Your first nurse paycheck, decoded

THE BASICS

1. Gross pay vs net pay

• Gross: what you earnedHours x rate, plus differentials
• Net: what hits your bankAfter taxes and deductions
• The gap surprises everyoneHere's where it goes

TAXES

2. Where your taxes go

• Federal income taxSet by your W-4 form
• Social Security: 6.2%Medicare: 1.45%
• State and local taxesDepend on where you live and work

Source: IRS.

YOUR 403(b)

3. Retirement comes out first

• Most hospitals offer a 403(b)Like a 401(k) for nonprofits
• You can put in up to $24,500 in 2026Most nurses start much smaller
• Ask about the employer matchIt's part of your pay

Source: IRS.

BENEFITS

4. Deductions that protect you

• Health, dental and vision premiumsOften taken out before taxes
• Life and disability insuranceSome is free from your employer
• HSA or FSA if you choose onePre-tax money for health costs

CHECK YOUR STUB

5. On your first payday

• Hours and differentials match your shifts
• Your W-4 withholding looks right
• Your 403(b) percentage is what you chose
• Report mistakes to payroll right away

Educational only, not financial or tax advice. Talk to a fee-only fiduciary or CPA about your situation.