Bonus Tax Calculator (2026)
Estimate the take-home amount of a bonus after the flat federal withholding rate and payroll taxes.
Example bonus take-home
How this calculator works
Employers usually withhold a flat 22 percent federal rate on bonuses paid separately (37 percent on the part over 1 million dollars), plus 6.2 percent Social Security and 1.45 percent Medicare. We also subtract the state rate you enter. Your actual tax is set when you file, based on your total income, so you may get some back or owe more. If your pay has already passed the Social Security limit of $184,500 this year, you will not pay that 6.2 percent.
FAQ
Why does my bonus look so small?
Flat withholding plus payroll taxes can take a big share. Part of it may come back as a refund when you file.
Is a bonus taxed at a higher rate?
The withholding is flat, but the real tax is just part of your yearly income and uses normal brackets.
Can I reduce the withholding?
Putting part of the bonus into a 401(k) can lower the taxable amount.
Rates and limits last updated: October 2026. This is an estimate for general information only, not financial, tax or legal advice.