Understand your tax bracket.
Estimate your federal income tax, discover your marginal tax rate, and see how progressive tax brackets apply to your income.
Tax bracket calculator
Enter your income and filing details below.
How do federal tax brackets work?
The United States uses a progressive federal income tax system. This means different portions of your taxable income are taxed at different rates. Moving into a higher tax bracket does not mean all your income is taxed at that higher rate.
Why your marginal rate isn’t your overall rate
If your top tax bracket is 22%, that rate generally applies only to the portion of your taxable income in the 22% bracket. Earlier portions are taxed at the lower rates that apply to them.
Marginal tax rate vs. effective tax rate
Your marginal tax rate is the rate on the next dollar of taxable income. Your effective tax rate is your estimated federal income tax divided by your income before deductions. Because lower portions of income are taxed at lower rates, the effective rate is usually lower than the marginal rate.
2026 federal income tax brackets
The following thresholds apply to taxable income, after applicable deductions—not directly to gross salary. Select your filing status to see the relevant schedule.
| Tax rate | Taxable income range |
|---|---|
| 10% | $0 – $12,400 |
Source: IRS 2026 tax rate schedules. Review the IRS guidance.
2026 standard deduction amounts
The standard deduction reduces the amount of income subject to federal income tax for eligible taxpayers who use it. Your deduction may be different if you itemize, are claimed as a dependent, or qualify for special rules.
| Filing status | 2026 standard deduction |
|---|---|
| Single | $16,100 |
| Married filing jointly | $32,200 |
| Married filing separately | $16,100 |
| Head of household | $24,150 |
Source: IRS Revenue Procedure 2025-32.
Why filing status matters
Your filing status affects the income ranges for each tax bracket and the standard deduction that may apply. Common statuses include:
- Single: Generally for an unmarried taxpayer who does not qualify for another status.
- Married filing jointly: Generally for eligible married couples who file a joint return.
- Married filing separately: For eligible married taxpayers filing separate returns.
- Head of household: For taxpayers who meet specific IRS requirements, including qualifying household and dependent rules.
Filing status depends on your circumstances under IRS rules. Use the status that applies to you rather than choosing one solely because its estimated tax is lower.
What this calculator does not include
This tool estimates regular federal income tax using the selected filing status, 2026 tax brackets, and the deduction you enter or the standard deduction. It does not calculate every part of a tax return.
- State, city, or local income taxes
- Social Security and Medicare payroll taxes
- Self-employment tax
- Tax credits, refundable credits, and additional taxes
- Alternative minimum tax or special income rules
- Every limitation that may apply to itemized deductions
Actual tax liability may differ based on adjustments to income, dependents, credits, investments, and other tax details.
Tax bracket calculator FAQs
Does moving into a higher tax bracket increase tax on all my income?
No. Federal income tax brackets are marginal. The higher rate applies only to the taxable income that falls within that bracket; lower portions remain taxed at their applicable lower rates.
What is the difference between gross income and taxable income?
Gross income is income before deductions. Taxable income is the amount remaining after applicable adjustments and deductions. The bracket thresholds apply to taxable income.
Why is my effective tax rate lower than my marginal rate?
Because different portions of taxable income are taxed at different rates, the average rate across your income is often lower than the rate applied to your last dollar of taxable income.
Is this calculator for tax year 2026?
Yes. The displayed federal bracket thresholds and standard deduction amounts are for tax year 2026. For a return for a different tax year, use that year’s official IRS figures.
Can I use this estimate to file my tax return?
No. It is an educational estimate, not a tax return or filing service. Check the current IRS instructions and consult a qualified tax professional if you need help with your circumstances.
For authoritative federal tax information, consult the IRS federal income tax rates and brackets and the applicable IRS publications for your tax year.
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