How the 2026 US Income Tax System Works
The United States uses a progressive federal income tax structure with seven marginal tax rates: 10%, 12%, 22%, 24%, 32%, 35%, and 37%. Progressive taxation means that your income is divided into segments, with each segment taxed only at its corresponding bracket rate. Stepping into a higher tax bracket does not cause your entire income to be taxed at the higher rate.
2026 Federal Tax Brackets (Single Filers)
- 10%: to ,925
- 12%: ,925 to ,475
- 22%: ,475 to ,350
- 24%: ,350 to ,300
- 32%: ,300 to ,525
- 35%: ,525 to ,350
- 37%: Over ,350
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the 2026 standard deduction?
For the 2026 tax year, the projected IRS standard deduction is ,000 for single filers, ,000 for married couples filing jointly, and ,500 for heads of household.
How does FICA tax differ from federal income tax?
FICA taxes fund Social Security (6.2% up to ,100 wage cap) and Medicare (1.45% on all wages, plus 0.9% additional Medicare for high earners). Unlike income tax, FICA does not benefit from standard deductions.