How the hourly paycheck calculator works
Your hourly paycheck starts with the number of hours you work and your hourly wage. Regular hours are multiplied by your hourly rate, while overtime hours can be calculated using the selected overtime multiplier.
The calculator then estimates federal income tax, Social Security and Medicare taxes, state income tax, and the deductions you enter. The remaining amount is your estimated take-home pay.
Basic hourly pay formula:
Regular gross pay = hourly rate × regular hours
Overtime pay = hourly rate × overtime multiplier × overtime hours
Estimated annual gross pay = weekly gross pay × 52
What information do you need?
For a useful estimate, enter the information that matches your normal payroll situation as closely as possible.
- Your hourly wage
- Regular hours worked each week
- Average overtime hours, if applicable
- Pay frequency
- Filing status
- Number of dependents
- State where you work or live for payroll purposes
- Additional withholding, if applicable
- Pre-tax and post-tax deductions
Hourly pay vs. take-home pay
Your hourly wage is not the same as the amount that reaches your bank account. Gross pay is the amount earned before taxes and deductions. Take-home pay is what remains after estimated taxes and deductions.
Why your paycheck may be lower than expected
Federal income tax, Social Security, Medicare, state taxes, retirement contributions, health insurance, and other payroll deductions can all reduce the amount of each paycheck.
Understanding overtime pay
Overtime can substantially increase gross earnings because overtime hours may be paid at a higher rate than regular hours. This calculator lets you enter average overtime hours and choose an overtime multiplier.
For example, at an hourly wage of $20 and a 1.5× overtime rate, an overtime hour would be calculated at $30 before taxes and deductions.
Frequently asked questions
How do I calculate my annual salary from an hourly wage?
For a basic full-time estimate, multiply your hourly wage by your regular hours per week and then by 52. Overtime, unpaid time off, bonuses, and other earnings can change the actual annual amount.
How is overtime included?
Enter your average overtime hours per week and choose the applicable multiplier. The calculator adds regular weekly earnings and overtime earnings before estimating annual taxes and take-home pay.
Does this calculator include federal taxes?
Yes. The calculator uses PaycheckMint's 2026 tax estimation engine to estimate federal income tax based on the information entered.
Does it include Social Security and Medicare?
Yes. Estimated employee Social Security and Medicare taxes are included in the paycheck breakdown.
Does my state affect my paycheck?
Yes. State income tax can vary significantly. Select your state to include the calculator's state-tax estimate.
Is the result the exact amount I will receive?
No. The result is an estimate. Actual payroll withholding can differ because employers use payroll systems and withholding information that may include additional local taxes, benefits, W-4 settings, and other adjustments.