Paycheck Calculator

Calculate your net pay, taxes, and deductions instantly. Free for US employees.

Paycheck Calculator

$
Enter your hourly wage or annual salary
Standard full-time is 40 hours/week
%
Estimate based on your tax bracket
%
Varies by state. Average is 5-7%

Deductions (Optional)

$
401(k), health insurance, etc.
$
Union dues, garnishments, etc.

Paycheck Results

Gross Pay

$0.00

per pay period

Net Pay (Take Home)

$0.00

per pay period

Detailed Breakdown

Description Amount % of Gross
Gross Pay $0.00 100%
Federal Tax $0.00 0%
State Tax $0.00 0%
FICA (Social Security & Medicare) $0.00 0%
Pre-tax Deductions $0.00 0%
Post-tax Deductions $0.00 0%
Net Pay (Take Home) $0.00 0%

Paycheck Distribution

Annual Projection

Based on your current pay frequency, your estimated annual take-home pay is:

$0.00

How Paycheck Calculations Work

Understanding how your paycheck is calculated can help you better manage your finances and plan for the future. This paycheck calculator uses standard formulas to estimate your take-home pay based on the information you provide.

Key Formulas Used

For Hourly Employees:

Gross Pay = Hourly Wage × Hours Worked × Pay Period Multiplier

For Salaried Employees:

Gross Pay = Annual Salary ÷ Number of Pay Periods

Tax Calculations:

Federal Tax = (Gross Pay - Pre-tax Deductions) × Federal Tax Rate

State Tax = (Gross Pay - Pre-tax Deductions) × State Tax Rate

FICA Tax = (Gross Pay - Pre-tax Deductions) × 7.65% (6.2% Social Security + 1.45% Medicare)

Net Pay Formula:

Net Pay = Gross Pay - (Federal Tax + State Tax + FICA Tax + Post-tax Deductions)

Example Calculation

Let's say you earn $25 per hour, work 40 hours per week, and get paid bi-weekly:

  • Gross Pay: $25 × 80 hours = $2,000 per pay period
  • Federal Tax (12%): $2,000 × 0.12 = $240
  • State Tax (5%): $2,000 × 0.05 = $100
  • FICA Tax (7.65%): $2,000 × 0.0765 = $153
  • Net Pay: $2,000 - $240 - $100 - $153 = $1,507
Important: This paycheck calculator provides estimates only. Actual paychecks may vary based on your specific tax situation, additional deductions, benefits, and local regulations. Always consult with a tax professional or HR department for precise calculations.

Frequently Asked Questions

This calculator provides a reliable estimate based on standard tax rates and formulas. However, actual paychecks may vary due to factors like additional state/local taxes, specific deductions, benefits, overtime, bonuses, and your exact tax filing status. For precise calculations, consult with your HR department or a tax professional.

Pre-tax deductions are taken from your paycheck before taxes are calculated, reducing your taxable income. Examples include 401(k) contributions, health insurance premiums, and flexible spending accounts. Post-tax deductions are taken after taxes are calculated and include items like Roth IRA contributions, union dues, wage garnishments, and charitable donations.

Federal tax rates depend on your income level and filing status (single, married filing jointly, etc.). You can refer to IRS tax brackets for current rates. State tax rates vary widely by state—some states have no income tax, while others have progressive or flat tax systems. Check your state's department of revenue website for specific rates. This calculator uses typical averages that you can adjust based on your situation.

FICA (Federal Insurance Contributions Act) tax funds Social Security and Medicare programs. It's a flat percentage (7.65% for employees) that's separate from federal income tax. The rate consists of 6.2% for Social Security (on income up to the annual limit) and 1.45% for Medicare (no income limit). Self-employed individuals pay both the employee and employer portions, totaling 15.3%.

Yes! You can export your paycheck calculations in two formats:
  • CSV Export: Download your breakdown as a spreadsheet for further analysis in Excel or Google Sheets.
  • PDF Export: Generate a printable PDF document with your results, perfect for sharing or keeping records.
Use the export buttons in the results section after calculating your paycheck.

Quick Tips

  • Review your pay stubs regularly
  • Adjust W-4 withholding if getting large refunds/owing taxes
  • Maximize pre-tax deductions when possible
  • Save at least 20% of take-home pay
  • Plan for irregular expenses with each paycheck

Common Pay Frequencies

Frequency Pay Periods/Year
Weekly 52
Bi-weekly 26
Semi-monthly 24
Monthly 12
Annually 1
Important Disclaimer

This paycheck calculator provides estimates for informational purposes only. Results are not guaranteed to be accurate or complete. Do not make financial, legal, or employment decisions based solely on these calculations. Consult with qualified professionals for advice specific to your situation.

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