Tennessee variant. This is a Tennessee-specific version of the Payroll Tax Estimator (Flat Rate), using pre-defined local figures (tax rates, median home and income values, and typical regional costs). For the full formula, methodology, and FAQ, open the main Payroll Tax Estimator (Flat Rate).
Tennessee employers owe federal payroll taxes (Social Security, Medicare, FUTA) plus state obligations (state unemployment only - no state income tax withholding).
Payroll tax obligations in Tennessee
Employers match the 6.2% Social Security and 1.45% Medicare withheld from employees, and pay FUTA (0.6% on the first $7,000 after credits) plus state unemployment insurance.
Tennessee has no state income tax, so you don't withhold state income tax - but you still pay state unemployment.
About taxes and housing in Tennessee
Tennessee levies no state income tax on wages, having fully repealed its tax on interest and dividend income in 2021.
Tennessee's effective property tax rate is relatively low near 0.67%, with median home values around $320,000.
Tennessee's economy includes music and tourism in Nashville and Memphis, automotive manufacturing, and healthcare.
Worked example: employer cost on $67,631
On a $67,631 salary, the employer's FICA match alone is 7.65% = $5,174, before FUTA and Tennessee unemployment insurance.
Quick reference
- State income tax: No state income tax (eliminated Hall tax in 2021)
- State sales tax: 7% (plus 2.55% avg local)
- Median home value: $320,000
- Median household income: $67,631
- Effective property tax rate: 0.67%
- Avg auto insurance: $1,373/yr
Frequently Asked Questions
What payroll taxes do Tennessee employers pay?
Employer FICA match (7.65%), FUTA, state unemployment, and no state income tax withholding.
What is the employer FICA match?
Employers match 6.2% Social Security + 1.45% Medicare = 7.65% of wages.