US Paycheck Calculator 2025

Federal income tax is calculated using progressive tax brackets. For 2025, single filers pay 10% on income up to $11,925, 12% on $11,926–$48,475, 22% on $48,476–$103,350, 24% on $103,351–$197,300, 32% on $197,301–$250,525, 35% on $250,526–$626,350, and 37% on income above $626,350. Married filing jointly brackets are roughly double.

FICA stands for Federal Insurance Contributions Act. It consists of two parts: Social Security tax at 6.2% on wages up to $176,100 (the 2025 wage base), and Medicare tax at 1.45% on all wages. High earners also pay an Additional Medicare Tax of 0.9% on wages above $200,000 (single) or $250,000 (married filing jointly).

No. Nine states have no state income tax: Alaska, Florida, Nevada, New Hampshire, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Washington, and Wyoming. The remaining 41 states and Washington D.C. levy state income tax at rates ranging from under 1% to over 13% (California).

The standard deduction for 2025 is $15,000 for single filers, $30,000 for married filing jointly, and $22,500 for head of household. Most Americans take the standard deduction rather than itemizing, as it is simpler and often results in a lower tax bill.

Gross pay is your total earnings before any deductions. Net pay (take-home pay) is what remains after federal income tax, state income tax, Social Security (6.2%), and Medicare (1.45%) are withheld. Other deductions like health insurance premiums and 401(k) contributions may also reduce your net pay.

Traditional 401(k) contributions are pre-tax, meaning they reduce your taxable income before federal and most state taxes are calculated. For example, contributing $5,000 to a 401(k) reduces your taxable income by $5,000, lowering your tax bill. The contribution limit for 2025 is $23,500 ($31,000 for those 50 and over).