1. What is the Salary Calculator?

This calculator estimates your take-home pay (net pay) after federal tax, state tax, and FICA (Social Security and Medicare) deductions based on 2023 US tax tables.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the following formula:

Where:

• Gross Pay — Your annual salary before taxes
• Federal Tax — Calculated using 2023 IRS tax brackets
• State Tax — Varies by state (some states have no income tax)
• FICA — Social Security (6.2%) and Medicare (1.45%) taxes

3. Understanding Your Paycheck

Details: Your take-home pay is significantly less than your gross salary due to mandatory deductions. Federal tax uses progressive brackets, while state tax varies by location.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter your annual gross salary, select your filing status and state. The calculator will estimate your federal tax, state tax, FICA contributions, and net pay.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why is my net pay less than my salary?
A: Your gross pay is reduced by federal/state taxes and FICA (Social Security and Medicare) contributions.

Q2: Which states have no income tax?
A: As of 2023: Texas, Florida, Washington, Nevada, South Dakota, Wyoming, and Alaska.

Q3: What's the difference between single and head of household?
A: Head of household has lower tax rates but requires you to pay more than half the costs of a home and have a qualifying dependent.

Q4: Why does FICA have a maximum?
A: Social Security tax only applies to the first $160,200 of income (2023 limit). Medicare tax applies to all income.

Q5: Are other deductions included?
A: This calculator shows mandatory deductions only. Your actual paycheck may have additional deductions for benefits, retirement, etc.