Estimate your federal income tax based on progressive tax brackets and filing status
Estimate your US federal income tax based on simplified progressive tax brackets and standard deductions.
Note: This is a simplified example for demonstration purposes only. Real tax laws are complex and vary greatly depending on state taxes and specific deductions.
This calculator estimates your federal income tax liability based on the progressive tax bracket system used in the United States. Enter your gross income and filing status to see your effective tax rate, total tax owed, and take-home pay. Updated for the 2026 tax year.
The US uses a progressive tax system with 7 brackets: 10%, 12%, 22%, 24%, 32%, 35%, and 37%. You only pay the higher rate on income within each bracket, not on your entire income.
Example for Single filers: 10% on first $11,600 | 12% on $11,601–$47,150 | 22% on $47,151–$100,525 | and so on.
10% on $11,600 = $1,160 | 12% on $35,550 = $4,266 | 22% on $27,850 = $6,127
Total Tax: $11,553 | Effective Rate: 15.4% | Take-home: $63,447
Your effective tax rate is the average rate you actually pay, calculated as total tax divided by gross income. It is always lower than your marginal (top bracket) rate due to progressive taxation.
No, this calculator estimates federal income tax only. State taxes vary significantly. States like Texas and Florida have no state income tax, while California can add up to 13.3%.
The standard deduction for 2026 is approximately $14,600 for single filers, $29,200 for married filing jointly, and $21,900 for head of household.