Tax Bracket Calculator — 2025 Federal Income Tax

Frequently Asked Questions

How do tax brackets actually work?

Tax brackets are marginal — only the income within each bracket is taxed at that bracket's rate. If you're in the 22% bracket, you don't pay 22% on all your income. You pay 10% on the first $11,925, 12% on the next slice, and 22% only on income above $48,475 (2025, single filer). Your effective rate is always lower than your marginal rate.

What is the difference between effective and marginal tax rate?

Your marginal rate is the rate that applies to your last dollar of income — the bracket you're in. Your effective rate is your total tax divided by your gross income — what you actually pay overall. The effective rate is always lower because the lower brackets apply to the first portions of your income regardless of how high your total income is.

Does this include state income tax?

No — this calculator covers federal income tax only. State income tax rates, brackets, and deductions vary widely by state (and some states have no income tax at all). Add your state's rate separately, or use the Net Pay Calculator which includes a state tax field.

What is the standard deduction for 2025?

For 2025, the standard deduction is $15,000 for single filers, $30,000 for married filing jointly, $22,500 for head of household, and $15,000 for married filing separately. Most filers take the standard deduction rather than itemizing — itemizing only helps if your deductible expenses exceed the standard amount.

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