Federal Income Tax Calculator
Enter your taxable income and filing status to see your 2026 federal tax, effective rate, and the marginal bracket your next dollar falls into.
How this calculator works
The US tax system is progressive: each slice of income is taxed at its own bracket rate. The calculator applies the 2026 brackets (10% through 37%) to your taxable income, sums the slices, and reports the total. Your effective rate is total tax divided by income; your marginal rate is the bracket your next dollar would land in. Taxable income is gross income minus deductions, so it is usually well below your salary.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between marginal and effective rate?
Your marginal rate applies only to the next dollar you earn. Your effective rate is total tax divided by total income — always lower, because early dollars are taxed at the lower brackets. You never owe 37% on all your income.
Does this include payroll (FICA) taxes?
No — this calculator covers federal income tax only. Social Security and Medicare taxes are separate: 6.2% and 1.45% withheld from wages, up to the 2026 wage base of $184,500.
What about the standard deduction?
The 2026 standard deduction is $16,100 for single filers and $32,200 for married couples filing jointly, with an extra amount at 65+. If you entered your salary, subtract your deduction (or itemized amount) to get taxable income.
Disclaimer: Results are estimates for general information only and do not constitute financial, tax, or legal advice. Figures reflect 2026 rules and may change. Always confirm current limits and consult a qualified professional before making decisions. Official figures: IRS.gov · 2026 limits per IRS tax inflation adjustments.