Payroll Calculator

Calculate employee payroll, taxes, deductions, and net pay. Perfect for HR professionals and small business owners managing payroll.

Calculate Payroll

Payroll Summary

Net Pay
$1,923
$50,000 annual salary, bi-weekly pay

Understanding Payroll Calculations

Payroll calculations involve determining gross pay, calculating various taxes and deductions, and arriving at net pay. Understanding these components is essential for accurate payroll processing.

Key Payroll Components

Gross Pay: The total amount earned before any deductions.

Federal Income Tax: Withheld based on employee's W-4 form and current tax brackets.

State Income Tax: Varies by state, some states have no income tax.

Social Security: 6.2% on wages up to the annual wage base limit.

Medicare: 1.45% on all wages, with additional 0.9% on high earners.

Payroll Best Practices

Stay Updated: Tax rates and wage bases change annually, so keep your calculations current.

Use Reliable Software: Consider using payroll software to ensure accuracy and compliance.

Keep Records: Maintain detailed payroll records for tax and audit purposes.

Frequently Asked Questions About Payroll

What's the difference between gross pay and net pay?

Gross pay is the total amount earned before any deductions. Net pay is the amount the employee actually receives after all taxes, benefits, and other deductions are subtracted from gross pay.

How do I calculate overtime pay?

Overtime is typically calculated at 1.5 times the regular hourly rate for hours worked over 40 in a workweek. Some states have different overtime rules, so check local regulations.

What are pre-tax deductions?

Pre-tax deductions like health insurance, retirement contributions, and flexible spending accounts reduce taxable income, potentially lowering the employee's tax burden while providing valuable benefits.