Take-Home-Paycheck Calculator
Adjust the inputs below. Results update as you type.
How it works
FICA taxes: Social Security = 6.2% on wages up to $168,600 (2024); Medicare = 1.45% (+ 0.9% above $200k single). Federal income tax uses progressive brackets. Pre-tax deductions (401k, HSA, FSA, health insurance) reduce taxable income. Post-tax deductions (Roth 401k, life insurance) don't. Withholding is estimated—actual tax liability is settled when you file your annual return.
Input guidance
- Use realistic rates from lender or provider quotes instead of headline averages.
- Model conservative, baseline, and optimistic scenarios before deciding.
- Include recurring real-world costs (fees, taxes, insurance, maintenance) where relevant.
The formula
Net pay = gross pay − federal tax − state/local tax − Social Security and Medicare (FICA) − pre-tax deductions like 401(k) and health insurance.
Worked example
On a $5,000 gross monthly paycheck, after roughly 22% in combined taxes and FICA plus a $300 retirement deduction, take-home pay might land near $3,600.
More examples to test
- Conservative case: use a higher interest rate and lower growth assumptions to stress-test affordability.
- Optimistic case: use a lower rate with stable income assumptions to compare upside potential.
How to interpret results
Treat this as a planning model, not a final approval tool. Compare at least two scenarios and focus on total-cost and cash-flow trade-offs.
When this can be inaccurate
Results can diverge due to fees, changing rates, tax rules, lender policies, and behavior changes that simplified models cannot fully capture.
Change history
- July 2026: Quality-reviewed for publication with formula checks and explanatory copy updates.
Site-wide corrections also appear on the corrections log.
Estimate your net pay after taxes and deductions
Exact paycheck amounts depend on your payroll setup.
Frequently asked questions
Why is take-home so much less than salary?+
Federal and state income tax, Social Security and Medicare, and benefit deductions all come out before you receive your pay.
How do pre-tax deductions help?+
401(k) and many health premiums are deducted before income tax, lowering taxable income so you keep more than the headline contribution suggests.
What is FICA?+
The combined Social Security (6.2%) and Medicare (1.45%) payroll taxes withheld from most US paychecks, matched by your employer.
How should I use this result?+
Treat it as a planning estimate. Compare at least two realistic scenarios, then confirm with statements, quotes, or a qualified professional before acting.
How often should I refresh assumptions?+
Refresh whenever rates, income, costs, or policy limits change materially, and before making irreversible commitments.