Bonus After-Tax Calculator (Estimate)
Bonuses feel over-taxed because of flat withholding rates. Enter your bonus and rates to estimate what hits your account — and why the difference often comes back at tax time.
| Total withheld | — |
| Federal | — |
| FICA | — |
| State | — |
| You keep | — |
Why bonuses look over-taxed
US employers withhold a flat 22% federal rate on supplemental wages (bonuses, commissions) up to $1 million, plus FICA and state tax. On a $5,000 bonus with 5% state tax, about $1,733 is withheld — you see roughly $3,267.
Net bonus = Bonus × (1 − Federal% − FICA% − State%)
The part everyone misses: withholding is not the final tax
Your bonus is ultimately taxed as ordinary income when you file. The 22% is just a withholding estimate:
- If your marginal rate is below 22% (income under roughly $50k single), the over-withheld amount comes back as a bigger refund.
- If your marginal rate is above 22% (higher earners), you may owe a little more at filing.
So the calculator answers "what lands in my account this month" — your true cost settles at tax time. Planning what to do with it? The loan payoff and compound interest calculators show what a lump sum is worth in each direction.
Frequently asked questions
How much tax is taken from a $5,000 bonus?
Typically about 30–35%: 22% flat federal withholding + 7.65% FICA + state tax. On $5,000 with 5% state tax, roughly $1,733 is withheld, leaving about $3,267.
Why is my bonus taxed at 40%?
High state rates, extra 401(k) deductions, or the aggregate withholding method can push the withheld share up. Remember withholding is provisional — the real tax is set by your bracket at filing.
Do I get bonus tax back?
If 22% withholding exceeds your actual marginal rate, yes — the difference returns as a refund when you file. Lower earners commonly get part of it back.
Can I reduce tax on a bonus?
The main legal levers: contribute part of it to a traditional 401(k) (pre-tax, if your plan allows bonus deferrals) or an HSA. Both cut taxable income; ask payroll before the bonus is paid.
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Last updated: 2026-07-07