How We Calculate Paycheck Take-Home Pay
All calculations on PrivatePaycheck use official 2026 IRS and state tax authority data. Every formula runs entirely in your browser — we never see your numbers.
Data Sources
- Federal tax brackets: IRS Rev. Proc. 2025-xx (2026 inflation adjustments)
- Standard deduction 2026: $15,000 single / $30,000 married filing jointly
- FICA rates: Social Security 6.2% (wage base $176,100) + Medicare 1.45%
- State income tax rates: Each state Department of Revenue official rate schedules
- State SDI/SUI: State workforce agency publications
Federal Tax Brackets 2026 (Single Filer)
| Rate | Taxable Income Range |
|---|---|
| 10% | $0 – $11,925 |
| 12% | $11,926 – $48,475 |
| 22% | $48,476 – $103,350 |
| 24% | $103,351 – $197,300 |
| 32% | $197,301 – $250,525 |
| 35% | $250,526 – $626,350 |
| 37% | Over $626,350 |
Calculation Formula
- Start with gross annual salary
- Subtract pre-tax deductions (401k, HSA, health insurance premiums)
- Subtract standard deduction ($15,000 single / $30,000 MFJ) to get taxable income
- Apply federal tax brackets progressively
- Calculate FICA: Social Security 6.2% on first $176,100 + Medicare 1.45% on all wages
- Apply state income tax using each state official rate schedule
- Apply any state-specific payroll taxes (CA SDI, NJ UI, NY SDI, etc.)
- Result = net take-home pay
Important Limitations
Our calculators provide estimates for single filers taking the standard deduction unless otherwise specified. Actual withholding may differ based on W-4 elections, pre-tax benefit deductions, supplemental wages, and local taxes not covered in our state tables.
This tool is for educational and planning purposes only and does not constitute tax advice. For precise withholding, consult a tax professional or use the IRS Tax Withholding Estimator.