Q & A
What are the maximum taxable earnings amounts and the Social Security tax rate for 2013?
When you have wages or self-employment income covered by Social Security, you pay Social Security taxes each year up to a maximum amount set by law. For 2013, you will pay Social Security taxes on income below $113,700. You must pay Medicare taxes on all income.
Also, beginning in 2013 you must pay 0.9 percent more in Medicare taxes on earned individual income of more than $200,000 ($250,000 for married couples filing jointly). The tax rates shown below do not include the 0.9 percent:
- Employees — the Social Security tax rate is 6.2 percent on income under $113,700 through the end of 2013. The Medicare tax rate is 1.45 percent of all income;
- Employers — the Social Security tax rate is 6.2 percent. The Medicate tax rate is 1.45 percent; and
- Self-employed —the Social Security tax rate is 12.4 percent on income under $113,700 through the end of 2013. The Medicare tax rate is 2.9 percent.
More Information
2013 Social Security Changes
Paying Income Tax on Social Security Benefits
Benefits Planner: Withholding Income Tax From Your Social Security Benefits
Maximum Taxable Earnings Each Year