Gross Pay vs Net Pay — What Take-Home Estimates Miss

Gross is headline compensation. Net is after taxes and deductions — but not identical to “cash in pocket” if you have 401(k), HSA, garnishments, or local taxes.

Why two people with the same gross differ

• Filing status and W-4 adjustments.
• Pre-tax benefits and catch-up contributions.
• State and municipal income taxes.

Try a directional federal view with the Salary Tax Calculator, then add state and benefits manually for realism.