North Carolina Wage Calculator
Use this calculator to estimate your net pay in North Carolina after federal, state, and FICA taxes, as well as common deductions. This tool provides an estimate based on current tax laws and common withholding methods.
Federal Withholding Information
North Carolina Withholding Information
Deductions (Annual Amounts)
Understanding Your North Carolina Paycheck
Navigating your paycheck can sometimes feel complex, especially with various taxes and deductions. This North Carolina Wage Calculator aims to demystify the process by providing an estimate of your take-home pay.
Gross Pay
Your gross pay is the total amount of money you earn before any deductions are taken out. This can be an annual salary or an hourly wage multiplied by the hours worked.
Federal Income Tax
This is the tax collected by the U.S. government. The amount withheld from your paycheck depends on your gross income, your filing status (Single, Married Filing Jointly, Head of Household), and the number of dependents/allowances you claim on your W-4 form. The federal tax system is progressive, meaning higher earners pay a larger percentage of their income in taxes.
FICA Taxes (Social Security & Medicare)
- Social Security: This tax funds benefits for retirees, disabled workers, and survivors. For 2024, the employee contribution rate is 6.2% on earnings up to $168,600.
- Medicare: This tax funds health insurance for individuals aged 65 or older, and for some younger people with disabilities. The employee contribution rate is 1.45% on all earnings, with no income limit.
Together, these are often referred to as FICA (Federal Insurance Contributions Act) taxes.
North Carolina State Income Tax
North Carolina has a flat income tax rate. For 2024, the individual income tax rate is 4.25%. However, your taxable income is reduced by a standard deduction and any dependents you claim, which can lower your overall state tax liability.
Pre-Tax Deductions
These are deductions taken from your gross pay before taxes are calculated. Common examples include contributions to a 401(k) retirement plan, health insurance premiums, and Flexible Spending Account (FSA) contributions. Pre-tax deductions reduce your taxable income, thereby lowering your federal and state income tax obligations.
Post-Tax Deductions
These deductions are taken from your pay after all applicable taxes have been calculated and withheld. Examples include contributions to a Roth 401(k), union dues, or certain charitable contributions. While they don't reduce your taxable income, they still impact your net take-home pay.
Net Pay
Your net pay, also known as take-home pay, is the amount of money you receive after all taxes and deductions have been subtracted from your gross pay. This is the actual amount that gets deposited into your bank account or paid to you.
Disclaimer: This calculator provides an estimate for informational purposes only. Actual withholdings may vary based on specific circumstances, additional deductions, and changes in tax laws. Consult with a qualified financial advisor or tax professional for personalized advice.