What is the Medicare tax rate on all wages?

The Medicare tax rate on all wages is 1.45%. This rate applies to all earned income without any income limit, which means it is deducted from wages regardless of the total amount earned. Additionally, it is important to note that there is an additional Medicare tax of 0.9% that applies to high earners making above a certain threshold, but the standard rate for all earning levels remains at 1.45%. This structure is established to help fund Medicare, which provides health insurance to individuals aged 65 and over, as well as younger individuals with disabilities.

Understanding the correct rate is crucial for both employers and employees, particularly in the context of payroll calculations and tax compliance, ensuring that the appropriate amounts are withheld and reported to the IRS.