Bonus Tax Calculator

Got a bonus coming? Here's what the check will actually look like. Most employers withhold a flat 22% for federal tax — this calculator shows that, plus Social Security, Medicare, and your state's bonus tax where it applies. Results update as you type, and everything runs in your browser.

"Why is my bonus taxed so much?" — it usually isn't

Here's the most common mix-up about bonuses: withholding is not the same as tax. The 22% that comes out of your bonus check is just a down payment the IRS makes your employer collect in advance. When you file your tax return, your bonus is taxed exactly like your salary — at your normal rates — and the 22% already taken out counts toward what you owe. If too much came out, you get it back as a refund; if too little, you settle the difference. A lot of people feel bonuses are "taxed higher" because 22% is more than the effective rate on their regular paychecks, but the final tax on a bonus dollar is the same as on a salary dollar.

Two ways employers withhold: flat rate vs. combined check

The IRS gives employers two options for a bonus. If the bonus is paid as its own check (or clearly separated on your statement), the employer may use the flat rate: 22% — simple, and what this calculator uses. If the bonus is folded into a regular paycheck instead, the employer uses the aggregate method: the bonus is added to your normal pay and the whole check is withheld as if you earned that much every pay period. That often takes out noticeably more in that one check — and it evens out when you file, for the same reason as above. Either way, Social Security (6.2%, until your year's wages pass $184,500 in 2026) and Medicare (1.45%, plus 0.9% on wages over $200,000) come out of a bonus just like regular pay.

State tax on bonuses

States that tax wages generally tax bonuses too, several of them at their own flat rates. California withholds 10.23% on bonuses (and takes its 1.3% SDI as well). New York State withholds 11.70%, New York City adds 4.25% for residents, and Yonkers adds 1.95975% for residents; New York's Paid Family Leave contribution (0.432%) also comes out. Texas and Florida take nothing — no state income tax. Pick your state above to see your own numbers.

A quick example

A $5,000 bonus with no state tax: $1,100 federal (22%), $310 Social Security, $72.50 Medicare — you keep $3,517.50 from the check, and any over- or under-withholding is settled on your tax return.

Estimate for general information only — not tax, legal, or financial advice. Federal flat rate: IRS Publication 15-T (2026), supplemental wages; 37% rate above $1 million per Treas. Reg. 31.3402(g)-1. California: DE 44 (2026), 10.23% bonus rate and 1.3% SDI. New York: NYS-50-T (1/26) supplemental rates; Paid Family Leave 0.432% (2026). See our methodology & sources.