What is Take-Home Pay (Net Pay)?
Take-home pay, or Net Pay, is the actual amount of money deposited into your bank account after all taxes and deductions are subtracted from your total earnings (Gross Pay).
Many employees are surprised when their paycheck is lower than expected. Our AI-enhanced calculator helps you bridge the gap between your hourly rate and your actual budget.
How to Calculate Your Hourly Paycheck?
The math follows a specific order to ensure tax accuracy:
Hourly Rate × Hours Worked
Subtract 401k or Health Savings Account (HSA) contributions before taxes are calculated.
Apply the tax rate (%) to the remaining amount to find the final Net Pay.
Not sure what "Deduction Rate" to enter? For most single filers in the US, a combined rate (Federal + State + FICA) of 20% to 28% is a safe estimate. If you have a high income, try using 30-35%.
Pay Frequency Explained
Understanding your pay cycle is crucial for paying bills on time.
| Frequency | Paychecks per Year | Typical Hours (Per Check) |
|---|---|---|
| Weekly | 52 | 40 Hours |
| Bi-Weekly | 26 | 80 Hours |
| Monthly | 12 | ~173 Hours |
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Pre-Tax Deductions?
These are benefits taken out of your paycheck before taxes are applied. Common examples include 401(k) retirement plans, health insurance premiums, and flexible spending accounts (FSA). They lower your taxable income.
Why is my paycheck different each time?
If you are paid hourly, your check varies based on hours worked. Overtime (usually 1.5x pay) or taking unpaid time off will directly impact your Net Pay.
Financial Disclaimer
This Hourly Paycheck Calculator is a general estimation tool designed for budgeting purposes only. It estimates taxes based on a flat percentage you provide and does not account for specific tax brackets, progressive tax rates, or local deductions. For exact payroll figures, please consult your employer's HR department or a certified tax professional.