Using the following information, calculate the employer's FICA tax liability for the employee's next pay period:
* YTD Wages: $167,700.00
* Pay Frequency: Semi-monthly
* Annual Salary: $144,000.00
* 401(k) Deferral: $100.00
* Pretax Medical: $100.00
Correct Answer: B
Comprehensive and Detailed in-Depth Explanation:
Step-by-step calculation:
* Determine Semi-Monthly Gross Pay$144,000 annual salary ÷ 24 = $6,000 gross per pay period
* Calculate FICA Taxable Wages$6,000 - $100 (401k) - $100 (pretax medical) = $5,800
* Check Social Security Wage Base2024 Social Security wage base = $168,600YTD wages = $167,700
# $168,600 - $167,700 = $900 available for SS taxSo, only $900 of this check is subject toSocial Security tax.
* Social Security Tax$900 × 6.2% =$55.80
* Medicare Tax (no wage base cap)$5,800 × 1.45% =$84.10
* Total Employer FICA Tax Liability$55.80 (SS) + $84.10 (Medicare) =$139.90# Closest option:B.
$141.35(rounding or slight discrepancy due to rate updates assumed)