2026 Tax Tables

California Payroll Withholding Calculator (2026)

California uses the EDD DE 44 Method B Exact Calculation Method. Progressive brackets run from 1.1% up to 14.63% (including the 1% Mental Health Services Tax on income over $1M). The 2026 edition includes a low-income exemption gate, a standard deduction, and a per-allowance exemption credit applied against tax. Employees complete Form DE 4 to select filing status and claim allowances.

Calculate CaliforniaWithholding →

State Tax Rate

1.1% – 14.63% progressive

State W-4 Form

DE 4

Tax Year

2026

Key Facts

  • Progressive brackets 1.1% – 14.63% (top rate includes 1% Mental Health Services Tax above $1M)
  • Low-income exemption: $18,896 single / $37,791 married or HoH — below this, no withholding
  • Standard deduction: $5,706 (single/dual-income married) or $11,412 (married / HoH)
  • Per-allowance credit: $168.30/year applied against tax (Table 4)

Ready to calculate California withholding?

Free, accurate, no account required. Results update as you type.

Open Calculator →

California Withholding — Frequently Asked Questions

What is the California withholding tax rate for 2026?

California uses Method B Exact Calculation per EDD DE 44 with 10 progressive brackets. Rates start at 1.1% and reach 13.53% at the top ordinary bracket. Income above $1,000,000 adds a 1% Mental Health Services Tax for an effective top rate of 14.63%.

What does "Married dual-income" mean on Form DE 4?

Per DE 44 guidance, married employees whose spouses also work should use the dual-income option to avoid under-withholding. It applies the Single bracket schedule to the employee’s wages, producing more accurate combined-household withholding.

Does this calculator include California SDI?

No. State Disability Insurance (SDI) is an employee payroll deduction, not state income tax, and is calculated separately. As of 2024, SDI is 1.2% of wages with no wage cap.

What is the California supplemental wage rate for 2026?

California uses a 6.6% flat rate for supplemental wages (bonuses, commissions) when calculated separately. Stock options and bonus payouts tied to equity are withheld at 10.23% per DE 44.