{
    "title": "USA Paycheck Input Readiness Checklist",
    "updated": "2026-08-06",
    "methodology": "The checklist identifies data fields commonly needed before a paycheck estimate and links users to the official IRS withholding estimator for decisions.",
    "limitations": "It does not calculate an official paycheck, cover every state/local rule, or replace payroll and tax advice.",
    "columns": [
        "Input",
        "Example",
        "Why it changes the estimate"
    ],
    "rows": [
        [
            "Tax year",
            "2026",
            "Rules and thresholds change"
        ],
        [
            "Gross pay",
            "$2,500 per period",
            "Starting compensation"
        ],
        [
            "Pay frequency",
            "Biweekly",
            "Determines annualization"
        ],
        [
            "Filing status",
            "User-selected",
            "Affects withholding calculation"
        ],
        [
            "Multiple jobs",
            "Yes or no",
            "Can change withholding needs"
        ],
        [
            "Pre-tax retirement",
            "$150",
            "May reduce taxable wages"
        ],
        [
            "Health deductions",
            "$90 pre-tax",
            "Tax treatment varies"
        ],
        [
            "HSA/FSA",
            "$75",
            "May affect taxable pay"
        ],
        [
            "Additional withholding",
            "$40",
            "Directly changes check estimate"
        ],
        [
            "State",
            "Selected state",
            "State and local systems vary"
        ],
        [
            "Local tax",
            "City or locality",
            "Some jurisdictions add withholding"
        ],
        [
            "Year-to-date values",
            "Current totals",
            "Useful for midyear review"
        ],
        [
            "Other income/credits",
            "User-specific",
            "Can affect overall liability"
        ]
    ]
}