RSU Tax Withholding Estimator

When RSUs vest, the fair market value of the shares is ordinary W-2 income. Your employer withholds taxes — usually by selling shares to cover (at the default 22% federal supplemental rate). If your actual bracket is 32–37%, this creates a large tax shortfall. This estimator shows exactly what you'll owe and how many shares are sold to cover taxes.

Shares Vesting

Share FMV on Vest Date ($)

Employer Withholding Rate (%)

Your Actual Marginal Rate (%)

State Income Tax Rate (%)

FICA Rate (%) — max 7.65%

Your Annual Base Salary ($) — for FICA cap check

Gross RSU Income

Shares Sold to Cover (22% fed)

Federal Withheld by Employer

State Tax Withheld

FICA Withheld

Your Actual Federal Tax Owed

Tax Shortfall / Overage

Net Shares Received