California Paycheck Calculator
See how California's 1%–13.3% graduated tax affects your take-home pay.
California has ten income tax brackets from 1% to 13.3%. The top rate applies to income over $1 million, and even middle-income earners face rates above most other states.
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Estimates only. Not tax or legal advice. Consult a tax professional for accuracy.
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California Paycheck FAQ
Common questions about paychecks and taxes in California
What is the California state income tax rate?
Ten brackets, from 1% to 13.3%. The top rate of 13.3% kicks in above $1,000,000 of taxable income for single filers and includes the 1% Behavioral Health Services Tax (formerly the Mental Health Services Tax). The 2026 standard deduction is $5,900 for single filers and $11,800 for joint filers and heads of household, and a personal exemption credit of $158 ($316 joint) comes off the tax.
Why is California's income tax so high?
California's progressive system puts most of the burden on high earners — the 13.3% top rate only hits income over $1 million. Workers earning under $60,000 pay less than 3% of their wages in state income tax. The revenue funds the state's large education, healthcare, and infrastructure budgets.
Does California have an SDI payroll tax?
Yes, California has a State Disability Insurance (SDI) tax of 1.3% on all wages in 2026, with no wage cap. This calculator focuses on income tax and FICA but does not include SDI. Your actual take-home may be slightly lower.
What is the Mental Health Services surcharge?
California adds a 1% tax on taxable income exceeding $1 million, now called the Behavioral Health Services Tax (formerly the Mental Health Services Tax). The $1 million threshold is the same for every filing status. This brings the top marginal rate to 13.3% — the highest state income tax rate in the nation.
Does the calculator include California's personal exemption credit?
Yes. It takes the 2026 credit off the tax: $158 for single, married-filing-separately and head-of-household filers and $316 for joint filers and qualifying widow(er)s. California phases the credit out at high incomes (in 2025, above federal AGI of $252,203 single or $504,411 joint; the 2026 thresholds aren't published yet). The calculator doesn't, so above those incomes it understates California tax by up to the credit. Dependent credits and the renter's credit aren't included.