What this calculator shows you
- Tax Withholding
- Calculate federal and state withholding
- FICA Taxes
- Include Social Security and Medicare
- Pre-tax Deductions
- Factor in 401k, HSA, insurance
- Net Pay
- See your actual take-home amount
Common Deductions
Federal income tax, state income tax, Social Security (6.2% up to $184,500 in 2026), Medicare (1.45%, plus 0.9% above $200K), health insurance, retirement contributions, and other benefits. Pre-tax deductions reduce your taxable income.
Optimizing Take Home
Maximize pre-tax deductions (401k, HSA, FSA) to reduce taxable income. Adjust W-4 withholding to avoid large refunds—that is an interest-free loan to the government.
Questions people ask
Why is my take-home pay less than expected?
Many people underestimate FICA taxes (7.65% combined), state taxes, and benefit deductions. Review your pay stub to understand each deduction.
Should I adjust my withholding for a bigger refund?
Large refunds mean you are overpaying throughout the year. While a refund feels nice, that money could have been earning interest or paying down debt. Aim for a small refund or small amount owed.
Education only, not personalized financial, tax or investment advice. Results are estimates based on the numbers you enter; real returns vary and losses happen.