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Getting your first paycheck is an exciting thing. Then you look at the actual amount of the check and you think there must have been a mistake! It’s because they take out taxes and employee benefits from you pay. You should take the time to understand what they deduct from your paycheck, and why.
High school students usually first become aware that the money you make per hour, multiplied times the hours they worked each week, did not add up to the amount they actually received in their check for the pay period. Gross pay is the amount you are paid, before taxes are taken out, Net pay is the actual amount of the check, with all of the taxes and benefits deducted.
Here are the different items they deduct from an average paycheck:
Federal Tax – also known as income tax. it can range from 15 to 39.6% of the total. The more you make, the more you pay. Here’s a basic table of income tax rates for 2016:
State Tax – this is the State Income tax paid depending on which state you live in. Currently seven states have no state income tax: Alaska, Florida, Nevada, South Dakota, Texas, Washington and Wyoming.
FICA – This is the social security tax. You pay 6.2% of your income to FICA. In addition, your employer pays and additional 6.2% for you. It provides you with a guaranteed retirement benefit when you are in your 60’s.
MEDI – This is for Medicare. You pay 1.45% of your income to Medicare. Your employer also pays an additional 1.45% for you. It provides you with health care benefits when you are in your 60’s.
OTHER – Other items that can be deducted from your paycheck are for Life Insurance, Health Insurance, Retirement Plans, Flexible Spending Account Deduction (which is a health savings plan) and Employee Stock Plans. There may be other items deducted as well which are usually part of an employee benefits plan.
BTW, besides Financial Literacy Month, April is also Tax Month, with your personal tax returns due on April 15th. Did you file your return yet?
Attention millennials, now, listen up! It’s important to have a personal financial plan. Here is the top ten list for college-aged folks, that will help you with smart money practices and habits:
Sometimes stepping back and looking at where you stand can have a great impact on your approach to things. The same can be said for a Career Plan. At various stages of your life, having a Career Plan, and reviewing that plan can keep you on the right path, helping you achieve a higher salary, job security and a rewarding career – doing what you love.
Identity theft is a big problem. If someone gains control of your personal information they might be able to open accounts, file taxes and make purchases in your name.
April is National Financial Literacy Month, Talkin’ Money’s favorite month! To celebrate the importance of being financially literate, we’re going to post financial literacy tips every day.