What Is FICA? Social Security & Medicare Taxes Explained
Updated June 12, 2026 · PayCalc Editorial
FICA is the line on your paycheck that funds Social Security and Medicare. Here is what it is and how much it costs you in 2026.
The two FICA taxes
- Social Security: 6.2% of wages, up to the 2026 wage base of $184,500.
- Medicare: 1.45% of all wages, plus an extra 0.9% on wages over $200,000.
Together that is 7.65% withheld from most paychecks — and your employer pays a matching 7.65%.
FICA vs. income tax
FICA is separate from federal income tax. It is not affected by your filing status or deductions — it comes straight off your gross wages. Self-employed people pay both halves (15.3%) as self-employment tax.
See FICA alongside federal and state tax in your take-home pay breakdown.