Paycheck Calculator 2026

Most US employees see four main deductions: Federal income tax (based on your bracket and filing status), State income tax (varies by state — nine states have no income tax), Social Security (6.2% on wages up to $176,100 in 2026), and Medicare (1.45% on all wages, plus an extra 0.9% if you earn over $200,000). You may also have voluntary deductions like 401(k) contributions and health insurance premiums.

Gross pay is your salary or hourly earnings before any deductions. Net pay (take-home pay) is what actually lands in your bank account after all taxes and deductions are subtracted. Most people are surprised to find their take-home is 65–80% of their gross, depending on their state and filing status.

Traditional 401(k) contributions are pre-tax, which means they reduce your taxable income. If you earn $75,000 and contribute 6%, your taxable income drops to $70,500 — shrinking your federal and state tax bills. The 2026 IRS contribution limit is $23,500 (under age 50) or $31,000 (age 50+). Contributing to a 401(k) often increases your take-home pay relative to the amount you're saving.

As of 2025, nine states levy no individual income tax: Alaska, Florida, Nevada, New Hampshire, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Washington, and Wyoming. Living in one of these states can significantly increase your take-home pay — for example, a $100,000 salary in California could net $10,000–$15,000 more per year if you moved to Texas.

This calculator uses 2025 federal tax brackets and approximate state tax rates. Results are estimates for planning purposes. Actual withholding depends on your exact W-4 elections, additional income, itemized deductions, and other factors. Always verify with your HR department or a tax professional for precise amounts.