Federal Tax Withholding Estimator
Estimate your federal income tax withholding based on 2024 tax brackets.
Weekly
Bi-weekly (26/year)
Semi-monthly (24/year)
Monthly
Single
Married Filing Jointly
Head of Household
Estimated Federal Withholding (Period):
$0.00
Additional Withholding:
$0.00
Total Tax Withheld (Period):
$0.00
Estimated Net Take-Home (Period):
$0.00
Estimated Annual Tax Liability:
$0.00
How to Understand Tax Withholding
Tax withholding is the amount of federal income tax your employer deducts from your paycheck and sends to the IRS on your behalf. This calculator uses the progressive tax bracket system to estimate your liability. Because the U.S. uses a progressive tax system, your "effective" tax rate is usually lower than your "marginal" tax bracket.
The Calculation Logic
To calculate withholding, we first determine your annual gross income by multiplying your period pay by the frequency (e.g., 26 for bi-weekly). We then subtract the 2024 Standard Deduction based on your filing status:
- Single: $14,600
- Married Filing Jointly: $29,200
- Head of Household: $21,900
Once the taxable income is determined, we apply the 10%, 12%, 22%, 24%, 32%, 35%, and 37% brackets progressively. Finally, the annual total is divided back into pay periods.
Example Scenario
If you are Single and earn $2,500 bi-weekly, your annual gross is $65,000. After the $14,600 standard deduction, your taxable income is $50,400. You would pay 10% on the first $11,600, 12% on income up to $47,150, and 22% on the remaining amount. This results in an estimated bi-weekly federal withholding of approximately $243.00.
Why Estimating Matters
If too little is withheld, you may owe a large sum and potentially penalties during tax season. If too much is withheld, you are essentially giving the government an interest-free loan until you receive your refund. Using a withholding calculator helps you adjust your W-4 form to reach your financial goals.