How To Increase Your Take Home Pay
You don't need a raise to take home more money. Strategic use of pre-tax accounts and payroll adjustments can meaningfully increase your net pay starting with your next paycheck.
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1. Maximize Pre-Tax 401(k) Contributions
Every dollar contributed to a traditional 401(k) reduces your taxable income by one dollar. At a 22% federal rate, contributing $10,000 saves $2,200 in federal taxes. The 2026 limit is $23,500 ($31,000 if over 50). Your take-home only decreases by the after-tax cost of the contribution.
2. Open and Max a Health Savings Account (HSA)
If you have a High-Deductible Health Plan (HDHP), an HSA offers the only triple-tax advantage: contributions are pre-tax, growth is tax-free, and withdrawals for medical expenses are tax-free. 2026 limits: $4,300 single, $8,550 family.
Tip
Contributing $23,500 to a 401(k) at a 22% tax bracket only costs you $18,330 out of pocket. The other $5,170 comes from avoided taxes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Your take-home decreases by less than your contribution because the contribution reduces your taxable income and thus your tax bill.
Calculate Your Take-Home Pay
Enter your salary, state, and deductions — get your exact net pay in under 100ms.
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