US Paycheck Calculator (Take-Home Pay)
See your take-home pay each paycheck after federal tax, FICA and your own state rate.
What comes out of a US paycheck
Your gross pay is reduced by federal income tax, Social Security and Medicare (together called FICA), state and local taxes where they apply, and any deductions you choose, such as retirement saving and health insurance. What is left is your take-home pay.
2026 figures used
- Social Security: 6.2% of wages up to the $184,500 wage base.
- Medicare: 1.45% of all wages, plus 0.9% on wages above $200,000 for single filers ($250,000 joint).
- Federal income tax: 2026 brackets and standard deduction, applied to yearly wages after your 401(k).
Example
A $75,000 salary paid every two weeks with 5% to a 401(k) and a 4% state rate gives about $2,147 per paycheck after tax and deductions.
This is an estimate. Employers withhold using the IRS Form W-4 and Publication 15-T, local taxes vary, and some states have extra payroll taxes, so your actual check will differ a little.
Frequently asked questions
Why is my paycheck different?
Withholding depends on your W-4, benefits, pre-tax deductions and local taxes. Use this for planning and check your pay stub for the real figures.
Do 401(k) contributions reduce Social Security tax?
No. They reduce income tax, but Social Security and Medicare are still charged on the full wages.
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