Payroll Check Estimator
This free payroll calculator provides estimates only and should not be used as a substitute for professional payroll software, tax advice, or legal guidance.
How this free payroll calculator helps
If you need a quick paycheck estimate, this free payroll calculator gives you a simple way to go from gross pay to net pay. It works for both hourly and salary employees, includes overtime and bonus pay, and lets you estimate major payroll taxes and deductions.
Whether you're a small business owner, freelance bookkeeper, HR generalist, or employee checking a pay stub, this tool can help you understand where each dollar goes before payday.
What the calculator includes
- Hourly pay and overtime calculations
- Salary conversion by pay frequency (weekly, biweekly, semi-monthly, monthly)
- Pre-tax deduction handling
- Federal, state, and local withholding estimates
- Social Security and Medicare (FICA) estimates
- Post-tax deduction inputs
Payroll formula used
1) Gross pay
Gross pay is the total amount earned for the pay period before deductions.
- Hourly: (Hourly Rate × Regular Hours) + (Hourly Rate × Overtime Hours × Overtime Multiplier) + Bonus
- Salary: (Annual Salary ÷ Paychecks Per Year) + Bonus
2) Taxable wages
Taxable wages are estimated as gross pay minus pre-tax deductions.
3) Total payroll taxes
Taxes are estimated by applying your entered percentage rates to taxable wages.
4) Net pay (take-home pay)
Net pay is estimated as taxable wages minus payroll taxes and post-tax deductions.
Quick example
Assume an hourly employee earns $30/hour, works 80 regular hours in a biweekly cycle, and has no overtime. If they have $100 in pre-tax deductions, 12% federal tax, 5% state tax, 6.2% Social Security, and 1.45% Medicare:
- Gross pay: $2,400
- Taxable wages: $2,300
- Estimated taxes: $567.35
- Estimated net pay: $1,732.65 (before any post-tax deductions)
Tips for better payroll accuracy
Use real withholding rates when possible
Tax withholding depends on filing status, Form W-4 settings, and local rules. Replace default rates with your actual payroll withholding percentages.
Separate pre-tax vs post-tax deductions correctly
Retirement contributions and some health benefits may be pre-tax, while wage garnishments and certain insurance options may be post-tax. Proper categorization makes your net pay estimate more reliable.
Confirm overtime rules
Overtime may vary by state and role. This calculator uses a multiplier approach (default 1.5x), but your payroll policy may differ.
Frequently asked questions
Is this paycheck calculator free?
Yes. This payroll calculator is completely free to use in your browser.
Can I use it for salary employees?
Yes. Switch pay type to salary and enter annual compensation.
Does this replace payroll software?
No. It is a planning and estimation tool, not a full compliance payroll system.
Final note
A simple payroll estimate can prevent surprises and improve cash-flow planning. Use this free payroll calculator to model scenarios quickly, then confirm exact withholding and compliance details with your payroll provider or tax professional.