Tax Bracket Calculator
How U.S. Federal Tax Brackets Work
The United States uses a progressive tax system with marginal tax rates. This means you pay higher rates only on the portion of income that falls within each bracket — not your entire income. Being in the 22% bracket does not mean you pay 22% on every dollar you earn.
For example, if you're single with $50,000 taxable income in 2024:
- First $11,600 taxed at 10% = $1,160
- Amount from $11,601 to $47,150 taxed at 12% = $4,266
- Amount from $47,151 to $50,000 taxed at 22% = $627
- Total tax = $6,053 (effective rate of ~12%)
The 2024 standard deduction is $14,600 for single filers and $29,200 for married couples filing jointly. This amount is subtracted from your gross income before taxes are calculated.
2024 Federal Tax Brackets (Single Filers)
| Tax Rate | Income Range |
|---|---|
| 10% | $0 – $11,600 |
| 12% | $11,601 – $47,150 |
| 22% | $47,151 – $100,525 |
| 24% | $100,526 – $191,950 |
| 32% | $191,951 – $243,725 |
| 35% | $243,726 – $609,350 |
| 37% | $609,351+ |
Marginal vs. Effective Tax Rate
Marginal tax rate: The highest tax bracket your income reaches. This determines the tax on your last dollar earned and is important for decisions about deductions and additional income.
Effective tax rate: Your total tax divided by your total income. This is the actual percentage of your income paid in taxes. Most people's effective rate is significantly lower than their marginal rate due to the progressive system.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do U.S. tax brackets work?
The U.S. uses progressive tax rates. You pay 10% on income up to the first bracket, 12% on income in the second bracket, and so on. Your marginal rate is your highest bracket; your effective rate is your average rate.
What is the difference between marginal and effective tax rate?
Marginal rate is the rate on your last dollar earned (your highest bracket). Effective rate is total tax divided by total income — typically much lower than your marginal rate.
What is the standard deduction?
The standard deduction reduces your taxable income. For 2024, it is $14,600 for single filers and $29,200 for married couples filing jointly.