Tax Guide · Bonuses · 2026
Bonus vs Salary: Why Your Bonus Is Taxed More (2026)
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A bonus is ordinary wage income for your annual return, but a bonus check can look more heavily taxed because payroll may use a supplemental-wage withholding method. Review IRS Publication 15 for the current method and percentage.
Regular-Wage Modeling: $100,000 vs. $110,000
The calculator does not model a supplemental bonus check. This table uses engine-derived regular-wage estimates to show the annual take-home difference between a $100,000 salary and $110,000 of wages.
| Texas wages | Annual take-home |
|---|---|
| $100,000 salary | $79,180 |
| $110,000 wages | $86,215 |
The modeled regular-wage take-home increase is $7,035. Your actual bonus check can differ because employer payroll treatment, state withholding, benefits elections, and year-to-date wages matter.
Review the bonus-specific withholding explanation.
Open the bonus calculator →Frequently Asked Questions
Is a bonus taxed more than salary?
A bonus is ordinary wage income for your annual return. The check can look more heavily withheld because payroll may use a supplemental-wage withholding method.
What supplemental withholding rate applies to a bonus?
Review IRS Publication 15 for the current supplemental-wage method and percentage. Your final annual tax depends on your full-year return.
How can I estimate bonus take-home?
Compare regular-wage calculator results before and after adding the bonus amount, then review your employer's supplemental-wage payroll method.
Figures and methods are based on official-source data encoded in the calculator. Not tax advice. Review the methodology and consult a qualified professional for your situation.