How it works
Compare two simplified 2026 U.S. federal tax estimates:
- Each income taxed separately as single.
- Combined income taxed as married filing jointly.
Input query strings and outputs
Use an input name in this page’s URL as ?name=value, and join additional inputs with &. Portable shared links may instead use the compact ?ac= state parameter.
Input query strings
2-
?income1=Partner 1 Income ($)Number · Optional · Default: 60,000
-
?income2=Partner 2 Income ($)Number · Optional · Default: 50,000
Outputs
1-
resultResultText · Primary output
result contains the calculator’s complete rendered result area, including its visible result cards, tables, charts, and messages.
Formula
Marriage difference = tax as two single filers − tax as married filing jointly
A positive result indicates a lower simplified estimate under married filing jointly. A negative result indicates a higher simplified estimate.
Limits
The comparison uses standard deductions and ordinary-income brackets. Credits, itemized deductions, capital gains, payroll taxes, state taxes, filing eligibility, and many household-specific rules are excluded.