This calculator uses the actual 2025 federal tax brackets and standard deductions for your filing status, the real Social Security wage base cap, and current IRS 401(k) contribution limits — not a flat guessed percentage. State tax is a single estimated rate per state rather than that state's real bracket system, which is the biggest simplification here. It also doesn't model itemized deductions or the Additional Medicare surtax on high earners. Rates are reviewed periodically; see the badge on the homepage for the last review date.

Why is my paycheck less than my hourly rate times my hours?
Federal tax, Social Security, Medicare, and often state tax all come out before you're paid, along with any 401(k) or health insurance deductions you've elected. For most people that's somewhere between 20–35% of gross pay, depending on income, state, and filing status.

What percentage of my paycheck goes to taxes?
It varies by income and state, but federal tax is progressive — you don't pay one flat rate on your whole paycheck, only on the portion that falls in each bracket. Social Security and Medicare together are a fixed 7.65% up to the Social Security wage base. Use the "Where did your money go?" breakdown above for your specific numbers.

Does overtime get taxed at a higher rate?
Not technically — but it can look that way. Overtime pay is taxed the same as regular income; it just gets added on top of what you already earn, which can push some of it into a higher bracket. See the "+ Add overtime" section above for the real after-tax number.