The calculator below is provided for illustration purposes only. It uses simplified, estimated figures based on the 2026 IRS and California EDD withholding formulas and is not a substitute for a review of your actual pay stub, plan documents, or advice from a qualified tax professional.
401(k) Paycheck Calculator
Enter your gross wage, W-4 details, and 401(k) deferral to see how a contribution change affects your actual take-home pay.
Paycheck & Contribution
Doesn't reduce your paycheck — shown for reference only.
Health, dental, or vision premiums, HSA, etc. Reduces federal, state, and FICA wages.
Federal (Form W-4)
From Form W-4 Step 3 — e.g. $2,000 per qualifying child under 17, $500 per other dependent.
From Form W-4 Step 4(c), if any.
State
Check your state's withholding tables or a recent pay stub for your actual rate.
Per-Paycheck Comparison
| Current | New | |
|---|---|---|
| Gross Pay | — | — |
| 401(k) Contribution | — | — |
| Est. Federal Income Tax | — | — |
| Est. State Income Tax | — | — |
| Est. FICA (SS + Medicare) | — | — |
| Take-Home Pay | — | — |
| Employer Match (est., not part of pay) | — | — |
—
Actual drop in take-home pay per paycheck
Estimate only, based on 2026 IRS Publication 15-T (federal) and California EDD Method B (state) withholding formulas. FICA and Other Pre-Tax Deductions apply the same to both columns except where noted; 401(k) deferrals reduce federal/state taxable wages but not FICA wages.