TaxWrenIncome tax
Federal brackets, deductions, credits and refunds.
Explainer · Income tax
Are Social Security benefits taxable? How much is taxed and when
Up to 85% of Social Security benefits can be taxed once half your benefits plus other income pass $25,000 ($32,000 joint). How it works, with examples.
0-85%Of Social Security benefits taxed
October 22, 2026
Explainer · Income tax
SALT deduction cap for 2026: $40,400, and how it shrinks above $505,000
For 2026 you can deduct up to $40,400 of state and local taxes if you itemize. Above $505,000 of MAGI the cap drops by 30% of the excess, to $10,000.
$40,400SALT deduction cap in 2026
October 22, 2026
Explainer · Income tax
Child tax credit 2026: amount, refundable part and income limits
The 2026 child tax credit is up to $2,200 per child under 17, with up to $1,700 refundable. It phases out above $200,000 ($400,000 joint). Worked examples.
$2,200Child tax credit per child in 2026
October 11, 2026
Explainer · Income tax
Marginal vs effective tax rate: what you really pay in 2026
Your marginal rate is the bracket your last dollar falls in; your effective rate is total tax divided by income. 2026 examples: $75,000 pays 10.2%, not 22%.
22% vs 10.2%Marginal vs effective rate on $75,000
October 11, 2026
Calculators for income tax
- Income tax calculatorFederal and state income tax owed for 2026.
- Federal tax brackets by yearCurrent and previous federal tax brackets, standard deduction and key figures, with year-over-year changes.
- Do I need to file taxes?Whether you must file a federal tax return, from the IRS income thresholds by filing status and age, the rules for dependents, self-employment and other situations, and when to file anyway to get a refund.