About & methodology

TakeHomeGuide provides free paycheck estimates. All calculations run in your browser; nothing you enter is sent to or stored on a server.

What is included

• Federal income tax using the 2026 brackets and standard deduction (IRS Rev. Proc. 2025-32).
• Social Security (6.2% up to the $184,500 wage base) and Medicare (1.45%, plus 0.9% above $200,000 single / $250,000 married).
• Pre-tax deductions such as a traditional 401(k), which reduce income tax but not Social Security or Medicare.

What is not included

• State and local income taxes (only states with no wage income tax are covered for now).
• Tax credits, itemized deductions, other income, health premiums, or W-4 adjustments.

Withholding differs from final tax owed. For decisions with real money at stake, use the IRS Tax Withholding Estimator or consult a tax professional.