Tax Calculators

Taxes are your largest expense — most people pay 25-35% of their income in federal, state, and FICA taxes combined. These calculators help you understand exactly where your money goes: how much federal tax you owe, how FICA (Social Security + Medicare) reduces your paycheck, and what state taxes apply. The Paycheck Calculator is the most popular tool — it shows your exact take-home pay.

Tax Planning Strategies

The HSA Calculator shows triple-tax-advantage savings. The 401k Calculator projects retirement growth with employer matching. The Roth Conversion Calculator helps you decide whether converting traditional IRA funds to Roth saves taxes long-term. For freelancers, the Self-Employment Tax Calculator shows the full 15.3% FICA burden that surprises many first-time freelancers.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much tax do I actually pay?▾

Most W-2 employees pay 22-32% effective tax rate (federal income tax + FICA + state). On a $75,000 salary: approximately $18,000-24,000 in total taxes, taking home $51,000-57,000. Self-employed individuals pay an additional 7.65% in self-employment tax (the employer half of FICA). Use the Paycheck Calculator for your exact breakdown.

Should I contribute to a Roth or traditional 401k?▾

If you expect to be in a higher tax bracket in retirement: Roth (pay taxes now at a lower rate). If you expect a lower bracket in retirement: traditional (defer taxes). Most young professionals benefit from Roth because their income (and tax bracket) will likely increase. Use our 401k Calculator to model both scenarios.

Understand Your Tax Burden

Tax Planning Strategies

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