How are bonuses taxed?

Was wondering how bonuses are taxed when you actually get the physical check/direct deposit. I’m sure it’s different everywhere, but was wondering if it’s let’s say an 80k bonus and base salary is 110k, how much would u net from that and then how much would you get back from your tax refund? I am not really sure if that’s how it works, but that’s what I have gathered from previous threads.

7 Comments
 

Is that after tax refund? I’ll actually be in chicago, but i’m assuming that will be relatively similar.

 

Your tax refund depends on how you do your withholding and deductions and really isn't related to pay (as much as it can be since pay effects taxes). Ideal world your withholding is done perfectly and you don't get a refund.

My recommendation is assume you get zero refund and actually have to pay more in taxes. This will prepare you for the future when you will have more income streams and higher pay so more taxes owed.

 

Come tax time, bonuses are taxed no different than wages. However, your employer can withhold your paycheck taxes 2 different ways:

-method A: pretend your bonus is a normal paycheck. The system then annualizes your bonus and you get the whole thing basically taxed at the top marginal rate. However, you are over taxed, and you’ll get cash back come tax time.

-method B: tax bonuses below $1mn at 22% and above at 37%. In this case, you are being likely under taxed and will likely owe money come tax time.

 

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