Payroll Tax Calculator (US)

This payroll tax calculator estimates US payroll taxes, Social Security, Medicare, federal withholding, and net pay using simplified assumptions. It helps employees and employers understand how gross pay turns into take-home pay.

Payroll tax is not one single tax. A paycheck may include federal income tax withholding, Social Security tax, Medicare tax, additional Medicare tax for higher earners, state taxes, local taxes, and pre-tax or post-tax deductions.

If gross pay is USD 5,000 for the month, payroll deductions can include federal withholding plus Social Security and Medicare. The net pay is what remains after those taxes and any benefits or retirement deductions.

This distinction matters when budgeting. A salary offer or hourly wage is not the same as spendable income after payroll taxes and deductions.

Use payroll estimates when comparing job offers, checking a new paycheck, planning benefits elections, or estimating the impact of a raise.

For exact payroll, confirm with your employer's payroll system, current IRS tables, state rules, and benefit deductions.

Gross pay is useful for comparing offers, but spendable pay is what supports rent, bills, savings, and everyday spending. The gap can be large once tax, benefits, and retirement contributions are included.

When reviewing a paycheck, separate mandatory taxes from voluntary deductions. Increasing retirement contributions may lower take-home pay now while improving long-term savings.