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Bonus Tax Calculator 2026
Free bonus tax calculator for 2026: the 22% federal withholding on bonuses (37% over $1 million), Social Security, Medicare and state tax, what you take home, and whether you'll get some back.
Your pay and bonus
Bonus after taxes
$3,518
| Bonus | $5,000 |
| Federal income tax withheld (22%) | $1,100 |
| Social Security (6.2%) | $310 |
| Medicare | $73 |
| Total withheld | $1,483 (29.6%) |
With your salary the bonus falls in the 12% federal bracket, so its real federal tax is about $600. About $500 too much is withheld; it normally comes back in your tax refund.
How it's worked out
- Most employers withhold a flat 22% federal income tax from a bonus paid separately (37% on anything over $1 million in the year).
- Social Security (6.2% up to the yearly cap) and Medicare (1.45%, plus 0.9% on wages over $200,000) come on top.
- If the bonus is paid together with your normal pay, the employer may use the aggregate method instead: it withholds as if it were one big paycheck, which can be more or less than 22%.
2026 rules last checked October 2026. Real tax uses the standard deduction and no other income. Not legal, tax or financial advice. 🔒 Everything stays on your device.
✅ Rules last checked:
📚 Official sources: IRS Publication 15 (2026), section 7 · IRS: tax rates and brackets
We build every tool from the official rules and re-check them when they change. Always confirm with the official source before you rely on a result.
🛠️ Spotted a mistake or an out-of-date rule? Tell us
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Questions people ask
Are bonuses taxed at a higher rate?+
No. Bonuses are taxed as normal income. They often have more withheld (a flat 22% federal), but your real tax is worked out on your whole year when you file.
How much is taken from a $1,000 bonus?+
Usually $297: $220 federal, $62 Social Security and $14.50 Medicare, plus any state tax. You get about $704.
Will I get bonus tax back?+
If your top bracket is 10% or 12%, the 22% withheld is more than you owe, so the extra comes back in your refund. In the 24% bracket or above, you may owe a little more.
Can I put my bonus in my 401(k)?+
Often yes, if your plan allows deferrals from bonuses. That avoids federal income tax on that part now (FICA still applies).