Bonus Tax Calculator
How much of a bonus reaches your bank account after the 22% federal supplemental withholding, Social Security, Medicare and state withholding.
Take-home from a bonus (22% federal, 7.65% FICA, 5% state)
| Bonus | Withheld | You keep |
|---|---|---|
| $1,000 | $347 | $654 |
| $5,000 | $1,732 | $3,268 |
| $10,000 | $3,465 | $6,535 |
| $25,000 | $8,663 | $16,338 |
| $50,000 | $17,325 | $32,675 |
How this calculator works
Employers may withhold federal tax on bonuses paid separately at a flat 22% (37% on supplemental wages over $1 million in a year). Social Security (6.2%, until wages reach the wage base) and Medicare (1.45%, plus 0.9% over $200,000) apply as to any pay; states set their own rates.
What it assumes
- Withholding isn't the final tax: at filing, the bonus is taxed with your other income at your actual rates.
Questions people ask
Why are bonuses taxed so high?
They aren't taxed more than wages; they're often withheld at a flat 22%, which can be more than your actual rate. The difference comes back as a smaller tax bill or a refund.
How much of a $10,000 bonus will I get?
About $6,500 with 22% federal, 7.65% Social Security and Medicare and 5% state withholding.
Can I lower the tax on my bonus?
Putting part of it into a 401(k) or HSA, if your plan allows, lowers income tax on that part.
Is a bonus taxed as income?
Yes, as ordinary wages on your return, whatever rate was withheld.
Related calculators
Sources
Updated by the RateHerald team. The maths is tested against worked examples; report a problem.