Understand FICA taxes on your pay stub. Learn the 2026 Social Security and Medicare rates, wage caps, and how to calculate your FICA withholding.
FICA is the largest payroll tax most Americans pay, yet many don't understand what it is, how it's calculated, or where the money goes. This guide breaks down everything about the Federal Insurance Contributions Act tax.
FICA stands for Federal Insurance Contributions Act. It's a payroll tax that funds two critical social programs:
FICA isn't optional — it's withheld from every paycheck automatically, and your employer matches your contribution dollar for dollar.
Published by the BestPaystubGen Editorial Team, covering paystubs, payroll compliance, federal and state taxes, W-2 forms, 1099 contractors, FICA, gross vs net pay, and IRS regulations updated for 2026.
This paystub generator is a simulation/mockup tool for personal record-keeping and verification purposes only.