US Paycheck Calculator

What is a Paycheck Calculator?

A paycheck calculator estimates how much money you take home after payroll taxes and withholdings. It converts your gross pay—either entered per pay period or calculated from an hourly rate—into an annual figure, applies federal and payroll taxes, and returns a per-paycheck net amount you can expect to receive.

How this Paycheck Calculator Works

This calculator annualizes your earnings according to the selected pay frequency, subtracts pre-tax contributions to calculate federal taxable income, applies progressive federal tax brackets to estimate income tax, and calculates Social Security and Medicare based on standard rates. An optional state tax percentage is applied to taxable income as an approximation.

Why Use a Paycheck Calculator

Knowing your expected take-home pay helps with budgeting, negotiating salary, and planning contributions to retirement or health accounts. It turns confusing payroll terminology into clear numbers you can use every month to manage expenses or build savings goals.

Limitations and When to Consult a Professional

This online tool gives quick estimates. It does not replace payroll software or tax advice. For complicated situations—multiple jobs, self-employment, local taxes, nonstandard pre-tax benefits, or large one-time bonuses—consult payroll specialists or a tax advisor to get precise withholding calculations.