How to use the salary calculator
Enter your pay and choose the period it covers – per hour, day, week, two weeks, half-month, month, quarter or year. Then set how many hours and days you normally work each week. The calculator converts the figure into every other pay period and lists the results in a table. If you take unpaid leave, enter the number of unpaid days off per year; the "adjusted" column then lowers every figure to reflect the days you are not paid.
How conversions work
Everything is first turned into an annual figure, then divided back out:
Annual = Bi-weekly × 26 · Annual = Semi-monthly × 24
Annual = Monthly × 12
Note the difference between bi-weekly (every two weeks, 26 paychecks a year) and semi-monthly (twice a month, 24 paychecks). A bi-weekly check is slightly smaller than a semi-monthly one for the same salary, but two months each year contain three bi-weekly paydays.
Quick rules of thumb
- For a 40-hour week, an hourly wage × 2,080 ≈ annual salary. $25/hour is about $52,000 a year.
- Divide an annual salary by 2,000 for a rough hourly rate that allows for two weeks off.
- Monthly pay is not four weeks of pay – a month averages about 4.33 weeks.
Gross versus take-home pay
These figures are gross pay, before income tax, social-security contributions, pension savings or health premiums are deducted. Take-home pay depends on your country, state and personal situation. Use the gross numbers here to compare job offers on equal terms, then check a local tax tool for net pay.
Salaried roles also differ in benefits – paid holidays, overtime eligibility, bonuses and retirement matching can be worth thousands a year, so compare the full package, not just the headline number.
Frequently asked questions
How many working hours are in a year?
With a 40-hour week and 52 weeks, there are 2,080 working hours. Paid holidays and vacation are usually included in that figure for salaried employees.
What is the difference between bi-weekly and semi-monthly pay?
Bi-weekly means every other week, 26 paychecks a year. Semi-monthly means twice a month, usually on fixed dates, 24 paychecks a year.
Is the result before or after tax?
Before tax. The calculator converts gross pay only; deductions vary by location and personal circumstances.
What are adjusted figures?
Adjusted figures subtract the pay for the unpaid days off you entered, giving a more realistic annual income for contractors and hourly workers.
Last reviewed 2026-10-27. This salary calculator is provided for general information; verify important decisions with a qualified professional.