After-Tax Income: Why It’s Lower Than You Expect
Marginal vs. Effective Tax Rate
A common misunderstanding: "I'm in the 22% tax bracket, so the government takes 22% of my money."
False.
The US uses a progressive tax system.
- The first chunk of your money is taxed at 10%.
- The next chunk at 12%.
- Only the money above a certain threshold is taxed at 22%.
Your Effective Tax Rate is the actual percentage of your total income that goes to the IRS. It is always lower than your marginal bracket.
The FICA Factor
While income tax is progressive, FICA (Federal Insurance Contributions Act) is flat.
- Social Security: 6.2%
- Medicare: 1.45%
- Total: 7.65%
This hits everyone, from minimum wage workers to high earners, equally (until the Social Security cap).
State Taxes Add Up
If you live in California, New York, or Oregon, state taxes can take another 5-10% of your income.
However, states like Texas, Florida, and Washington have 0% state income tax. This can mean thousands of dollars more in your pocket annually.
Over-Withholding
If you get a huge tax refund every spring ($3,000+), your monthly after-tax income is lower than it needs to be. You are essentially giving the government an interest-free loan.
The Fix: Adjust your W-4 form with your employer to lower withholding and increase your monthly paycheck.
Summary
After-tax income is the only income that matters for spending. Don't be fooled by the gross salary number.
Calculate your true earning power with our After-Tax Income Calculator.