FICA taxes
Also called: Payroll tax, Social Security tax, Medicare tax
Social Security and Medicare taxes withheld from every paycheck: 6.2% and 1.45% of wages, matched by your employer.
The Federal Insurance Contributions Act tax has two parts. Social Security tax is 6.2% of wages up to the 2026 wage base of $184,500; wages above that aren't taxed for Social Security. Medicare tax is 1.45% of all wages, with no cap.
High earners also pay the Additional Medicare Tax of 0.9% on wages above $200,000 (single) or $250,000 (married filing jointly). Your employer pays a matching 6.2% and 1.45%; self-employed people pay both halves.
Traditional 401(k) contributions lower your income tax but not your FICA tax.
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Disclaimer: Definitions are general education, not financial, tax, or legal advice. Figures are for the 2026 tax year unless noted.