Are nursing shift differentials taxed at a higher rate?
No. Shift differentials simply increase your gross pay, which is taxed at the standard federal progressive rates and the flat 3.5% Kentucky rate.
Nurse hourly and overtime estimate
Kentucky Nurse Paycheck Calculator
Calculate take-home pay for RNs and LPNs in Kentucky, factoring in hourly rates, 12-hour shifts, overtime, and local taxes.
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Kentucky · 2026 tax year · salaried or hourly
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How are you paid?
Gross pay method
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Use flat 22% federal supplemental rate?
The IRS allows employers to withhold federal income tax from bonuses / supplemental wages at a flat 22% rate.
Required for accurate Social Security and Medicare surtax estimates mid-year.
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Key points
Nurses often work three 12-hour shifts (36 hours), meaning no standard overtime unless picking up extra shifts.
Shift differentials (extra pay for nights/weekends) are fully taxable.
Travel nurse stipends for housing and meals are often tax-free if you maintain a primary tax home outside the area.
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What to check
1Choose Hourly and enter your base nursing rate.
2Enter your regular hours and any overtime.
3Add shift differentials as Extra Earnings, and select your hospital's local jurisdiction.
Common questions
How are travel nurse stipends taxed in Kentucky?
If you qualify for tax-free stipends (by duplicating living expenses), do not enter them into the calculator as taxable gross pay. Only enter your taxable hourly wage.