How California paychecks work (2026)
In California, your take-home pay is your salary minus federal income tax, FICA (Social Security 6.2% + Medicare 1.45%) and California state income tax. This calculator uses the official 2026 rates for a single filer.
California state income tax
California has a progressive state income tax from 1% to 13.3% — among the highest in the US. A standard deduction of $5,706 (single) applies before the brackets.
Example: $80,000 in California
Federal tax is about $8,770, FICA $6,120, and California state tax about $3,452 — leaving a take-home of roughly $61,658 a year (before SDI).
What this calculator does not include
- Local/city taxes (none statewide), 401(k) and pre-tax deductions, and filing statuses other than single.
- It shows tax liability, which can differ from paycheck withholding (employers often over-withhold).
Does California tax my income?
Yes — California taxes income progressively from 1% up to 13.3%, on top of federal tax.
What's FICA?
Social Security (6.2%) and Medicare (1.45%) payroll taxes, deducted in every state including California.
More United States calculators
This calculator provides estimates for a single filer in California for 2026 based on IRS and state figures and is for general information only — it is not financial or tax advice. It excludes local taxes, 401(k) and other deductions, and shows tax liability rather than withholding. Sources: IRS (Rev. Proc. 2025-32), California Department of Revenue.