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Paycheck Calculator
Calculate your take-home pay after federal tax, state tax, FICA, Medicare, and deductions. All 50 USA states supported.
💰 Enter Your Payroll Information
Net Pay (Take Home)
📊 Annual Summary
📉 Tax & Deduction Breakdown
Understanding Your Paycheck
What Gets Deducted from Your Paycheck?
Your gross pay is reduced by several mandatory and optional deductions before you receive your net pay (take-home pay). Here's what's typically withheld:
- Federal Income Tax: Based on your W-4 form, filing status, and income level. The USA uses a progressive tax system with brackets ranging from 10% to 37% for 2024.
- State Income Tax: Varies by state. States like California, New York, and Oregon have high rates, while Texas, Florida, and Nevada have no state income tax.
- Social Security (FICA): 6.2% of your wages up to $168,600 (2024 limit). Your employer matches this contribution.
- Medicare: 1.45% of all wages with no cap. High earners (over $200k single, $250k married) pay an additional 0.9%.
- 401(k) Retirement: Optional pre-tax contribution. Reduces your taxable income now but taxed upon withdrawal in retirement.
- Health Insurance: Your share of employer-sponsored health, dental, and vision insurance premiums.
2024 Federal Tax Brackets (Single Filers)
| Tax Rate | Single Filers | Married Filing Jointly |
|---|---|---|
| 10% | $0 to $11,600 | $0 to $23,200 |
| 12% | $11,601 to $47,150 | $23,201 to $94,300 |
| 22% | $47,151 to $100,525 | $94,301 to $201,050 |
| 24% | $100,526 to $191,950 | $201,051 to $383,900 |
| 32% | $191,951 to $243,725 | $383,901 to $487,450 |
| 35% | $243,726 to $609,350 | $487,451 to $731,200 |
| 37% | Over $609,350 | Over $731,200 |
States with No Income Tax (2024)
Nine states do not levy state income tax on wages:
- Alaska - No state income tax
- Florida - No state income tax
- Nevada - No state income tax
- New Hampshire - Only taxes interest and dividends (phasing out by 2025)
- South Dakota - No state income tax
- Tennessee - No state income tax
- Texas - No state income tax
- Washington - No state income tax (but has capital gains tax)
- Wyoming - No state income tax
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Frequently Asked Questions
How accurate is this paycheck calculator?
This calculator uses official 2024 IRS federal tax brackets and standard FICA rates (6.2% Social Security, 1.45% Medicare). State tax calculations use simplified flat rates or progressive brackets where applicable. For exact withholding, consult your employer's payroll department or a tax professional.
What is the difference between gross pay 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, Social Security, Medicare, and other deductions like 401(k) and health insurance are withheld.
Why is my state tax showing $0?
Nine states have no state income tax: Alaska, Florida, Nevada, New Hampshire, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Washington, and Wyoming. If you selected one of these states, your state tax will be $0.
Does 401(k) reduce my taxable income?
Yes! Traditional 401(k) contributions are made pre-tax, meaning they reduce your taxable income for the year. This lowers your federal and state tax liability now, though you'll pay taxes when you withdraw in retirement.
What is the Social Security wage base limit?
For 2024, Social Security tax (6.2%) only applies to the first $168,600 of wages. Income above this threshold is not subject to Social Security tax, though Medicare tax (1.45%) applies to all wages with no cap.
How often should I recalculate my paycheck?
Recalculate whenever you get a raise, change your W-4 allowances, move to a different state, change your 401(k) contribution, or when tax laws change (usually annually). This helps you budget accurately and avoid tax surprises.
Know Your Take-Home Pay
Calculate your exact paycheck with all federal, state, and FICA deductions. Free, accurate, and instant.
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