You select a filing status (Single, Married Filing Jointly, or Head of Household) and enter your taxable income. The tool walks through the 2026 federal tax brackets progressively, applying each rate only to the income within that bracket's range, then sums the results. It reports the total tax, the marginal rate (top bracket reached), the effective rate (total tax / income), and your after-tax take-home. It does not include state taxes, FICA, credits, or deductions.
Your marginal rate is the percentage on your last dollar of income — the highest bracket you reach. Your effective rate is your total tax divided by total income, which is always lower because earlier dollars are taxed at lower rates. For example, a single filer earning $100,000 has a 22% marginal rate but roughly a 17% effective rate.
No. This shows federal income tax only. Your actual withholding and tax liability also include Social Security (6.2%), Medicare (1.45%), and any state or local income taxes. Credits like the Child Tax Credit or Earned Income Credit can further reduce your federal bill.
Enter taxable income — that's gross income minus deductions (standard or itemized) and any above-the-line adjustments. For 2026, the standard deduction is $16,100 (single), $32,200 (married joint), or $24,150 (head of household).
Yes. The IRS adjusts bracket thresholds annually for inflation. This calculator uses the 2026 tax year brackets. Check IRS Revenue Procedure for the latest year's thresholds.
Long-term capital gains are taxed at separate, lower rates (0%, 15%, or 20%) and are not included in this calculator's bracket calculation. Short-term gains are taxed as ordinary income and would be included in your taxable income figure.
Estimate only. Results reflect your inputs and standard formulas — they are not financial, tax, legal, health, or investment advice. Verify important decisions with a qualified professional.