How is take-home pay calculated?
Your gross pay is reduced by pre-tax deductions (like 401(k) and health premiums), then federal income tax is applied to what remains after the standard deduction, using progressive tax brackets. Separately, FICA taxes โ 6.2% Social Security (up to the wage base) and 1.45% Medicare โ come out of your full gross.
2026 federal tax brackets
Single: 10% to $12,400 ยท 12% to $50,400 ยท 22% to $105,700 ยท 24% to $201,775 ยท 32% to $256,225 ยท 35% to $640,600 ยท 37% above (standard deduction $16,100). Married filing jointly uses the same rates with thresholds and a $32,200 standard deduction roughly double the single figures; head of household sits in between with a $24,150 deduction. Pick your filing status above and the calculator applies the matching brackets and deduction.
What this estimate leaves out
State and local income tax (this is federal only), pre-tax benefits beyond the field above, retirement matching, and itemized deductions. Nine states have no state income tax โ there your real take-home is closer to this figure.