How the bonus Tax Calculator works
Bonuses are supplemental wages, and most employers withhold a flat 22% federally (37% on amounts above $1 million in a year), plus the normal 6.2% Social Security and 1.45% Medicare, plus your state's supplemental rate. Withholding is not your final tax: the bonus is taxed at your regular rate when you file, and any over-withholding comes back as refund.
Take-home = Bonus − 22% federal − 7.65% FICA − state rate
Example: a $5,000 bonus with 4.25% state withholding loses $1,100 federal, $382.50 FICA, and $212.50 state, leaving about $3,305.
Frequently asked questions
Why was so much taken out of my bonus?
The flat 22% method often over-withholds compared with your real bracket, especially for middle incomes. The difference reconciles at tax time, so a heavily-withheld bonus usually boosts your refund.
Is a bonus taxed at a higher rate than salary?
No. Withholding methods differ, but at filing time bonus income is ordinary income taxed at your normal rates.
What is the aggregate method?
Some employers add the bonus to a regular paycheck and withhold using the standard tables, which can take out more or less than 22%. Your paystub will show which method was used.
Does Social Security always apply to bonuses?
Only up to the annual wage base ($184,500 in 2026). If your salary already passed it, the 6.2% portion drops off and your bonus take-home rises.