Use this calculator to estimate your net take-home pay in Texas. Texas does not have a state income tax, so your paycheck will primarily be affected by federal income tax, FICA taxes (Social Security and Medicare), and any pre-tax or post-tax deductions you may have.
Bi-Weekly (26 pay periods)
Weekly (52 pay periods)
Semi-Monthly (24 pay periods)
Monthly (12 pay periods)
Single
Married Filing Jointly
Head of Household
Estimated Paycheck Breakdown
Gross Pay:$0.00
Pre-Tax Deductions:$0.00
Taxable Gross:$0.00
Federal Income Tax:$0.00
Social Security Tax (6.2%):$0.00
Medicare Tax (1.45%):$0.00
Texas State Income Tax:$0.00
Post-Tax Deductions:$0.00
Estimated Net Pay:$0.00
Understanding Your Texas Paycheck
Navigating your paycheck can sometimes feel complex, but understanding the components is key to managing your finances. In Texas, the process is somewhat simplified compared to many other states because Texas does not impose a state income tax on wages. This means a larger portion of your gross pay goes directly to you, after federal taxes and other deductions.
Key Components of Your Texas Paycheck:
1. Gross Pay
This is your total earnings before any taxes or deductions are taken out. It's calculated based on your hourly wage multiplied by hours worked, or your salary for the pay period.
2. Pre-Tax Deductions
These are amounts subtracted from your gross pay before federal income tax is calculated. Common pre-tax deductions include contributions to a 401(k) or 403(b) retirement plan, health insurance premiums, Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs), and Health Savings Accounts (HSAs). Because these deductions reduce your taxable income, they can lower your overall tax liability.
3. Taxable Gross
This is your gross pay minus any pre-tax deductions. Federal income tax and FICA taxes are calculated based on this amount.
4. Federal Income Tax
This is the largest tax deduction for most individuals. The amount withheld depends on several factors, including your gross pay, your filing status (Single, Married Filing Jointly, Head of Household), and any adjustments you make on your W-4 form (such as the number of dependents or additional withholding). The U.S. operates on a progressive tax system, meaning higher earners pay a higher percentage of their income in taxes.
5. FICA Taxes (Social Security and Medicare)
FICA stands for Federal Insurance Contributions Act. These are mandatory federal taxes that fund Social Security and Medicare programs.
Social Security Tax: This is 6.2% of your taxable gross pay, up to an annual wage base limit (e.g., $168,600 for 2024). Once you earn above this limit in a calendar year, you no longer pay Social Security tax on additional earnings.
Medicare Tax: This is 1.45% of your taxable gross pay. Unlike Social Security, there is no wage base limit for Medicare tax; it applies to all your earnings.
6. Texas State Income Tax
Zero! This is a significant advantage for Texas residents. The state of Texas does not levy a personal income tax on wages. This means you won't see a deduction for state income tax on your paycheck.
7. Post-Tax Deductions
These deductions are taken out of your pay *after* all applicable taxes have been calculated and withheld. Examples include Roth 401(k) contributions, union dues, garnishments, or certain charitable contributions.
8. Net Pay
This is your "take-home pay" – the amount you actually receive after all taxes and deductions have been subtracted from your gross pay.
Example Calculation:
Let's say you earn $2,000 bi-weekly, are Single, have no dependents, and have $100 in pre-tax deductions and $20 in post-tax deductions.
Gross Pay: $2,000.00
Pre-Tax Deductions: $100.00
Taxable Gross: $1,900.00 ($2,000 – $100)
Social Security Tax (6.2% of $1,900): $117.80
Medicare Tax (1.45% of $1,900): $27.55
Estimated Federal Income Tax (based on simplified W-4 for Single, no dependents): Approximately $150.00 (this varies based on annual income and specific W-4 settings)