Why we built it
Paycheck math is surprisingly hard to find explained clearly. Most calculators give you one number and no reasoning, so you cannot tell whether it fits your situation. We wanted calculators that show their work: how much goes to federal income tax, Social Security, Medicare and your state, which rules and thresholds apply, and what the tool leaves out. Alongside the calculators we publish guides that explain the rules in plain English, using the same figures the calculators use.
What we publish
- Calculators for paychecks, hourly and salary conversion, overtime, bonuses, sales tax, state comparisons, self-employment tax and quarterly estimated tax.
- Guides on withholding, pay frequency, bonuses, overtime law, W-4 forms, 1099 versus W-2 work and self-employment deductions.
- State pages for all 50 states and DC, and pages for hourly wages from $15 to $50.
How we keep it accurate
Federal parameters come from IRS and Social Security Administration publications. State data is compiled from the Tax Foundation and checked against state revenue departments. Every tool page lists its sources and when it was last reviewed, and our methodology page lists the simplifications we make. The calculation engine is covered by automated tests.
What we are not
We are not a tax preparer, accountant, law firm or financial adviser, and nothing here is tax, legal or financial advice. Calculators give estimates. For decisions that matter, check the official sources linked on each page or consult a qualified professional. See our disclaimer.
How the site is funded
The site is free to use. It is supported by advertising and by affiliate links to tax and bookkeeping software, which we label clearly and explain in our affiliate disclosure. Advertising and affiliate relationships do not change the calculations or the content of the guides.
Contact
Questions, corrections and suggestions are welcome. See the contact page.