Bonus Tax Calculator

Calculate how much of your supplemental bonus check you keep after flat taxes.

Enter Your Bonus Details

$
?Flat method withholds a fixed 22% federal rate. Aggregate combines the bonus with regular pay at your marginal rate.
?Supplemental withholding rate your state applies to bonuses. Auto-filled estimate; editable.
%

Tip: press Enter to recalculate instantly.

Take-Home Bonus
$0.00
  • Net Bonus$0.00
  • Federal Supplemental$0.00
  • FICA (7.65%)$0.00
  • State Supplemental$0.00
  • Gross Bonus$0.00

Why Are Bonuses Taxed Higher Than Regular Income?

The IRS classifies bonuses as Supplemental Wages. Employers typically use one of two withholding methods:

  • Percentage Method (Flat 22%): Employers withhold a flat 22% for federal income tax on supplemental wages under $1 million, regardless of your standard tax bracket.
  • Aggregate Method: The bonus is combined with your regular paycheck, making it appear as if you earn a much higher annual salary, which often results in temporarily higher tax withholding.

Note: Supplemental withholding is an advance payment. When you file your annual tax return, your bonus is taxed at your actual marginal rate, and any over-withheld taxes are refunded.

Formula

Net Bonus = Gross − Federal (22%) − FICA (7.65%) − State Tax

Supplemental Withholding Rates (2026)

TaxRate
Federal Supplemental (flat)22%
Social Security6.2%
Medicare1.45%
State SupplementalVaries by state

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. On your annual tax return (Form 1040), bonuses are merged with your regular income and taxed at your standard marginal rate.

You can request your employer to direct a portion of your bonus directly into a traditional 401(k) or Health Savings Account (HSA) before taxes are withheld.