Gross-Up Calculator
Work backwards from a desired take-home amount to the gross pay you must run, so the net lands exactly on target after withholding.
How it works
Gross = net ÷ (1 − rate%) · Withheld = gross − net
Grossing up reverses the usual paycheck math: instead of taking a percentage out of gross, you solve for the gross that leaves the promised net after that percentage is removed. Because the tax comes out of the larger gross figure, you cannot simply add the rate back — a 30% withholding requires dividing by 0.70, not multiplying by 1.30. Employers use this for relocation payments, bonuses and any "net of tax" promise.
Worked example
To deliver a $1,000 net at a 30% combined withholding rate, divide 1,000 by (1 − 0.30) = 0.70, giving $1,428.57 of gross. Withholding of $428.57 comes out, leaving exactly $1,000.
Frequently asked questions
Why can’t I just add the tax rate back to the net?
Because withholding is taken from the gross, not the net. Adding 30% to a $1,000 net gives $1,300, but 30% of $1,300 is $390, leaving only $910. Dividing by (1 − 0.30) is the only way to land on the exact net.
What withholding rate should I use?
Add up the marginal income-tax rate (federal, and state/local if any) plus the employee FICA rate of 7.65%. For a "no surprises" net bonus, employers often use the 22% federal supplemental rate plus FICA and state.
Does grossing up cost the employer more?
Yes — the employer absorbs the tax so the employee nets the full promised amount. The extra gross is a real cost, which is why gross-ups are usually reserved for relocation, sign-on and executive payments.
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Educational payroll estimate, not tax, payroll or legal advice. Rules and rates vary by jurisdiction and employer — confirm with your payroll department.