W-2 Paycheck & Take-Home Tax Calculator
Determine your net take-home pay per paycheck after federal withholding, FICA taxes, state taxes, and 401(k) deductions. See your complete net earnings breakdown.
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Fill in your details on the left to see your full tax breakdown and analysis.
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Calculation Methodology & Statutory Rules
Gross Pay per Paycheck = Gross Annual Salary divided by pay periods (e.g.
26 bi-weekly).
Pre-tax deductions like traditional 401(k) lower federal and state taxable income.
Employee FICA tax (6.2% Social Security up to $176,100 cap plus 1.45% Medicare) is deducted from gross pay.
Federal income tax is withheld using 2026 progressive tax brackets after subtracting standard deductions ($15,000 Single / $30,000 Joint).
State income tax is applied based on state residency.
Net Paycheck = Gross Pay - Pre-Tax Deductions - FICA - Federal Tax - State Tax.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1.How does 401(k) contribution lower my taxes?
Pre-tax 401(k) contributions are subtracted from your gross annual income before federal and state income taxes are calculated. Every dollar contributed reduces your taxable income, lowering your top-marginal tax bill.
Q2.What is FICA tax and how is it calculated in 2026?
FICA consists of 6.2% Social Security tax (capped at $176,100 in wages for 2026) and 1.45% Medicare tax (uncapped). An additional 0.9% Medicare Tax applies to wages over $200,000 for single filers ($250,000 for joint filers).
Q3.What is the difference between bi-weekly and semi-monthly pay?
Bi-weekly pay means receiving 26 paychecks per year (every two weeks, usually on Fridays). Semi-monthly pay means receiving 24 paychecks per year (twice a month, such as on the 1st and 15th).
Q4.Which states have no state income tax in 2026?
States with 0% state income tax on W-2 wages include Texas, Florida, Washington, Nevada, Alaska, South Dakota, Tennessee, and Wyoming.
Disclaimer: Results are estimates based on standard tax rules for the 2026 tax year and are provided for informational purposes only. Individual circumstances (deductions, credits, specific state/local rules) may significantly affect your actual tax liability. Always consult a qualified tax professional or accountant for advice specific to your situation.