Wisconsin has a progressive income tax system with rates ranging from 3.54% to 7.65%, making it moderately taxed among Midwestern states. Our free Wisconsin paycheck calculator shows your exact take-home pay after federal taxes, Wisconsin state tax, and FICA deductions. Whether you're considering a move to America's Dairyland, comparing job opportunities in Milwaukee or Madison, or budgeting your current Wisconsin salary, get accurate results based on 2025 tax rates.
Wisconsin Tax System Overview
Wisconsin uses a progressive income tax system with four tax brackets:
2025 Wisconsin Tax Brackets (Single Filer)
| Income Range | Tax Rate | Tax Amount |
|---|---|---|
| $0 - $13,810 | 3.54% | Up to $489 |
| $13,811 - $27,630 | 4.65% | Up to $1,132 |
| $27,631 - $304,170 | 6.27% | Up to $18,465 |
| $304,171+ | 7.65% | $18,465+ |
Sample Wisconsin Paycheck Calculations
Here's how much you'll take home at different salary levels in Wisconsin:
$50,000 Annual Salary
- Gross Pay: $50,000
- Federal Tax: $4,617
- WI State Tax: $2,395
- FICA Taxes: $3,825
- Take-Home Pay: $39,163 (78.3%)
- Monthly Net: $3,264
- Bi-weekly Net: $1,506
$75,000 Annual Salary
- Gross Pay: $75,000
- Federal Tax: $8,739
- WI State Tax: $4,365
- FICA Taxes: $5,738
- Take-Home Pay: $56,158 (74.9%)
- Monthly Net: $4,680
- Bi-weekly Net: $2,160
$100,000 Annual Salary
- Gross Pay: $100,000
- Federal Tax: $14,260
- WI State Tax: $5,930
- FICA Taxes: $7,650
- Take-Home Pay: $72,160 (72.2%)
- Monthly Net: $6,013
- Bi-weekly Net: $2,775
Wisconsin vs. Neighboring States
Compare Wisconsin's tax burden with surrounding states:
Wisconsin ($75k salary)
- Take-home: $56,158
- Effective rate: 25.1%
- State tax: $4,365
- Moderate tax burden
Iowa ($75k salary)
- Take-home: $57,825
- Effective rate: 22.9%
- State tax: $2,698
- IA Saves: $1,667/year
Understanding Wisconsin Paycheck Deductions
Wisconsin State Income Tax
Wisconsin's progressive tax system includes:
- Progressive Rates: 3.54% to 7.65% depending on income
- Standard Deduction: $12,760 (single), $23,620 (married filing jointly)
- Personal Exemption: $700 per person
- Dependent Exemption: $700 per dependent
Wisconsin Retirement Tax Considerations
Wisconsin taxes most retirement income:
- Social Security: Partially taxed based on income level
- 401(k) & IRA: Withdrawals are fully taxable
- Pensions: Most pension income is taxable
- Military Retirement: Some exemptions for military retirement pay
Wisconsin Economic Benefits
Beyond state taxes, Wisconsin offers several advantages:
- Cost of Living: Lower than national average in most areas
- Quality of Life: Strong education system and healthcare
- No Social Security Tax: State doesn't fully tax Social Security
- Manufacturing Hub: Strong industrial and agricultural economy
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Wisconsin tax Social Security benefits?
Wisconsin follows federal rules for taxing Social Security, but only taxes the portion that's federally taxable. This makes it more favorable than states that tax all Social Security income.
Are there local income taxes in Wisconsin?
No, Wisconsin does not allow local governments to impose income taxes. However, local property taxes and sales taxes vary by municipality.
Is Wisconsin tax-friendly for retirees?
Wisconsin is moderately retirement-friendly. While it taxes most retirement income, there are some exemptions and the overall tax burden is reasonable compared to neighboring states.
Tax Planning Tips for Wisconsin Residents
Understand Progressive Brackets
Wisconsin's progressive system means higher earners pay higher rates. Plan retirement contributions to stay in lower brackets when possible.
Maximize Deductions
Take advantage of Wisconsin's standard deduction and exemptions to reduce your taxable income.
Consider Timing of Income
With progressive rates, timing large income events (like stock sales) across multiple years can reduce overall tax burden.
Ready to Calculate Your Wisconsin Take-Home Pay?
Use our calculator above to see exactly how much you'll keep from your paycheck in Wisconsin.