Tax bracket calculator
Someone earning $95,000 (single filer) is "in the 22% bracket" but pays an effective federal rate of about 14.5%. The 22% rate only applies to dollars between $47,150 and $95,000. The first $11,600 is taxed at 10%, the next $35,550 at 12%. You never lose money by earning more.
Good to know
Tax brackets apply to taxable income, not gross. If you earn $80,000 and take the $14,600 standard deduction (single filer, 2024), your taxable income is $65,400. That's what the brackets apply to. High earners with large deductions can significantly reduce their taxable income.
The "raise pushes me into a higher bracket" fear is misguided. Only income above the bracket threshold is taxed at the higher rate. If the 22% bracket starts at $47,150 and you earn $47,000, then get a $10,000 raise, only $9,850 of that raise is taxed at 22%. You always keep more money by earning more.
Payroll taxes are flat and regressive. Social Security tax (6.2%) applies to the first $168,600 of income (2024), then stops. Medicare (1.45%) has no cap. Someone earning $160,000 pays the same Social Security as someone earning $500,000.
Disclaimers & sources
2024 federal brackets. This is an estimate, not tax advice. Consult a tax professional for your specific situation.