Federal Income Tax Calculator
Estimate your 2026 federal income tax, effective tax rate, and take-home pay.
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2026 Federal Tax Brackets (Single)
- 10% — $0 to $11,925
- 12% — $11,926 to $48,475
- 22% — $48,476 to $103,350
- 24% — $103,351 to $197,300
- 32% — $197,301 to $250,525
- 35% — $250,526 to $626,350
- 37% — Over $626,350
Brackets are approximate and subject to IRS adjustments.
Tax-Saving Tips
- Max your 401(k) — $23,500 contribution reduces taxable income dollar-for-dollar.
- Use an HSA — Triple tax benefit: deductible contributions, tax-free growth, tax-free withdrawals for medical expenses.
- Itemize if it beats the standard deduction — $15,000 (single) or $30,000 (married) for 2026.
- Tax-loss harvesting — Sell losing investments to offset capital gains.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between marginal and effective tax rate?
Your marginal rate is the rate on your last dollar of income (your "bracket"). Your effective rate is the average rate you pay across all income — always lower than your marginal rate.
Does this calculator include state taxes?
No, this calculator estimates federal income tax only. State tax rates vary from 0% (TX, FL, WA) to 13%+ (CA). Use our Paycheck Calculator for state-specific estimates.
How accurate is this estimate?
This calculator provides a reasonable estimate based on federal brackets and standard deductions. Your actual tax may vary based on credits, deductions, investment income, and other factors.
Disclaimer
This calculator is for educational and estimation purposes only. It does not constitute financial, tax, or investment advice. Results are estimates based on the inputs you provide and may not reflect your actual situation. Consult a qualified financial advisor, tax professional, or lender before making important financial decisions.