (MFJ).
Understanding Your Pay Stub
Your pay stub shows gross earnings and all deductions. Mandatory deductions include federal and state income taxes and FICA. Voluntary deductions — like 401(k) contributions, health insurance, or FSA contributions — are not included in this calculator but will further reduce your net pay.
Frequently Asked Questions
What taxes are deducted from my paycheck?
Most employees see four main deductions: federal income tax (based on your income and filing status), state income tax (varies by state — nine states have no income tax), Social Security (6.2% on income up to $168,600 in 2024), and Medicare (1.45% on all wages). Additional deductions may include 401(k) contributions, health insurance premiums, and local income taxes.
What is FICA?
FICA stands for Federal Insurance Contributions Act. It covers two payroll taxes: Social Security (6.2%) and Medicare (1.45%), totaling 7.65% of your gross wages. Your employer pays an equal 7.65% match. Self-employed individuals pay both the employee and employer share (15.3%) as self-employment tax.
How does filing status affect my federal tax?
Your filing status determines your standard deduction and tax bracket thresholds. Married Filing Jointly (MFJ) gets a larger standard deduction ($29,200 in 2024 vs. $14,600 for single filers) and wider brackets, resulting in lower federal taxes at most income levels.
Which states have no income tax?
As of 2024, these states have no state income tax: Alaska, Florida, Nevada, New Hampshire (dividends/interest only), South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Washington, and Wyoming. If you live in one of these states, enter 0% as your state tax rate.
What is the difference between gross pay and net pay?
Gross pay is your earnings before any deductions — the salary or hourly rate agreed upon with your employer. Net pay (take-home pay) is what you actually receive after all taxes and deductions are withheld. The difference includes income taxes, FICA, and any voluntary deductions like 401(k) or health insurance.