Finance

Income Tax Calculator

Calculate your 2026 federal and state income tax with a bracket-by-bracket breakdown, AGI, and effective vs marginal tax rate comparison.

Quick Answer

Federal income tax in 2026 ranges from 10% to 37% using progressive brackets. A single filer earning $100,000 pays approximately $13,000 in federal income tax (13% effective rate) after the $15,700 standard deduction. Your effective rate is always lower than your marginal bracket because only income within each bracket is taxed at that rate.

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Above-the-Line Deductions (optional)

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Disclaimer: This calculator provides estimates based on 2026 federal income tax brackets and does not include FICA taxes, tax credits (Child Tax Credit, Earned Income Credit, etc.), AMT, or Net Investment Income Tax. State tax estimates use simplified top marginal rates. Always consult a qualified tax professional for personalized tax advice. Tax laws are subject to change.
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About This Tool

The Income Tax Calculator computes your estimated 2026 federal and state income tax using the official progressive tax bracket system. Unlike tools that only show a single number, this calculator breaks down exactly how much of your income is taxed at each bracket rate, so you can see precisely where every dollar goes.

The calculator starts with your total income and applies above-the-line deductions (IRA contributions, student loan interest, HSA contributions) to arrive at your Adjusted Gross Income (AGI). It then applies either the standard deduction or your itemized deductions to determine taxable income. Finally, it calculates federal tax bracket by bracket and adds estimated state income tax.

Effective vs Marginal Tax Rate

One of the most misunderstood concepts in personal finance is the difference between your marginal and effective tax rates. Your marginal rate is the tax rate on your next dollar of income -- it is determined by the highest bracket your income reaches. Your effective rate is the actual percentage of your total income paid in federal tax. Thanks to the progressive bracket system, your effective rate is always significantly lower than your marginal rate. A single filer earning $100,000 has a 22% marginal rate but only about a 13% effective rate.

How Above-the-Line Deductions Help

Above-the-line deductions are particularly valuable because they reduce your AGI regardless of whether you itemize or take the standard deduction. A lower AGI can also qualify you for other tax benefits with AGI-based phase-outs. Traditional IRA contributions, student loan interest payments, and HSA contributions are the most common above-the-line deductions for W-2 employees.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between marginal and effective tax rate?
Your marginal tax rate is the rate applied to your last dollar of taxable income -- it is the highest bracket you fall into. Your effective tax rate is the actual percentage of your total income that goes to federal tax. Because the U.S. uses progressive brackets, your effective rate is always lower than your marginal rate. For example, a single filer with $100,000 income has a 22% marginal rate but only about 13% effective rate.
What are above-the-line deductions?
Above-the-line deductions (also called adjustments to income) reduce your Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) before you take the standard or itemized deduction. Common above-the-line deductions include traditional IRA contributions (up to $7,000 for 2026, $8,000 if age 50+), student loan interest (up to $2,500), and HSA contributions ($4,300 individual / $8,550 family for 2026). These deductions are available even if you take the standard deduction.
Should I take the standard or itemized deduction?
Take whichever is larger. The 2026 standard deduction is $15,700 (single) or $31,400 (married filing jointly). Most taxpayers benefit from the standard deduction. You should itemize if your total deductible expenses (mortgage interest, state/local taxes up to $10,000, charitable donations, medical expenses above 7.5% of AGI) exceed the standard deduction amount.
How are the 2026 federal tax brackets structured?
For single filers in 2026: 10% on $0-$11,925, 12% on $11,925-$48,475, 22% on $48,475-$103,350, 24% on $103,350-$197,300, 32% on $197,300-$250,525, 35% on $250,525-$626,350, and 37% on income over $626,350. Married Filing Jointly brackets are approximately double these ranges. Each bracket only applies to income within that range, not to your entire income.
Does this calculator include FICA taxes?
No, this calculator focuses on income tax only (federal and state). FICA taxes (Social Security at 6.2% and Medicare at 1.45%) are separate payroll taxes that apply to earned wages. If you want a complete picture including FICA, use our Paycheck Calculator or Take Home Pay Calculator. Self-employed individuals pay both the employer and employee portions of FICA.

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