Income Tax Calculator

Estimate your federal income tax liability using current tax brackets. See your total tax, effective rate, and take-home pay after taxes.

Ad Space

Calculator

Total Tax

$11,807.50

Effective Tax Rate

15.74%

Take Home Pay

$63,192.50

How It Works

The US federal income tax system uses progressive tax brackets — you pay different rates on different portions of your income. Your effective tax rate is typically much lower than your marginal (top) bracket rate.

For example, if you're in the 22% bracket, you don't pay 22% on all your income. You pay 10% on the first $11,000, 12% on income from $11,001 to $44,725, and 22% only on income above that.

This calculator uses the standard 2025-2026 federal tax brackets for single filers. Your actual tax may differ based on deductions, credits, and filing status.

The Formula

Total Tax = Sum of [taxable income in each bracket × bracket rate] | Effective Rate = Total Tax / Total Income × 100

Each tax bracket applies only to income within that bracket's range. The sum of taxes across all brackets equals your total tax liability. The effective rate is your average tax rate.

Example

Scenario: You earn $75,000 in taxable income as a single filer in 2026.

Result: Your total federal tax is approximately $11,798. Your effective tax rate is 15.7%, even though your marginal bracket is 22%.

Breakdown: $1,100 (10% on first $11,000) + $4,047 (12% on $11,001-$44,725) + $6,651 (22% on $44,726-$75,000) = $11,798.

Ad Space

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between marginal and effective tax rate?
Your marginal rate is the rate you pay on your last dollar of income (your highest bracket). Your effective rate is your total tax divided by total income — the average rate you actually pay.
Do these brackets account for inflation?
Tax brackets are adjusted annually for inflation. The brackets used in this calculator reflect 2025-2026 figures. The IRS typically announces updated brackets each fall for the following tax year.
What are standard deductions?
For 2026, the standard deduction for single filers is approximately $15,000. This reduces your taxable income. The calculator uses taxable income, so subtract your standard deduction from gross income before using.
How do tax credits differ from deductions?
Tax deductions reduce your taxable income, lowering your tax by your marginal rate. Tax credits reduce your tax bill dollar-for-dollar, making them more valuable. Common credits include Child Tax Credit and Earned Income Tax Credit.
How does filing status affect taxes?
Your filing status (single, married filing jointly, married filing separately, head of household) determines your tax brackets and standard deduction. Married filing jointly has wider brackets, often reducing taxes for couples.