Paycheck Guide · Minimum Wage · 2026
Federal Minimum Wage Take-Home Pay: How Much Do You Actually Earn? (2026)
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The federal minimum wage is $7.25 per hour. The US Department of Labor minimum-wage history is the primary source for that federal floor. Many states and cities require higher minimum wages.
Federal Minimum Wage After Taxes in Texas
A full-time schedule of 2,080 hours per year at $7.25 per hour produces $15,080 in gross annual wages. The table compares engine-derived Texas estimates for a single filer paid biweekly with a standard W-4 and no pre-tax deductions.
| Hourly rate | Annual gross | Annual take-home | Biweekly take-home |
|---|---|---|---|
| $7.25/hr federal minimum wage | $15,080 | $13,926 | $536 |
| $15/hr | $31,200 | $27,249 | $1,048 |
| $20/hr | $41,600 | $35,606 | $1,369 |
Why Your Actual Paycheck May Differ
Your state, local taxes, schedule, W-4 elections, and workplace deductions can change take-home pay. Texas is used here as a simple comparison because it does not levy wage-based state personal income-tax withholding.
Start with the federal minimum-wage Texas example, then change the inputs for your situation.
Calculate minimum-wage take-home →Frequently Asked Questions
What is federal minimum wage after taxes?
For a single filer in Texas working 2,080 hours per year at the federal minimum wage, the calculator estimates $13,926 in annual take-home pay, or $536 per biweekly paycheck.
How much is $15/hr after taxes?
For a single filer in Texas working 2,080 hours per year at $15 per hour, the calculator estimates $27,249 in annual take-home pay, or $1,048 per biweekly paycheck.
Which state has the highest minimum wage?
Many states set their own minimum wages above the $7.25 federal floor. Washington, California, and New York have among the highest. Use our calculator for your state.
Figures and methods are based on official-source data encoded in the calculator. Not tax advice. Review the methodology and consult a qualified professional for your situation.