Tax Calculator
Estimate your federal income tax with this easy tax calculator. Enter your income, filing status, and deductions to get a quick estimate of your tax liability. Ideal for planning ahead, understanding tax brackets, and avoiding surprises during tax season.
Income & Deductions
Results
Enter your income and deductions to estimate taxes.
How Federal Income Tax Works
The United States uses a progressive tax system, meaning higher income is taxed at higher rates — but only the income within each bracket is taxed at that bracket's rate. For example, if you're in the 22% bracket, only the dollars above the lower threshold are taxed at 22%; the income below that threshold is still taxed at 10% and 12%.
This is why your effective tax rate (total tax ÷ total income) is always lower than your marginal tax rate (the rate on your last dollar of income). Understanding the difference helps you make smarter decisions about retirement contributions, capital gains timing, and deductions.
2024 Federal Tax Brackets (Single)
| Taxable Income | Tax Rate |
|---|---|
| $0 – $11,600 | 10% |
| $11,601 – $47,150 | 12% |
| $47,151 – $100,525 | 22% |
| $100,526 – $191,950 | 24% |
| $191,951 – $243,725 | 32% |
| $243,726 – $609,350 | 35% |
| Over $609,350 | 37% |
How to Use This Calculator
- Enter your annual gross income (wages, salary, and other taxable income).
- Select your filing status — single or married filing jointly.
- Enter your deduction amount (the standard deduction is pre-filled for the most common case).
- Click Calculate to see your estimated federal tax and effective tax rate.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the standard deduction for 2024?
For tax year 2024, the standard deduction is $14,600 for single filers and $29,200 for married filing jointly. You can take the standard deduction instead of itemizing if your total itemized deductions (mortgage interest, charitable contributions, state and local taxes, etc.) are less than the standard amount.
Does this calculator include state income tax?
No — this calculator estimates federal income tax only. State income tax rates vary widely, from 0% in states like Texas, Florida, and Washington to over 13% in California. To get a complete picture of your tax burden, add your state's income tax on top of the federal estimate.
What's the difference between my marginal and effective tax rate?
Your marginal tax rate is the rate applied to your last dollar of income (your top bracket). Your effective tax rate is the average rate across all your income — total tax divided by total income. The effective rate is always lower than the marginal rate because the lower brackets are taxed at lower rates.
Worked Example
A single filer earns $65,000 in wages and takes the $14,600 standard deduction for 2024.
Gross income
$65,000
Standard deduction
−$14,600
Taxable income
$50,400
| Bracket | Income in bracket | Tax owed |
|---|---|---|
| 10% ($0–$11,600) | $11,600 | $1,160.00 |
| 12% ($11,601–$47,150) | $35,550 | $4,266.00 |
| 22% ($47,151–$50,400) | $3,250 | $715.00 |
Total federal tax
$6,141
Effective tax rate
$6,141 ÷ $65,000 = 9.4%
Even though this filer's top bracket is 22%, their effective rate is 9.4% because most income is taxed at 10% and 12%.
What Your Result Means
Your estimated tax is the federal income tax owed before credits, withholding, or payments. If your employer withholds taxes from each paycheck, compare this estimate to what has been withheld year-to-date to see if you are on track. To see how your paycheck take-home compares, use the Salary After Tax Calculator, which also accounts for Social Security and Medicare contributions. If you contribute to a 401(k), use the 401(k) Calculator to see how pre-tax contributions reduce your taxable income.
Disclaimer: This calculator estimates federal income tax only using 2024 brackets. It does not account for state income tax, self-employment tax, capital gains, alternative minimum tax (AMT), tax credits, or other adjustments. Results are for general informational purposes and are not tax advice. Consult a qualified tax professional or the IRS website for guidance specific to your situation.