Tax Refund Estimator
Project your 2025 federal tax refund or balance due. Enter wages, self-employment income, deductions, and credits to see how much to expect on tax day.
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2025 Federal Tax Refund Estimate
Total Tax Liability
$6,289
Includes $6,223 income tax + $565 self-employment tax
Payments & Credits
$9,500
Withholding $9,000 + estimated payments + refundable credits
Estimated Refund
$3,211
Expect this refund when you file. Consider adjusting W-4 to bring more home each paycheck.
Withholding Accuracy
51.1%
Positive = over-withholding. Aim for ±5% to avoid surprises.
Tax Owed vs Payments
Income → Taxable Income Walkthrough
Enter Your Information
Income & Withholding
Deductions & Credits
Household Factors
How to use this estimator
- Compare refund scenarios by adjusting withholding and deductions.
- Add self-employment income to see quarterly payment needs.
- Use refundable credits for Earned Income Credit or American Opportunity Credit.
Next Steps
Expecting a refund?
- Update your W-4 to keep more each paycheck.
- Automate part of the refund toward high-interest debt or savings goals.
- Track charitable donations or HSA contributions to grow deductions.
Owing taxes?
- Increase withholding or set up quarterly estimated payments.
- Max pre-tax savings (401(k), HSA, FSA) before year-end.
- Build a buffer—IRS penalties apply if you owe $1,000+ without safe harbor.
Side hustle income?
- Save 25-30% of net profit for taxes automatically.
- Track business expenses to reduce self-employment tax.
- Consider S-Corp election if self-employment income exceeds ~$80k.
Key Financial Terms
Understand the essential concepts behind this calculator
AGI (Adjusted Gross Income)
Your total gross income minus specific deductions, used to determine tax liability and eligibility for credits.
Child Tax Credit
Federal tax credit of up to $2,000 per qualifying child under 17, reducing your tax bill dollar-for-dollar.
Effective Tax Rate
Your actual tax rate—total taxes paid divided by total income. Lower than marginal rate because of brackets and deductions.
FBAR (Foreign Bank Account Report)
FinCEN Form 114 requiring U.S. persons to report foreign financial accounts exceeding $10,000 aggregate value.
📚 Tax Rate Sources
Ordinary income is taxed at graduated rates from 10% to 37% based on filing status and income level.
→ Source: IRS - Federal Income Tax Rates and Brackets
• Short-term capital gains (assets held ≤1 year): Taxed at ordinary income rates (10-37%)
• Long-term capital gains (assets held >1 year): 0%, 15%, or 20% based on income
→ Source: IRS Topic 409 - Capital Gains and Losses
State income tax rates vary from 0% (no state income tax) to 13.3% (California top rate).
→ Source: Tax Foundation - State Income Tax Rates
Qualified dividends are taxed at the same preferential rates as long-term capital gains (0%, 15%, or 20%).
→ Source: IRS Topic 404 - Dividends
Note: Tax laws change frequently. These rates are current as of 2025. Always consult a tax professional for personalized advice.
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⚠️ Important Disclaimer
This Tax Refund Estimator provides estimates for educational and informational purposes only. Actual results may vary significantly based on individual circumstances, market conditions, regulatory changes, and other factors beyond the scope of this calculator.
The calculations and projections provided are based on assumptions and historical data that may not reflect future performance.Past performance does not guarantee future results.
This tool is not financial advice, tax advice, legal advice, or investment advice. For personalized guidance tailored to your specific situation, please consult with qualified professionals including:
- Certified Financial Planner (CFP)
- Certified Public Accountant (CPA) for tax matters
- Licensed attorney for legal matters
- Registered Investment Advisor (RIA) for investment decisions
Data Accuracy: All data sources, statistics, and rates were verified as accurate as of October 2025. Tax rates, market conditions, and other financial data change over time. Always verify current rates and consult official sources.
No Warranties: While we strive for accuracy, we make no warranties or guarantees regarding the accuracy, completeness, or reliability of any information provided. Use this tool at your own risk.