Check if you have multiple jobs or a working spouse
Dependent Amount (Step 3) ($)
$
Extra Withholding (Step 4c) ($)
$
Year-to-Date Earnings ($)
$
Pre-Tax Deductions
401(k) Contribution (%)
%
Health Insurance ($)
$
Other Pre-Tax Deductions ($)
$
Fill in the form and click Calculate to see your breakdown.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is take-home pay calculated in the USA?
Take-home pay is your gross salary minus federal income tax, state income tax (where applicable), Social Security (6.2%), Medicare (1.45%), and any pre-tax deductions like 401(k) contributions or health insurance premiums.
What is FICA tax and how much is withheld?
FICA (Federal Insurance Contributions Act) covers Social Security at 6.2% of wages up to the annual wage base ($168,600 in 2024) and Medicare at 1.45% on all wages. High earners pay an additional 0.9% Medicare surtax above $200,000.
What is the difference between federal and state income tax?
Federal income tax is levied by the US government using progressive brackets (10%–37%). State income tax is imposed by individual states — rates vary widely, and states like Texas, Florida, and Washington have no state income tax at all.
What are pre-tax deductions and how do they help?
Pre-tax deductions (401(k), HSA, FSA, employer health insurance) reduce your taxable gross income before federal and state taxes are calculated, lowering your overall tax liability and increasing your effective take-home pay.
What is the standard deduction for 2024?
For 2024, the standard deduction is $14,600 for single filers, $29,200 for married filing jointly, and $21,900 for heads of household. Most employees who don't itemize use the standard deduction to reduce taxable income.
How accurate is this USA salary calculator?
This calculator provides a reliable estimate using 2024 federal and state tax tables. Actual take-home may differ based on additional withholdings, tax credits, pre-tax benefits, local city taxes, or payroll adjustments made by your employer.