Understanding how Social Security benefits are taxed
By Diane M. Wilson CFP® Understanding how Social Security benefits are taxed may enable retirees to keep more of their benefits. Social Security benefits are taxable if your “provisional income” is above a certain level. Your “provisional income,” is your adjusted gross income, plus ½ of your Social Security benefits, plus any nontaxable interest, plus income from foreign sources.
Your Social Security benefits are completely tax free If your provisional income is below $25,000 for singles and head of households, or less than $32,000 if married filing jointly.
Social Security benefits may be taxed up to 50% if your provisional income is between $25,000 and $34,000 for singles and head of household, or between $32,000 and $44,000 if married filing jointly.
There is a maximum amount of your benefits that can be taxable. Social Security benefits may be taxed up to 85% when provisional income passes $34,000, for singles and head of households, or more than $44,000 if married filing jointly. 15% of your benefits will not be taxed.
Taxable Income Ranges
Social Security Benefits Single/Head Of Household Married Filing Jointly
Tax Free < $25,000 < $32,000
Up to 50% taxed $25,000 – $32,000 $32,000 – $44,000
Up to 85% taxed > $32,000 > $44,000
Strategies are available to help retirees keep income below the cutoffs and keep taxes on your Social Security benefits low. Keeping taxes low in retirement requires planning. A clear understanding of the rules and how Social Security benefits are taxed is a must to make the best decisions for a successful retirement. Social Security may be the most important income stream a retiree may receive and keeping more of your benefits is a worthwhile goal. Professional assistance from a Social Security advisor should not be overlooked. The expenditure for professional advice may help you keep more of this very important benefit.