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Whether you’re an employee checking your paycheque or an employer estimating true payroll cost, this calculator covers both sides, switch between Employee and Employer mode to see either view.
+ Advanced options (overtime, bonus, TD1, RRSP)
Independent estimate based on 2026 CRA federal/provincial payroll formulas, Revenu Québec figures, and published CPP/CPP2/QPP/QPP2, EI and QPIP rates. Taxable benefits are assumed pensionable (count toward CPP/QPP) but not insurable (excluded from EI/QPIP), treatment varies by benefit type in practice. RRSP/pension contributions reduce taxable income only, not CPP/QPP or EI/QPIP earnings, matching standard payroll treatment. Not affiliated with the CRA or Government of Canada. Actual payroll may differ based on your employer's specific deductions and other factors. This tool does not constitute tax or financial advice.
Independent estimate of statutory employer payroll costs (CPP/QPP, EI, QPIP) based on 2026 published rates. Does not include optional employer costs such as extended health benefits, pension matching beyond CPP/QPP, workers' compensation premiums, or vacation pay accruals, which vary by employer and province. Not affiliated with the CRA or Government of Canada.
What “payroll” actually covers
Payroll isn’t just gross pay minus tax, it’s the full set of calculations an employer runs every pay period: gross wages, statutory deductions (federal/provincial tax, CPP/QPP, EI/QPIP), and the employer’s own matching contributions. This calculator runs the same math for both sides. Household employers run the same calculations, read our guide to nanny payroll when you employ a caregiver.
Employee view vs. Employer view
- Employee view: gross pay → deductions → net pay, exactly what shows on a pay stub
- Employer view: the employee figures, plus the employer’s own CPP/QPP match, EI at 1.4× the employee rate, and QPIP (Quebec), the true cost of employing someone
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a payroll calculator and a paycheck calculator?
They are often used interchangeably. "Payroll" more commonly implies the employer's perspective (total cost), while "paycheck" implies the employee's take-home view, this tool covers both.
Do employers pay the same tax rates as employees?
No, employers don't pay income tax on employee wages, but they do match CPP/QPP contributions dollar-for-dollar and pay EI at 1.4x the employee rate.
Is this suitable for small business payroll?
It gives an accurate estimate of statutory costs (CPP/QPP, EI/QPIP) per employee, but doesn't replace full payroll software for remittances, ROEs, or T4 filing.
Does this include workers compensation premiums?
No, workers' compensation (WCB/WSIB) premiums vary by province, industry, and claims history, and aren't a fixed statutory rate we can calculate generically.
Can I calculate payroll for an hourly employee?
Yes, switch "I'm paid" to "An hourly wage" and enter the rate and hours; the calculator annualizes it before running the same payroll math.
How often should I re-check payroll figures?
Whenever new CRA, Revenu Québec, or ESDC rates are published, typically once a year, occasionally with a mid-year update.
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