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What is a Payroll Tax?

Payroll taxes are an integral part of our financial landscape, affecting both businesses and employees. But what exactly is a payroll tax? How does it work, and what impact does it have on our finances?  This comprehensive guide explains what a payroll tax is, how it works, its purpose, rates, and implications for businesses and employees. Discover everything you need to know about payroll taxes and how they affect your finances!

A lot of people are already familiar with payroll taxes. These are taxes paid by employees and their employers to the government. The way this works is that employers deduct taxes from employee paychecks and send the money to the government. In addition to the employee’s portion of Social Security and Medicare taxes (FICA). These taxes also include federal, state, and local income taxes.

How much is a Payroll Tax?

1. The cost of Medicare and Social Security for an employee is 7.65% (6.2% for Social Security and 1.45% for Medicare).
2. The same 7.65% tax is also paid by the employer for an employee, making a total tax payment of 15.3%.
3. There is an income limit over which Social Security is not liable for tax. The U.S. payroll tax‘s FICA component is a regressive tax because the income cap for 2022 was $147,000 ($160,200 in 2023).
4. Medicare has no income limit, however those who make more than $200,000 must contribute an additional 0.9% of their income.

At its core, a payroll tax is a tax levied on employers or employees (or both) based on the wages and salaries paid to employees. It is typically calculated as a percentage of the employee’s income and is used to fund various government programs and initiatives.

Payroll taxes serve as a crucial source of revenue for governments at the federal, state, and local levels. These funds contribute to financing social security programs, healthcare systems, unemployment benefits, and other public services aimed at promoting the welfare of citizens.

Types of Payroll Taxes

Payroll taxes encompass various components, each serving a specific purpose. Let’s explore the different types of payroll taxes:

1. Federal Income Tax: The federal income tax is a tax imposed by the federal government on an individual’s income. Employers are responsible for withholding federal income tax from their employees’ wages and remitting it to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).
2.  Social Security Tax (FICA Tax):  The Social Security tax, also known as the Federal Insurance Contributions Act (FICA) tax, funds the Social Security program, which provides retirement benefits, disability insurance, and survivor benefits. It is divided into two parts: the Old Age, Survivors, and Disability Insurance (OASDI) tax and the Medicare tax.
   •  OASDI Tax: The OASDI tax funds retirement and disability benefits. It is calculated as a percentage of the employee’s wages, subject to a wage base limit set annually by the Social Security Administration.
   • Medicare Tax: The Medicare tax finances the Medicare program, which provides healthcare coverage for individuals aged 65 and older and certain individuals with disabilities. It is calculated as a percentage of the employee’s wages, with no wage base limit.
3. State and Local Income Taxes: In addition to federal income tax, some jurisdictions impose state and local income taxes. These taxes vary by location and are deducted from employees’ wages to support state and local government programs.
4. Unemployment Insurance Tax: The unemployment insurance tax is levied on employers to fund the unemployment benefits program. The tax rate varies based on factors such as the employer’s industry, experience rating, and the overall unemployment rate.
5.  Additional Taxes: Depending on the jurisdiction, additional payroll taxes may apply, such as disability insurance taxes, temporary disability insurance taxes, or paid family leave taxes.

Priority Tax Relief makes sure that taxpayers are aware of their options. For a FREE Tax Consultation, call 800-493-8308.