Effective vs Marginal Tax Rate Calculator (2026)
Compare your marginal tax bracket with your true effective rate — the two numbers most people mix up.
Effective tax rate 17.83%
Marginal tax rate 24%
Total federal tax $21,398.00
How it's calculated
Your marginal rate is the bracket your next dollar is taxed at. Your effective rate is total tax divided by total income, which is always lower because of the lower brackets underneath.
Assumptions
- Uses 2026 federal ordinary-income brackets on taxable income. — IRS Rev. Proc. 2025-32
Last updated: 2026-08-07 · Tax year 2026
These assumptions follow our general methodology.
Frequently asked questions
Which rate matters for a raise?
Your marginal rate — that is what applies to the additional income. Your effective rate describes your overall burden.