Social Security benefits serve as a vital source of income for millions of retired and disabled individuals in the United States.  While these benefits are designed to provide financial security, it’s important to understand how they are taxed.  Let’s break down the basics of Social Security benefit taxation, including when and how it occurs, ensuring you have a clearer picture of how this impacts your overall retirement income.

When Social Security Benefits are Taxed:  Not all recipients of Social Security benefits are required to pay taxes on their benefits.  The taxability of these benefits is determined by a combination of your income and fling status.  The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) uses a formula known as “provisional income” to calculate whether your benefits are subject to taxation.  Provisional income is calculated by adding up your adjusted gross income (AGI), non-taxable interest, and half of your Social Security benefits.

Based on this provisional income, the IRS established certain income thresholds to determine whether your benefits are taxable.  These thresholds are as follows for the tax year 2023:

1)      Single filers:

·         If your provisional income is below $25,000, your benefits are generally not taxable.

·         If your provisional income falls between $25,000 and $34,000, up to 50% of your benefits may be subject to taxation.

·         If your provisional income exceeds $34,000, up to 85% of your benefits may be taxable.

2)      Married couples filing jointly:

·         If your provisional income is below $32,000, your benefits are generally not taxable.

·         If your provisional income falls between $32,000 and $44,000, up to 50% of your benefits may be subject to taxation.

·         If your provisional income exceeds $44,000, up to 85% of your benefits may be taxable.

It’s important to note that these income thresholds may change over time due to inflation or adjustments in tax regulations, so it’s always wise to consult the latest information provided by the IRS. In addition, social security benefits may be subject to a reduction of benefits if receiving benefits while still working prior to you full retirement age.  This topic will be covered in a later article.

How Social Security Benefits Are Taxes:  If a portion of our Social Security benefits is subject to taxation, the IRS uses a multi-tiered system to determine the specific tax liability.  The taxable portion can be added to your other sources of income to determine your overall tax bracket.  However, it’s crucial to understand that the maximum taxable amount of Social Security benefits is limited to 85% of the total benefit amount.  In other words, even if you fall into the higher tax bracket, you will not pay taxes on more than 85% of your Social Security benefits.

Reporting and Paying Taxes:  To account for the taxation of Social Security benefits, you are required to report the taxable portion of your benefits on your federal income tax return.  This is done using IRS Form 1040 or 1040A.  If you receive a Form SSA-1099 (Social Security Benefit Statement) from the Social Security Administration, it will provide you with the necessary information to determine the taxable portion of your benefits.

If you anticipate owing taxes on your Social Security benefits, you have the option to make quarterly estimated tax payments or have taxes withheld from other sources of income, such as pensions or retirement account distributions.  To have taxes withheld from your Social Security benefits themselves, you can complete IRS Form W-4V.

Understanding the taxation of Social Security benefits is essential for retirees and those nearing retirement age.  By grasping the basic principles outlined in this article, you can better navigate the complex tax rules surrounding these benefits.  Remember, not all Social Security income is taxed, and the taxability depends on your provisional income.  Consult with a tax professional to determine the specific tax implications based on your personal circumstances.  Stay informed, plan ahead, and make the most of your Social Security benefits.

The tax and legal references attached herein are designed to provide accurate information with regard to the subject matter covered and are provided with the understanding that Rose Street Advisors is not engaged in rendering tax, legal, or actuarial services.  If tax, legal or actuarial advice is required, you should consult your accountant, attorney, or actuary.  Rose Street Advisors does not replace those advisors.