Salary Comparison – Calculate Your Pay Raise

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does so little of a pay rise reach my pocket?

+

Germany has a progressive income tax: the more you earn, the higher the marginal tax rate. Social insurance contributions also rise with income up to the contribution ceiling. In certain income brackets, only around 50–65% of a raise translates into additional net pay.

When does a tax class change make sense before a pay rise?

+

Tax class 3 is interesting for married couples where one partner earns significantly more. A pay rise for the main earner in class 3 is taxed more favourably than in class 1 or 4. Use our Tax Class Optimizer to compare all combinations.

How does the federal state affect a pay rise?

+

The federal state affects the church tax rate (8% in Bavaria and Baden-Württemberg, 9% elsewhere) and the social insurance ceilings (East/West). With otherwise equal parameters, the net difference between states can be several euros per month.

How do I calculate the effective tax rate?

+

The effective tax rate is the ratio of all taxes (income tax + solidarity surcharge + church tax if applicable) to gross salary. The calculator shows you the total deduction rate including social insurance for both salary levels.

More Calculators