Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the most common questions about overtime, double‑time, and net‑pay estimates.
Calculator basics
How accurate is this calculator?
It’s designed for quick planning. We use simple percentage inputs (Fed % and State %) so you can match your latest paystub. Real payroll uses detailed tax tables, pre‑tax deductions, and local rules. Use your paystub to fine‑tune the sliders.
What do Fed % and State % actually do?
They’re rough withholding estimates. For example, if your last check showed ~14% federal withholding and ~5% state, start there. If your net comes out a little high or low, nudge the sliders until it matches your reality.
When does overtime (1.5×) kick in?
Many employers pay time‑and‑a‑half after 40 hours in a workweek. Some industries and policies differ (e.g., daily thresholds or special rules in certain states). Always verify your employer handbook or agreement.
When is double‑time (2.0×) used?
Some employers/union contracts pay 2.0× for holidays, very long shifts, or seventh consecutive days. If applicable, enter those hours in the DT box to see the impact on your gross.
Which pay frequency should I pick?
Pick the one your employer uses (weekly, biweekly, twice‑monthly, monthly). Per‑check withholding shifts with pay frequency, but annual totals even out.
Advanced topics
How do pre‑tax deductions (401k/HSA/medical) affect results?
Pre‑tax deductions lower the wages subject to tax. If the calculator doesn’t have dedicated fields for them, reduce your Fed % and State % a bit to mimic the effect.
What about local/city taxes?
Local taxes vary by city/county and aren’t modeled precisely. Use the State % slider to approximate local effects. Check your city’s guidance if you need exact tables.
Do bonuses get taxed differently?
Bonuses are often withheld using “supplemental” methods that can look high on the paycheck. That doesn’t mean your yearly tax is higher—it’s just per‑check withholding.
Why doesn’t my net match exactly?
Payroll systems include allowances, filing status, credits, and benefit deductions. Treat this as a fast estimate and calibrate it to your paystub.
Troubleshooting
The numbers look off—what should I adjust first?
- Match your last paystub’s hours and rate.
- Set Fed % to last paystub’s federal withholding divided by gross.
- Set State % to last paystub’s state withholding divided by gross.
- Confirm the correct pay frequency.
Do you store my inputs?
We store your selected state in your browser (localStorage) so navigation feels snappy. Calculator inputs stay in your browser and are not sent to a server.
- Is this exact take‑home pay?
- This tool gives a rough estimate. Your actual withholding depends on your W‑4/W‑2 elections, local taxes, benefits, and employer payroll rules.
- How do you calculate overtime?
- We multiply your base rate (plus any shift differential) by 1.5× or 2.0× for the OT hours you enter. The CA Daily OT Assistant can derive OT hours from 7 days of inputs (simplified rules).
- Do you store my data?
- No. Inputs are processed in your browser. We only use anonymized analytics to improve the site.