Estimate your 2026 federal tax
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Key takeaways
- Only income above each threshold is taxed at that bracket's rate — a raise never leaves you with less after federal tax.
- The 2026 standard deduction: $16,100 single, $32,200 married filing jointly, $24,150 head of household.
- Refundable credits (EITC, Child Tax Credit) can cut your bill below zero — this estimate doesn't include them, so your real bill may be lower.
2026 brackets, explained
The U.S. system is marginal: your taxable income fills brackets from the bottom up — 10%, then 12%, then 22%, and so on to 37%. Being "in the 22% bracket" means only your top slice is taxed at 22%; everything beneath it is taxed at the lower rates. That's why your effective rate (tax ÷ total income) is always well below your marginal bracket. Full official tables are in IRS Rev. Proc. 2025-32.
Credits: money this calculator can't see
Credits subtract directly from your tax — and refundable ones pay out even below zero. The Earned Income Tax Credit alone is worth up to several thousand dollars for working households, and it's one of the most commonly unclaimed benefits because low earners aren't required to file. If your income is modest, filing is how you collect — see our guide to current payments and credits.
File free
You never need to pay to file a basic return: IRS Free File covers most incomes online, and VITA sites offer free in-person help for qualifying households. Pair your refund planning with our salary calculator and FPL calculator to see which benefit programs your income level may unlock.
Frequently asked questions
What are the 2026 federal tax brackets?
Seven rates — 10%, 12%, 22%, 24%, 32%, 35%, and 37% — applied to slices of taxable income. For single filers the 10% bracket covers the first $12,400 of taxable income, and the 37% rate starts above $640,600 (per IRS Rev. Proc. 2025-32).
What is the standard deduction for 2026?
$16,100 for single filers and married filing separately, $32,200 for married filing jointly, and $24,150 for head of household.
Does this include state taxes or FICA?
No — it estimates federal income tax only. Social Security and Medicare take another 7.65% of wages, and most states add their own income tax.
Estimates are informational only, not financial advice or an offer of credit — see our disclaimers.