How to Use the Take-Home Pay Calculator (US & UK)
Your take-home pay is the amount you actually receive after taxes and deductions. This calculator helps you estimate your net pay per paycheck and your net pay per year.
1) Choose Your Country
Use the tabs to pick United States or United Kingdom. The calculator uses different rules for each country (federal/FICA for the US, PAYE-style income tax + NI for the UK).
2) Enter Gross Pay + Pay Frequency
Enter your gross pay amount for the selected frequency (weekly, bi-weekly, monthly, etc.). For Hourly, enter your hourly rate and hours per week.
3) Pre-Tax vs Post-Tax Deductions
Pre-tax deductions (like some retirement or benefits) reduce taxable income. Post-tax deductions reduce your final paycheck after taxes are calculated.
4) US Filing Status + Optional State
In the US tab, choose your filing status. If you know your state tax rate, you can enter it. Otherwise, the tool uses a simple estimate for a quick idea (and returns 0% for well-known “no income tax” states).
5) UK Income Tax + National Insurance
In the UK tab, the calculator estimates income tax and employee NI. Scottish income tax can be different, so Scottish mode is optional.
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Frequently Asked Questions
1) Is this take-home pay calculator 100% accurate?
It’s an estimate. Payroll rules vary by state, locality, benefits, and your exact tax situation. Use this for planning and comparisons.
2) What should I put in gross pay?
Enter your gross pay amount for the selected frequency. For example, if you’re paid bi-weekly, enter your gross bi-weekly amount.
3) What are pre-tax deductions?
Pre-tax deductions are withheld before income tax is calculated (for example, certain retirement or health deductions).
4) Why is state tax optional in the US?
Because state tax rules differ a lot. If you don’t know your exact rate, you can skip it or enter a simple estimate.
5) Does the UK result include pension and student loans?
This version includes deductions you enter plus estimated income tax and employee NI. Student loans and some pension rules can vary, so you can model them using deductions if needed.