Start with the take-home pay you want, then work backward
Pre-tax deductions⌄
Post-tax deductions⌄
Gross pay required to hit your target
This calculator provides estimates for informational purposes only. Results are not guaranteed to be accurate for every individual's tax situation. Consult a tax professional for advice specific to your situation. Tax rates and brackets are based on 2026 federal and state guidelines.
Questions people ask before they run the numbers
How does the calculator solve for gross pay?⌄
It starts with a rough gross estimate, then uses an iterative search to move the estimate up or down until the projected net pay is within a penny of your target.
Can deductions change the gross pay required?⌄
Absolutely. Pre-tax and post-tax deductions both affect how much gross pay you need to land on the same take-home figure.
Is this useful for offers or commission planning?⌄
Yes. It is a practical way to back into the paycheck you need when you only know the after-tax amount you want to preserve.
Why might the required gross feel high?⌄
Federal withholding, state tax, and FICA can take a meaningful share of each extra dollar, so gross pay usually has to rise by more than the target net increase.