Marginal Tax Rate Calculator (2026)

Compare your marginal vs. effective federal tax rate using the 2026 IRS brackets.

How it works

Marginal is the rate on your next dollar. Effective is total tax ÷ taxable income — always lower because lower brackets fill first.

Frequently asked questions

Are these amounts an exact tax bill?

No. They use verified 2026 IRS/SSA figures but ignore credits, phase-outs and AMT. Use tax software or a CPA to file.

Marginal vs effective rate?

Marginal is the rate on your next dollar. Effective is total tax ÷ taxable income — always lower because earlier brackets fill first.

Standard or itemized?

Take whichever is larger. 2026 standard deduction: Single $16,100 · MFJ $32,200 · HoH $24,150 · MFS $16,100.

How is state tax handled?

Eight states impose no income tax. The rest are approximated at their top rate — see your state's brackets for a precise figure.

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