Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about federal tax rates, deductions, credits, and how to use PlainTaxData.
Download the compiled IRS ordinary-income bracket table: federal-tax-statistics.csv (same extract as /statistics; CC0 / U.S. government source figures).
Where does PlainTaxData get its tax information?
According to the Internal Revenue Service, the figures on this site come from Revenue Procedures for inflation-adjusted tax brackets, Publication 501 for standard deductions, Publication 550 for capital gains rates, annual IRS announcements for contribution limits, and Publications 596 and 972 for EITC and CTC parameters.
What are the 2026 federal income tax brackets?
According to IRS Revenue Procedure 2025-32, tax year 2026 uses seven ordinary-income rates from 10% to 37%. The IRS moves the dollar thresholds each year for inflation. The 2026 tables cover Single, Married Filing Jointly, Married Filing Separately, and Head of Household.
What is the standard deduction for 2026?
According to IRS Revenue Procedure 2025-32, the 2026 standard deduction is $16,100 for Single and Married Filing Separately, $32,200 for Married Filing Jointly, and $24,150 for Head of Household. Filers aged 65 or older and blind filers receive additional amounts published in the same procedure.
How does the tax estimator work?
The tax estimator calculates a simplified federal income tax estimate based on your gross income, filing status, and deductions. It applies marginal bracket rates, accounts for the standard or itemized deduction, and deducts any applicable credits. It is a simplified estimate, it does not account for all deductions, phase-outs, AMT, self-employment tax, or state taxes.
What is the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC)?
The EITC is a refundable federal tax credit for workers with low to moderate income, particularly those with children. The credit amount depends on income, filing status, and number of qualifying children. According to IRS Revenue Procedure 2025-32, the 2026 maximum credit ranges from $664 (no children) to $8,231 (three or more children).
What is the difference between tax deductions and tax credits?
A tax deduction reduces your taxable income, saving you the deduction amount multiplied by your marginal rate. A tax credit reduces your tax liability dollar-for-dollar. A $1,000 deduction saves someone in the 22% bracket $220; a $1,000 credit saves exactly $1,000 regardless of your bracket.
What are the 401(k) contribution limits for 2026?
According to the IRS annual limit notices compiled here, the 2026 401(k) elective deferral limit is $24,500 for employees under age 50. The catch-up amount is +$8,000 (50+).
Is PlainTaxData the same as tax software?
No. PlainTaxData is an informational reference site, it provides tax bracket tables, parameter lookups, and simplified estimates. It is not a substitute for tax preparation software (TurboTax, H&R Block, etc.) or a qualified tax professional. For filing your actual tax return, use IRS Free File or commercial software.