California Payroll Tax Calculator 2026
Calculate your exact California take-home pay. State income tax: 1%–13.3%. Includes federal taxes and FICA + 1.10% SDI/PFML.
| Deduction | Per Paycheck | Annual |
|---|---|---|
| Gross Pay | — | — |
| Federal Income Tax | — | — |
| California State Tax | — | — |
| Social Security (6.2%) | — | — |
| Medicare (1.45%) | — | — |
| Total Deductions | — | — |
| Net Take-Home | — | — |
California Income Tax Rates 2026
California uses a graduated (progressive) income tax with rates from 1%–13.3%. Higher income brackets are taxed at higher marginal rates. Your effective rate will be lower than the top rate since only income above each threshold is taxed at that rate.
All Payroll Deductions in California
- Federal income tax: 10%–37% (2026 brackets, based on taxable income after $15,000 standard deduction for single filers)
- California state income tax: 1%–13.3%
- Social Security: 6.2% on wages up to $176,100
- Medicare: 1.45% on all wages (+ 0.9% on wages over $200,000)
- SDI / PFML: 1.10% employee contribution
California vs Federal Tax: What's Different
Your California state tax is calculated on state taxable income (gross minus California's standard deduction of $5,202). Federal tax uses a $15,000 standard deduction (single, 2026). The rates and brackets are independent — state tax is not a deduction from federal tax.
About This Calculator
This calculator uses 2026 federal and California state tax rates. Results are estimates — actual withholding may differ based on W-4 elections, itemized deductions, tax credits, and local/county taxes not included here. Always verify with your payroll provider or a tax professional.