Income Tax Calculator
Estimate your federal income tax using 2026 brackets. See marginal and effective rates with a bracket-by-bracket breakdown.
Standard deduction: $15,700
Estimated Federal Tax
$10,160
Effective Rate
12.0%
Marginal Rate
22%
After Tax
$74,840
Gross Income$85,000
Deduction−$15,700
Taxable Income$69,300
Bracket Breakdown
10% ($0-$11,925)$11,925$1,193
12% ($11,925-$48,475)$36,550$4,386
22% ($48,475-$103,350)$20,825$4,582
Frequently Asked Questions
How do tax brackets work?+
Tax brackets are marginal — only the income within each bracket is taxed at that rate. Being 'in the 24% bracket' doesn't mean all your income is taxed at 24%. The first $11,925 (single) is taxed at 10%, the next portion at 12%, and so on.
What is the difference between marginal and effective tax rate?+
Your marginal rate is the bracket your last dollar falls in. Your effective rate is total tax divided by total income. Someone earning $85K (single) has a 22% marginal rate but only ~14% effective rate.
Should I take the standard or itemized deduction?+
Take whichever is larger. The 2026 standard deduction is $15,700 (single) or $31,400 (married). Itemize only if your deductible expenses (mortgage interest, state/local taxes up to $10K, charitable giving) exceed the standard deduction.