# Semimonthly paycheck calculator (2026)

Semimonthly pay is two checks a month — 24 a year — usually the 1st and the 15th or the 15th and last business day. It is not biweekly (every two weeks, 26 checks). This page annualizes semimonthly gross × 24.

On the same $80,000 salary a semimonthly check is about $3,333 gross; a biweekly check is about $3,077. Annual tax should land close if hours stay flat. Three-check months do not happen on a true semimonthly calendar.

HR systems sometimes label both calendars “twice a month.” If you get 26 checks, use Biweekly. If you get 24, stay here.

The sample is $80,000 California, single. Change state or filing status in the widget. Reviewed August 24, 2026.

## Sample estimates

### $80k as semimonthly, CA single

- Gross: $80,000.00
- Federal income tax: $8,770.00
- Social Security: $4,960.00
- Medicare: $1,160.00
- State income tax: $3,210.42
- Net / take-home: $60,859.58 (effective tax 23.9%)
- Per paycheck net: $2,535.82 (24 periods)

Label: engine estimates, not pay stubs.

## FAQ

### Is semimonthly the same as biweekly?

No. Semimonthly is 24 periods. Biweekly is 26.

### What should I type?

The gross of one semimonthly check, or switch to Annual and type the salary.

### Does this include local tax?

Only optional NYC, CA SDI, and WA Cares. Other locals are omitted.

## Related

- [Biweekly paycheck calculator](https://takehomecash.com/biweekly-paycheck-calculator/index.md)
- [Monthly paycheck calculator](https://takehomecash.com/monthly-paycheck-calculator/index.md)
- [Compare job offers](https://takehomecash.com/compare-job-offers/index.md)