Paycheck Calculator

How to Estimate Your Take-Home Pay

Your take-home pay is the amount you actually receive after all federal deductions are withheld from your gross pay. The three main federal deductions are federal income tax, Social Security tax, and Medicare tax. This calculator estimates your net pay per paycheck based on your annual salary, pay frequency, and filing status.

Federal Payroll Deductions Explained

Federal Income Tax: Based on your taxable income and the progressive IRS tax brackets. Your filing status and the standard deduction determine how much of your income is subject to federal tax. Social Security (OASDI): 6.2% of your wages up to the 2024 wage base of $168,600. Once you earn above this amount, no additional Social Security tax is withheld. Medicare: 1.45% of all wages, with an additional 0.9% surtax on wages above $200,000 (Additional Medicare Tax).

Pay Frequency Options

Weekly means 52 paychecks per year. Bi-weekly means 26 paychecks (every two weeks). Semi-monthly means 24 paychecks (twice a month, typically on the 1st and 15th). Monthly means 12 paychecks. The same annual salary produces different per-paycheck amounts depending on the frequency.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this include state taxes?

No. This calculator covers federal deductions only. Your actual take-home pay may be lower if your state imposes income tax. States without income tax include Texas, Florida, Nevada, Washington, and others.

What about 401(k) or health insurance deductions?

Pre-tax deductions like 401(k) contributions and employer-sponsored health insurance premiums reduce your taxable income and are not included in this simplified estimator. Your actual paycheck will reflect these additional withholdings.