Paycheck Guides: Taxes, Pay Stubs and Withholding Explained

How to read a pay stubEvery line and abbreviation on a pay stub, with a worked 2026 example.

FICA tax in 2026Social Security and Medicare rates, the 2026 wage base and maximum, and refunds.

States with no income taxThe nine no-wage-tax states, their exceptions, and what still comes out of your pay.

How much tax is taken out of my paycheck?Every tax layer on a paycheck, with typical rates and a worked $60,000 example.

Why is my paycheck lower than expected?The usual reasons a paycheck comes in low, and how to spot each on your stub.

How to fill out a W-4 in 2026Each step of the 2026 Form W-4, including the new Deductions Worksheet lines.

Gross vs net payThe difference between gross and net pay, the formula, and a monthly example.

Living in one state and working in anotherReciprocity, credits for other-state tax, remote work and commuter examples.

Paycheck guides