Paycheck Calculator
Adjust the inputs below. Results update as you type.
How it works
A paycheck estimate converts gross pay into an approximate net deposit after federal income tax withholding, FICA, and selected state or deduction assumptions. It is designed for planning—comparing salary offers, contribution percentages, or filing status—not for reconciling an exact payroll register.
Start with pay frequency and gross amount (or annual salary converted to the period). Adjust pre-tax retirement contributions, filing status, and state settings if available. FICA has wage-base rules that change year to year; supplemental wages such as bonuses may withhold differently than regular wages.
Compare two scenarios side by side when deciding on 401(k) deferrals or a raise: the “extra” gross is not the same as extra net. For full household cash flow, combine this estimate with budget and tax annualization tools, and confirm final numbers against your employer’s pay stub and IRS Publication 15-T style worksheets.
Input guidance
- Align pay frequency with your actual payroll calendar.
- Enter gross for the period, or convert salary carefully to that period.
- Set retirement deferrals and filing status before reading net pay.
The formula
Net paycheck is estimated as gross pay minus federal withholding, Social Security tax, Medicare tax, and selected state/local tax assumptions, then adjusted for pre-tax deductions.
Worked example
$4,000 monthly gross with 10% pre-tax retirement contribution becomes $3,600 taxable wages before withholding; payroll taxes and withholding are then applied to estimate net pay.
More examples to test
- $90,000 salary, biweekly pay, 10% 401(k): estimate net paycheck sensitivity to deferral changes.
- Same gross with a filing-status change: compare net deposit impact.
How to interpret results
Net pay is for planning cash flow and offer comparisons. Reconcile against a real pay stub before changing elections permanently.
When this can be inaccurate
Employer-specific benefits, local taxes, and supplemental wage methods can differ from simplified withholding assumptions.
Change history
- July 2026: Expanded FICA/withholding planning notes and scenario comparison tips.
- June 2026: Paycheck estimate path quality-reviewed.
Site-wide corrections also appear on the corrections log.
Estimate take-home pay with payroll software
Tax withholding can vary by filing status and state.
Frequently asked questions
Why is my real paycheck different?+
Actual payroll systems include employer-specific deductions, benefit elections, and withholding settings. Use this as a planning estimate, not an exact payroll statement.
Does this include bonuses and overtime?+
It can model them only if entered in gross pay assumptions. Supplemental wages may be withheld differently by payroll rules.
Should I update this during the year?+
Yes. Recalculate when filing status, deductions, contribution rates, or state/local tax assumptions change.
Is this the same as my employer’s pay stub?+
No. Payroll systems add employer-specific benefits and withholding elections. Treat this as a planning estimate and confirm against your stub.
When should I re-run a paycheck estimate?+
Re-run after filing-status changes, new 401(k) or insurance elections, a raise, or a move to a different state or locality.
Guided next steps
Want the full workflow? Use this calculator inside a step-by-step guide.