How Paycheck Taxes Work in Texas
How paycheck taxes work in Texas: Because Texas has no state income tax, your paycheck deductions are primarily federal income tax, Social Security, and Medicare. Texas constitution prohibits a state income tax, making it one of the most paycheck-friendly states. Property and sales taxes are the primary revenue sources.
Texas State Tax Information
Texas has no state income tax.
Texas constitution prohibits a state income tax, making it one of the most paycheck-friendly states. Property and sales taxes are the primary revenue sources.
Federal Income Tax
Federal income tax uses progressive brackets — higher income is taxed at higher rates. The standard deduction reduces your taxable income before brackets apply. Your W-4 determines how much your employer withholds each pay period.
Social Security
Social Security tax (FICA) is 6.2% of wages up to the annual wage base ($184,500 in 2026). Both employee and employer pay this amount; this calculator shows the employee portion.
Medicare
Medicare tax is 1.45% on all wages with no cap. High earners pay an additional 0.9% on wages above $200,000 (single) or $250,000 (married filing jointly).