Free US Paycheck Calculator — See Your Exact Take-Home Pay in 2026
Enter your salary or hourly wage. Get federal, state, and FICA taxes broken down instantly — accurate for all 50 states.
Understand Your Paycheck Results
Federal Income Tax
Federal income tax is calculated using a progressive bracket system — you don't pay one flat rate on your whole income. Instead, each portion of your income is taxed at the rate for that bracket. For 2026, the standard deduction is $16,100 for single filers, which reduces your taxable income before brackets apply.
Social Security & Medicare (FICA)
Social Security tax is 6.2% of your wages, but only up to the annual wage base — $184,500 for 2026. Earnings above that amount are not subject to Social Security tax for the rest of the year. Medicare tax is 1.45% with no wage cap, plus an additional 0.9% on earnings above $200,000 (single) or $250,000 (married filing jointly).
State Income Tax
State tax rules vary enormously. Nine states — Alaska, Florida, Nevada, New Hampshire, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Washington, and Wyoming — have no state income tax on wages at all. Others use a flat rate, and many use progressive brackets similar to the federal system.
Common Paycheck Questions
How much is taken out of my paycheck in taxes?
It depends on your income, filing status, state, and pre-tax deductions — typically somewhere between 15% and 30% of gross pay for most workers once you combine federal tax, state tax, and FICA. Use the calculator above for your exact number.
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 actually lands in your bank account after taxes and other deductions like insurance and retirement contributions are subtracted.
How do I increase my take-home pay legally?
Increasing pre-tax 401(k) contributions, using an HSA or FSA, adjusting your W-4 withholding to match your actual liability, and claiming eligible tax credits are the most common legal ways to increase take-home pay without a raise.
Why did my paycheck change this year?
Tax brackets, the standard deduction, and the Social Security wage base are all adjusted annually for inflation. A pay change with no raise is often explained by these built-in yearly adjustments, or by a change in your benefits elections.
How We Calculate This
Figures on this page reflect 2026 tax year rules per IRS Revenue Procedure 2025-32 and the Social Security Administration's 2026 contribution and benefit base. This calculator provides an estimate for planning purposes and does not constitute tax advice — consult a licensed tax professional for your specific situation.
Last updated: January 1, 2026