North Carolina Hourly Paycheck Calculator
Estimate your North Carolina take-home pay with our free calculator. See a clear breakdown of Federal, FICA, and NC state taxes to understand exactly where your money goes.
Your Estimated North Carolina Paycheck
See your net pay and the deductions that get you there. This is a helpful planning estimate.
Basic Information
How often you receive your paycheck
North Carolina state tax calculations applied
Your tax filing status affects your tax calculations
Paycheck Results
Deductions
Important Disclaimer
This calculator provides estimates only. Actual pay may differ due to:
- Additional taxes (local, disability, unemployment)
- Varying pay periods per year (not exactly 26 bi-weekly periods)
- Employer-specific deductions and benefits
- Mid-year tax law changes
Consult a tax professional for precise calculations.
How We Calculate Your NC Pay
We start with your gross hourly wages and subtract standardized tax withholdings to arrive at your take-home pay.
Gross Earnings
Enter your hourly rate and hours worked. We automatically handle overtime rates (1.5x) if you work extra.
Federal Tax
We estimate federal withholding based on your filing status (Single, Married, etc.) and standard requirements.
NC State Tax
We apply North Carolina’s flat income tax rate to your taxable earnings for an accurate local estimate.
FICA Taxes
Social Security (6.2%) and Medicare (1.45%) are deducted as mandated by federal law.
Why Your Net Pay Changes
Common reasons why your take-home pay might look different from check to check in North Carolina:
1. Changes in Hours
Working overtime (1.5x pay) significantly increases gross pay, but also increases the total tax withheld appropriately.
2. NC State Tax Rate
North Carolina uses a flat tax system. This means the percentage withheld is consistent, making it easier to predict than in progressive states.
3. Benefit Deductions
Pre-tax deductions like 401(k) or health insurance lower your taxable income, potentially saving you money on taxes.
North Carolina Paycheck FAQ
What taxes are deducted from my NC paycheck?
Your paycheck usually has deductions for Federal Income Tax, Social Security (6.2%), Medicare (1.45%), and North Carolina State Income Tax.
Does North Carolina have local income taxes?
No. Unlike some states, North Carolina does not generally levy specific city or county income taxes, simplifying your withholding.
Can this calculator handle overtime?
Yes! Enter your overtime hours separately. The calculator applies the standard 1.5x overtime pay rate for those hours.
What forms affect my withholding?
Your Federal W-4 form and the North Carolina state withholding form (Form NC-4) determine how much tax is taken out.
Why doesn’t the result match my paycheck exactly?
Actual paychecks depend on specific employer payroll software discrepancies, rounding methods, and exact benefit deductions. Use this as a close estimate.
Disclaimer: This tool calculates estimates based on statutory tax rates. Actual pay may vary due to employer-specific payroll methods, rounding, and benefit plan administration. This is not legal or tax advice.