Final answer:
The amount of state tax withheld from a paycheck can be calculated using the gross income and applicable state tax rate, but the specific rate varies by state.
Employers withhold federal, state, and payroll taxes from each paycheck. Without the state's specific tax rate, the precise amount of state tax withheld cannot be calculated.
Step-by-step explanation:
Calculating State Tax Withheld
To determine the amount of state tax withheld from a paycheck, one must consider the various deductions that come from gross income.
Assuming a gross annual income, standard deductions and exemptions will be applied to determine the taxable income, which is then subjected to federal and state tax rates.
For example, with a gross annual income of $20,000, and assuming the average federal tax rate is 13.25 percent, we can calculate the taxes.
In addition to the federal tax, state tax would also have to be considered. If we assume a further 15% for both federal and state taxes based on the gross income, the state tax can be calculated.
Employers are mandated to withhold taxes from each worker's paycheck. This withholding includes federal income tax, payroll taxes (Social Security and Medicare), as well as state income taxes. The exact percentage for state tax will vary depending on the state's tax laws.
Therefore, if $20,000 is the gross income and 15% is assumed for federal and state taxes together, the calculation for just the state portion necessitates knowledge of the specific state tax rate.
Without this, an exact figure cannot be determined. It's also important to note that some states have no state income tax, while others may have rates varying widely.