Enter your gross annual salary, select your pay frequency (weekly, bi-weekly, semi-monthly, or monthly), choose your state for state income tax estimation, and set your 401(k) contribution percentage. Results update instantly.

The Pay Stub Breakdown table shows exactly how much is deducted for federal tax, state tax, Social Security, Medicare, and 401(k) — both per paycheck and annually. The pie chart visualizes where your gross pay goes.

Download your breakdown as CSV or PDF for budgeting or comparing job offers.

Your take-home pay is significantly less than your gross salary due to various mandatory and voluntary deductions. Understanding each deduction helps you budget accurately and optimize your tax situation.

Federal Income Tax

The U.S. uses a progressive tax system with marginal brackets. This means only the income within each bracket is taxed at that bracket's rate — not your entire income. For example, in 2026, the first ~$11,925 of taxable income is taxed at 10%, the next portion up to ~$48,475 at 12%, and so on. Your taxable income is your gross pay minus pre-tax deductions (like 401(k)) and the standard deduction (~$15,700 for single filers).

FICA: Social Security & Medicare

Social Security is taxed at 6.2% on income up to the wage base ($168,600 in 2026). Medicare is taxed at 1.45% on all income, plus an additional 0.9% surtax on income above $200,000. Unlike income tax, FICA taxes are not reduced by 401(k) contributions or the standard deduction — they apply to your full gross pay.

Pre-Tax vs. Post-Tax Deductions

Pre-tax deductions like traditional 401(k) contributions reduce your taxable income, lowering your federal and state tax bill. Post-tax deductions like Roth 401(k) contributions are taken after taxes and don't reduce your current tax bill, but grow tax-free. Our calculator models traditional (pre-tax) 401(k) contributions.