Bonus Tax Calculator

How to use this calculator

1. Enter your gross bonus amount.
2. Add federal and state withholding percentages your employer applies to bonuses.
3. Include any flat other withholding if applicable (e.g., local tax, 401k, benefit catch-ups).
4. See estimated withholding, net bonus, and effective rate.

Inputs explained

Bonus amount

Gross bonus before taxes or deductions.

Federal withholding %

Supplemental federal rate your employer uses (often 22% or 37% for high amounts).

State withholding %

State supplemental rate; varies by state.

Other withholding

Any flat deductions like local tax, insurance catch-ups, or retirement contributions.

When to use it

• Estimating take-home from an annual or spot bonus.
• Planning 401(k) or Roth contributions from a bonus.
• Comparing supplemental vs. aggregate withholding treatments with your payroll team.

Tips & cautions

• Bonuses may be taxed at supplemental rates; confirm your payroll method (supplemental vs. aggregate).
• Consider increasing retirement deferrals if you want to shelter more of the bonus.
• Adjust state/local values to mirror your paystub history for accuracy.
• Simplifies payroll calculations; does not model FICA caps, local taxes, or aggregate withholding rules.
• Actual net may differ if you change W-4 elections or hit wage bases mid-year.

Worked examples

Deep dive

FAQs

What federal rate do bonuses use?

Employers often use a 22% supplemental rate for most bonuses; large bonuses can trigger 37%. Check your paystub or payroll policy.

Are FICA taxes included?

This tool assumes FICA is part of your other withholding if needed. Actual payroll will still apply Social Security/Medicare until wage bases are met.

How do I handle local taxes?

Add them to other withholding as a flat amount if you know it, or increase state % to approximate.

Can I defer more to 401(k) on a bonus?

Often yes—many employers let you set a special bonus deferral. That can reduce taxable wages on the bonus.

Why is my net different from this estimate?

Payroll may use aggregate methods, FICA caps, local taxes, or different supplemental rates. Use your employer’s exact rates for the closest match.

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