Social Security Tax Calculator
Calculate Social Security (6.2%) and Medicare (1.45%) taxes on W-2 or self-employment income using the 2026 wage base of $176,100.
Social Security Tax in 2026
The Social Security wage base increases annually with wage inflation. In 2026, the first $176,100 of wages are subject to the 6.2% SS tax. Once you earn past that amount — typically mid-year for six-figure earners — SS withholding stops and your take-home pay effectively increases by 6.2% for the remainder of the year.
FICA for Self-Employed Workers
Self-employed individuals pay the full 15.3% SE tax (12.4% SS + 2.9% Medicare) on 92.35% of net SE income. The 92.35% multiplier approximates the employer deduction that employees receive. Half of SE tax is deductible as an above-the-line deduction, providing partial tax relief.
Multiple Jobs and Over-Withholding
If you hold multiple jobs and your combined wages exceed $176,100, each employer independently withholds SS tax without knowing about the other. You may over-withhold throughout the year. The excess is claimed as a credit (Form 1040, Schedule 3) when you file your return — reducing your balance due or increasing your refund.