How to use
- Enter the gross amount of one paycheck and how often you are paid. Switch to hourly if you are paid by the hour.
- Choose filing status and state, then add W-4 adjustments, pre-tax and post-tax deductions.
- Read net pay and each withholding line. Print a stub-style summary or copy the figures.
Worked example: $2,500 twice a month, single, Texas
Twenty-four checks of $2,500.00 make $60,000 a year. Minus the $16,100 standard deduction leaves $43,900 taxable. Federal tax is $1,240 on the first $12,400 plus 12% of $31,500, $5,020 a year, which is $209.17 per check.
Social Security is $155.00 and Medicare $36.25 per check. With no state tax, net pay is $2,500.00 − $209.17 − $155.00 − $36.25 = $2,099.58.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between gross and net pay?
Gross is what you earn before anything is taken out. Net is what lands in your account after taxes and deductions.
Which taxes are included?
Federal income tax, state income tax for all 50 states and DC, Social Security and Medicare. Local taxes are not included.
How do I enter a 401(k) contribution?
Put the per-paycheck amount in pre-tax deductions. It lowers taxable wages. Roth contributions go in post-tax deductions.
Can I see monthly take-home from a bi-weekly check?
Yes. The projection table converts your check to weekly, bi-weekly, semi-monthly, monthly and annual amounts with taxes recomputed for each frequency.
Why does my real paycheck differ?
Employers may use the wage bracket method, you may have local taxes, benefits, garnishments or a mid-year W-4 change. This tool is an estimate for planning.
Is the 2026 data up to date?
The tax tables carry a verified-on date shown under the result. They are updated when the IRS and states publish changes.