SmartAsset Paycheck Calculator 2026
💡 Free Calculator: Calculate your take-home pay based on your salary or hourly rate. This tool considers federal, state, and local taxes, as well as common deductions for 2026.
💰 Calculate Your Paycheck
📊 Salary-Based Paycheck
Income Information
Tax Information
Pre-Tax Deductions (Optional)
After-Tax Deductions (Optional)
⏰ Hourly-Based Paycheck
Income Information
Tax Information
Deductions (Optional)
1. Understanding Paycheck Calculations
Basic Paycheck Formula
\[\text{Net Pay} = \text{Gross Pay} - \text{Deductions} - \text{Taxes}\]Detailed Formula
\[\text{Net Pay} = \text{Gross} - \text{Pre-Tax Deductions} - \text{Federal Tax} - \text{FICA} - \text{State Tax} - \text{After-Tax Deductions}\]Where FICA includes:
\[\text{FICA} = \text{Social Security} + \text{Medicare}\] \[\text{Social Security} = \text{Taxable Income} \times 0.062\] \[\text{Medicare} = \text{Taxable Income} \times 0.0145\]2. Federal Tax Brackets 2026
Single Filers
| Taxable Income | Tax Rate |
|---|---|
| $0 - $11,600 | 10% |
| $11,600 - $47,150 | 12% |
| $47,150 - $100,525 | 22% |
| $100,525 - $191,950 | 24% |
| $191,950 - $243,725 | 32% |
| $243,725 - $609,350 | 35% |
| Over $609,350 | 37% |
Married Filing Jointly
| Taxable Income | Tax Rate |
|---|---|
| $0 - $23,200 | 10% |
| $23,200 - $94,300 | 12% |
| $94,300 - $201,050 | 22% |
| $201,050 - $383,900 | 24% |
| $383,900 - $487,450 | 32% |
| $487,450 - $731,200 | 35% |
| Over $731,200 | 37% |
3. FICA Tax Rates 2026
| Tax Type | Rate | Wage Base Limit |
|---|---|---|
| Social Security | 6.2% | $172,700 (estimated) |
| Medicare | 1.45% | No limit |
| Additional Medicare | 0.9% | Income over $200,000 |
4. Standard Deductions 2026
| Filing Status | Standard Deduction |
|---|---|
| Single | $14,600 |
| Married Filing Jointly | $29,200 |
| Married Filing Separately | $14,600 |
| Head of Household | $21,900 |
5. Common Pre-Tax Deductions
Tax-Advantaged Contributions
- 401(k) / 403(b): Up to $23,500 (2026 limit)
- Traditional IRA: Up to $7,000 (2026 limit)
- Health Insurance Premiums: Often pre-tax through employer
- HSA: Up to $4,150 (individual) or $8,300 (family) for 2026
- FSA: Up to $3,200 for 2026
- Commuter Benefits: Transit and parking
6. Tips to Maximize Your Paycheck
💰 Smart Strategies
- Review your W-4 form annually
- Maximize pre-tax retirement contributions
- Use HSA if eligible (triple tax advantage)
- Consider state tax impact when relocating
- Track and claim all eligible tax credits
7. How SmartAsset Can Help
🎯 Financial Planning Tools
- Free paycheck calculator (this tool)
- Financial advisor matching service
- Retirement planning calculators
- Tax planning resources
- Mortgage and refinance calculators
- Investment analysis tools
💡 2026 Update
Tax laws and rates are updated annually. This calculator uses estimated 2026 federal tax brackets and wage bases. Always verify with official IRS publications and consult with a tax professional for personalized advice.
⚠️ Disclaimer
This calculator provides estimates only and should not be considered financial or tax advice. Actual paychecks may vary based on specific circumstances, local taxes, employer policies, and individual tax situations. For accurate calculations and personalized guidance, consult with a qualified financial advisor or tax professional.