Bonus Tax Calculator

Calculate tax withholding on your bonus. See net bonus after federal (22% flat or aggregate method), FICA, and state taxes.

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Flat Method Net Bonus

$7,035.00

Flat Effective Tax Rate

29.65%

Aggregate Method Net Bonus

$7,035.00

Aggregate Effective Rate

29.65%

Flat Method (22% Supplemental Rate)

Federal Withholding (22%)$2,200.00
FICA (SS + Medicare)$765.00
State Tax$0.00
Total Tax$2,965.00
Net Bonus$7,035.00

Aggregate Method (Combined with Salary)

Federal Withholding$2,200.00
FICA (SS + Medicare)$765.00
State Tax$0.00
Total Tax$2,965.00
Net Bonus$7,035.00

Flat vs. Aggregate Method

Most employers use the flat 22% supplemental rate for bonuses under $1M. The aggregate method combines your bonus with your regular pay to calculate withholding based on your actual tax bracket. Your actual tax liability is determined when you file your return — these are withholding estimates only.

Use the Bonus Tax Calculator above to calculate your results. Enter your values and see instant results — all calculations run in your browser.

Disclaimer: This calculator is for informational purposes only and does not constitute tax, financial, or legal advice. Results are estimates based on the information you provide and current rates. Always consult a qualified tax professional or financial advisor for advice specific to your situation.

How It Works

The Bonus Tax Calculator helps you understand how much of your bonus will actually end up in your pocket after taxes. Bonuses are often taxed at a higher rate than regular paychecks, and this calculator ensures you're not surprised by the net amount.

This calculator estimates the tax withholding using the supplemental wage tax rules, which typically involve a flat 22% federal withholding rate for bonuses under a certain threshold ($1 million) or an aggregate method if paid with regular wages. State and local taxes are then applied based on your location and relevant tax brackets.

Remember that this is an estimate; your actual tax liability might differ based on your overall income and deductions. A common mistake is assuming bonuses are taxed the same as regular wages, which can lead to a lower-than-expected net bonus.

Example: $5,000 Bonus

  1. 1 Input a bonus amount of $5,000, assuming a federal supplemental withholding rate of 22% and an estimated blended state/local tax rate of 5%.
  2. 2 Federal Withholding: $5,000 * 0.22 = $1,100. State/Local Withholding: $5,000 * 0.05 = $250. Total Withholding: $1,100 + $250 = $1,350.
  3. 3 Your estimated net bonus after taxes would be $5,000 - $1,350 = $3,650.
  4. 4 Even with a seemingly large bonus, a significant portion goes towards taxes. This calculator helps you manage expectations and plan your finances accordingly.

Source: IRS — Publication 15 (Circular E), Employer's Tax Guide · Last updated: April 2026

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are bonuses taxed at 22%?
Bonuses are not taxed at a special rate. The IRS requires employers to withhold a flat 22% for federal income tax on supplemental wages up to $1 million (37% above $1 million). Your actual tax rate is determined when you file your return.
Will I get bonus tax back when I file my return?
Possibly. If the 22% flat withholding is more than your actual marginal rate, you will get the difference back as a refund. If your marginal rate is higher than 22%, you may owe additional tax.
Are FICA taxes also withheld from bonuses?
Yes. Bonuses are subject to Social Security tax (6.2% up to $184,500 in 2026) and Medicare tax (1.45%, plus 0.9% above $200,000). These are in addition to the federal income tax withholding.