Total Compensation Calculator Guide
Look beyond base pay. Total comp includes benefits, bonuses, taxes, and perks.
Components of total comp
- Base pay (hourly × hours × weeks)
- Overtime and shift differentials
- Employer benefits: health, retirement match, insurance
- Bonuses and profit sharing
- Taxes and withholdings (to estimate net)
Method
- Calculate annual base income
- Add value of employer-paid benefits
- Estimate variable comp (bonuses/OT) conservatively
- Compare offers on total value, not just base
FAQs
How do I value benefits?
Use employer cost or market estimates (insurance premiums, match %, etc.).
Should I compare pre- or post-tax?
Look at both: pre-tax total comp and expected take-home for budgeting.
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