by PaycheckScope Admin
Bonuses are supplemental wages. Employers often withhold at a flat 22% federal rate (or 37% above $1 million), which can make a bonus check feel smaller than expected.
That withholding is not your final tax bill. When you file your return, bonuses are taxed at your ordinary income rates like regular wages. If too much was withheld, you get a refund; if too little, you owe more.
When comparing job offers, include annual bonuses in total compensation and run after-tax estimates with PaycheckScope's job offer comparison tool.