Your Pay Details
Your Take-Home Pay
| Gross Pay | $0 |
| Federal Income Tax | –$0 |
| Social Security (6.2%) | –$0 |
| Medicare (1.45%) | –$0 |
| Wisconsin State Tax | –$0 |
| Take-Home Pay | $0 |
How Your Wisconsin Paycheck Works
Wisconsin has a graduated income tax with 4 brackets ranging from 3.5% to 7.65%. Wisconsin provides a standard deduction of $12,110 for single filers, though it phases out at higher incomes.
Federal Income Tax
Calculated using 2025 federal brackets from 10% to 37%, applied to taxable income after the standard deduction.
Social Security
6.2% of gross pay up to $176,100. Funds the Social Security retirement and disability program.
Medicare
1.45% of all gross pay. High earners over $200K pay an additional 0.9% surtax.
Wisconsin State Tax
Wisconsin uses 4 graduated brackets from 3.5% to 7.65%. The top 7.65% rate applies to income above $315,310 for single filers.
2025 Wisconsin State Tax Brackets
Here are the Wisconsin income tax brackets for single filers in 2025, applied after the state standard deduction or personal exemption.
| Rate | Single — Taxable Income |
|---|---|
| 3.50% | $0 – $14,320 |
| 4.40% | $14,320 – $28,640 |
| 5.30% | $28,640 – $315,310 |
| 7.65% | $315,310 – No limit |
Major Cities in Wisconsin
Whether you live in Milwaukee, Madison, or anywhere else in Wisconsin, state tax rates apply uniformly — your city does not change your paycheck calculation. Local taxes and cost of living vary by city, as shown below.
* Population from U.S. Census estimates. Home prices and rent are 2023–2024 estimates. Local income tax applies to residents unless noted.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Wisconsin's state income tax rate?
Wisconsin has 4 graduated brackets: 3.5%, 4.4%, 5.3%, and 7.65%. The top rate of 7.65% applies to income above $315,310 for single filers. Most middle-income workers pay between 4.4% and 5.3% on the top portion of their earnings.
How much of my paycheck goes to taxes in Wisconsin?
A single filer earning $55,000/year in Wisconsin pays roughly 4–5% in effective state income tax (after standard deduction) plus federal taxes and FICA. Total deductions typically run 25–29% of gross pay.
What is FICA and how much is it?
FICA covers Social Security (6.2% up to $176,100) and Medicare (1.45% with no cap). Together that is 7.65% of gross pay, paid by every US worker regardless of state.
How do pre-tax deductions like a 401(k) reduce my taxes?
Pre-tax deductions reduce both your federal and state taxable income. A $5,000 annual 401(k) contribution can save $600–$1,100 in federal taxes plus additional state tax savings depending on your bracket.
How accurate is this calculator?
This calculator uses 2025 federal and state tax brackets. Results are estimates — your actual paycheck may vary based on W-4 elections, employer deductions, and local taxes not included here.