Tax & Take-Home Pay Calculator
See how much of your salary you actually keep after taxes and retirement contributions. Optimize your 401(k) to reduce taxes and maximize employer matching.
Income & Filing
Retirement Contributions
Pre-tax contribution (reduces taxable income)
After-tax contribution (shares limit with traditional)
Employer Match
Example: 50% match on first 6% = 3% free money
Monthly Take-Home Pay
$7,842
Annual
$94,102
Effective Tax Rate
27.3%
Where Your Money Goes
Retirement Savings
Your Contribution
$9,000
Employer Match
$4,500
That's 50% free money from your employer!
Tax Rates
Marginal Federal
22%
Total Tax Burden
$40,898
* Estimates based on 2026 tax brackets. Does not account for itemized deductions, credits, or local taxes. Consult a tax professional for personalized advice.
Understanding Your Taxes
Federal Income Tax: Progressive brackets mean you pay different rates on different portions of your income. Higher income = higher marginal rate, but only on the income above each threshold.
FICA Taxes: Social Security (6.2%) has a wage cap ($176,400 in 2026). Medicare (1.45%) has no cap, plus an additional 0.9% on high earners.
State Tax: Varies widely - some states have no income tax, others have flat rates, and some have progressive brackets like federal.
401(k) Tax Benefits
Traditional 401(k): Contributions reduce your taxable income today. You pay taxes when you withdraw in retirement (hopefully at a lower rate).
Roth 401(k): Contributions are after-tax, but withdrawals in retirement are completely tax-free, including all growth.
Employer Match: Free money! Always contribute enough to get the full match - it's an immediate 50-100% return on your contribution.