What is FICA?
FICA covers Social Security (6.2%) and Medicare (1.45%) - a combined 7.65% of gross wages, deducted automatically here.
Money calculators
Paycheck Calculator
Estimate your take-home pay after taxes and deductions.
Complete guide
How to use Paycheck Calculator
Enter your gross pay per period, your federal and state tax rates, and any other deductions. The calculator subtracts FICA (Social Security + Medicare, 7.65%) automatically and shows your estimated net take-home pay.
Choose your pay frequency to also see your annualized gross. This gives a close estimate - actual withholding depends on your W-4, retirement contributions, and benefits.
Gross vs net pay
Gross pay is your total earnings before deductions. Net (take-home) pay is what lands in your account after taxes and deductions.
Federal tax brackets
Common marginal rates are 10%, 12%, 22%, 24%, 32%, 35%, and 37%. Use your effective rate for the closest estimate.
Answers
Paycheck Calculator FAQs
What is FICA?
FICA is the Social Security (6.2%) and Medicare (1.45%) payroll tax, totaling 7.65% of gross wages for employees.
How do I find my federal tax rate?
It depends on your income bracket. Common rates are 10%, 12%, 22%, 24%, 32%, 35%, and 37%. Check the current IRS brackets.
Is this calculator exact?
It gives a close estimate. Actual deductions vary with W-4 allowances, 401(k) contributions, and insurance premiums.
What is the difference between gross and net pay?
Gross is total earnings before deductions; net (take-home) is what remains after all taxes and deductions.
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Methodology and examples
Paycheck Calculator - Estimate Your Take-Home Pay: formula, example, and use cases
Maintained by FormatNest. See the methodology, assumptions and sources below.
Formula or method
Paycheck Calculator - Estimate Your Take-Home Pay uses the values entered in its dedicated fields, validates the inputs, and applies the calculation described in the result panel.
Best use cases
Use Paycheck Calculator - Estimate Your Take-Home Pay for planning, comparison, and what-if scenarios before confirming figures with a lender, tax professional, or financial adviser.
Important: For educational planning only. Rates, tax rules, fees, and eligibility vary; confirm important decisions with a qualified professional.
Editorial note: Review the input definitions, units and assumptions before relying on results. Source: IRS Tax Withholding Estimator guidance.