FICA (Federal Insurance Contributions Act) tax funds Social Security and Medicare — it's separate from your income tax.
| Tax | Employee Rate | Wage Cap (2025) |
|---|---|---|
| Social Security | 6.2% | $176,100 |
| Medicare | 1.45% | No cap |
| Additional Medicare Tax | 0.9% (above threshold) | $200K single / $250K MFJ |
Your employer pays a matching 6.2% and 1.45% on your behalf — that portion isn't deducted from your paycheck.
If you're self-employed, you pay the full 15.3% (12.4% Social Security + 2.9% Medicare) yourself, called Self-Employment Tax — see our Self-Employment Tax Guide.
Calculate your exact FICA tax.
Use the FICA Tax Calculator →The Social Security wage base is adjusted annually. Verify current figures with the Social Security Administration.