Why is my social security taxable income so high?

[Fern · Accepted solution]

Your Social Security Wages can be higher than your wages if you have any pre-tax deductions taken out of your pay. Pre-tax deductions can include 401K contributions, health insurance premiums, FSA contributions, etc.

You do not pay income tax on pre-tax deductions, but you are still required to pay social security on these items.

[bmacomber]

Why are my 17yo sons social security wages so high when he does not contribute to 401 or anything at all?

[VolvoGirl]

Is box 3 more than box 1?   Ask the employer why.   There can be many reasons.   Maybe they take out health  insurance?  I never can match my husbands W2 to his paychecks.  There are many deductions that can affect it.