Washington Paycheck Calculator

Estimate your 2024 Washington net pay. Enjoy no state income tax in Washington state!

No State Income Tax
$

Minimum wage: $16.28/hour

Standard: 80 hours per period

Per Period

Gross Pay$1,600
Federal Tax-$192
FICA-$122.4
Net Pay$1,285.6

Annual

Gross Pay$38,400
Federal Tax-$4,608
FICA-$2,937.6
Net Pay$30,854.4

Tax Distribution

Take Home
80%
Federal
FICA
Take Home

Complete Guide to Washington Paycheck Calculator (2024)

Washington Paycheck Overview

Washington state offers a unique tax environment as one of the few states with no state income tax. With a median household income of $82,400 (2023 statistics), Washington ranks among the highest-income states. Understanding paycheck calculations is essential for financial planning in the Evergreen State.

Key Statistics for 2024

  • State Minimum Wage: $16.28 per hour
  • Seattle Minimum Wage: $19.97 per hour
  • Average Hourly Wage: $35.50
  • Unemployment Rate: 3.7%

Tax System Explained

Federal Income Tax

While Washington has no state income tax, federal tax rates still apply, ranging from 10% to 37% in 2024. Your federal tax bracket depends on your taxable income and filing status.

No State Income Tax

Washington is one of nine states that does not collect personal income tax. This means more take-home pay compared to most other states, though other taxes may be higher to compensate.

FICA Taxes

FICA taxes remain consistent nationwide: 6.2% for Social Security and 1.45% for Medicare. High earners (over $200,000) pay an additional 0.9% Medicare surtax.

Paycheck Deductions

Pre-tax Deductions

  • 401(k) and 403(b) Contributions
  • Health Insurance Premiums
  • HSA/FSA Contributions
  • Commuter Benefits

Mandatory Deductions

  • Federal Income Tax
  • FICA Taxes
  • Paid Family Leave Premium
  • Long-term Care Premium

Washington Minimum Wage Laws

Washington boasts one of the highest minimum wages in the nation, with regular adjustments for inflation. Several cities have established their own higher minimum wage rates.

2024 Minimum Wage Rates

  • State Rate: $16.28 per hour
  • Seattle: $19.97 per hour
  • SeaTac: $19.71 per hour
  • Tukwila: $19.50 per hour

Sales Tax Impact

With no state income tax, Washington relies heavily on sales tax revenue. Understanding the sales tax structure helps in budgeting your take-home pay effectively.

LocationCombined RateDetails
State Base Rate6.5%Statewide
Seattle10.1%Includes local taxes
Tacoma10.3%Highest in state

Paycheck Optimization Tips

Tax Optimization Strategies

  • Maximize pre-tax deductions
  • Consider tax-advantaged accounts
  • Optimize W-4 withholdings
  • Plan for sales tax impact

Long-term Planning

  • Build emergency savings
  • Consider property tax impact
  • Plan for retirement savings
  • Review insurance needs

Frequently Asked Questions

Why doesn't Washington have state income tax?

Washington's constitution prohibits income tax. Instead, the state generates revenue through sales tax, property tax, and business taxes, allowing residents to keep more of their earned income.

How is overtime calculated in Washington?

Overtime pay is calculated at 1.5 times regular hourly rate for hours worked beyond 40 in a workweek. Some industries and localities may have different rules or higher rates.

What is Washington's Paid Family Leave program?

Washington offers up to 12 weeks of paid family and medical leave, funded through small premium deductions from both employers and employees (about 0.6% of wages total).