Compare Paychecks
Compare two paycheck scenarios side by side — different salaries, states, or 401(k) contributions. See exactly how much more take-home pay one option delivers.
| Scenario A | Scenario B | Delta | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual Gross | $85,000 | $85,000 | — |
| 401(k) Contribution | $5,100 | $5,100 | $0 |
| Federal Tax | $8,748 | $8,748 | $0 |
| FICA | $6,503 | $6,503 | $0 |
| State Tax (Texas / California) | N/A | $3,057 | $3,057 |
| Net Pay (Annual) | $64,650 | $61,592 | -$3,057 |
| Net Pay (per period) | $2,487 | $2,369 | -$118 |
For taxable income under $100,000, the IRS Tax Table you use to file prints one figure for each narrow income band ($25 or $50 wide), calculated at the middle of the band, so your return can differ from this exact bracket calculation by a few dollars.
Annual Net Pay (A)
$64,650Annual Net Pay (B)
$61,592Difference
-$3,057Frequently asked questions
How do I compare two job offers?
Enter each offer's salary, state, and 401(k) contribution in Scenario A and B. The calculator shows your take-home pay for each, factoring federal income tax, FICA, and state income tax. The delta column shows exactly how much more (or less) one scenario nets you.
Which states take the most out of my paycheck?
Nine states have no state income tax: AK, FL, NV, NH, SD, TN, TX, WA, and WY. Among states with income tax, CA, HI, OR, MN, and NJ tend to have the highest top marginal rates. Use this tool to compare two states side by side at your exact salary level.
How much does a 401(k) contribution reduce my take-home pay?
A traditional pre-tax 401(k) contribution reduces your take-home pay by less than the contribution amount, because it also lowers your taxable income. For example, a 6% contribution on an $85,000 salary ($5,100) might only reduce take-home pay by ~$3,900 because you save ~$1,200 in taxes.