Bonus Tax Calculator 2026
Find out exactly how much of your bonus you'll take home after federal (22%), state, Social Security, and Medicare taxes.
Quick Bonus Take-Home Estimates (Federal + FICA Only)
*Estimates before state tax. Add state tax (0-13%) for your actual take-home.
Used to calculate Social Security cap and Additional Medicare
Extra amount per W-4 election
How Bonuses Are Taxed in 2026
The IRS requires employers to withhold a flat 22% federal income tax on supplemental wages (bonuses, commissions, overtime) up to $1 million. Above $1 million, the rate is 37%.
Social Security tax stops at $176,100 in total wages for 2026.
| Gross Bonus | Federal (22%) | FICA (7.65%) | Total Tax | Take-Home* |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| $1,000 | $220 | $77 | $297 | $703 |
| $2,500 | $550 | $191 | $741 | $1,759 |
| $5,000 | $1,100 | $383 | $1,483 | $3,517 |
| $7,500 | $1,650 | $574 | $2,224 | $5,276 |
| $10,000 | $2,200 | $765 | $2,965 | $7,035 |
| $15,000 | $3,300 | $1,148 | $4,448 | $10,552 |
| $20,000 | $4,400 | $1,530 | $5,930 | $14,070 |
| $25,000 | $5,500 | $1,913 | $7,413 | $17,587 |
| $50,000 | $11,000 | $3,825 | $14,825 | $35,175 |
*Before state taxes. Add state tax (0-13.3%) for actual take-home. California adds ~10%, New York ~7%, Texas/Florida $0.
Highest State Rates
No State Income Tax (0%)
*NH only taxes interest and dividends, not wages/bonuses.
Living in a no-income-tax state means more of your bonus stays in your pocket!
Withholding vs. Actual Tax Owed
The 22% federal withholding on bonuses is just an estimate. Your actual tax rate depends on your total income and tax bracket. If you're in a lower bracket (10%, 12%), you may get a refund. If you're in a higher bracket (32%, 35%, 37%), you may owe additional tax when filing your return.
401(k) Contribution
Contribute extra to your 401(k) from your bonus. $1,000 contributed = ~$220 less federal tax withheld.
HSA Contribution
Max out your HSA ($4,150 individual, $8,300 family in 2024). Triple tax advantage.
Charitable Donations
Donate to charity and itemize deductions. Get tax deduction for the donation amount.
Defer if Possible
Some employers let you defer bonus to next year. Useful if expecting lower income next year.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Last updated: 2026-01-25 • Tax rates verified per IRS Publication 15-T • Used by 75,000+ professionals monthly