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9 States That Still Tax Social Security – and One Dropping the Tax in 2026

February 8, 2026 · Personal Finance
Close-up of hands using a calculator on a wooden table with soft sunlight.
Weathered hands use a calculator on a rustic wooden table to navigate the complexities of the federal combined income formula.

Federal Taxes: The “Combined Income” Formula

Even if you live in a tax-free state like Florida or Texas, Uncle Sam might still want a cut. It is crucial to remember that federal taxation of Social Security affects retirees nationwide.

The IRS uses a metric called “Combined Income” to decide if your benefits are taxable.

“Combined Income = Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) + Nontaxable Interest + 1/2 of your Social Security Benefits”

Federal Thresholds (2025):

  • Individual:
    • $25,000 – $34,000: Up to 50% of benefits may be taxable.
    • Over $34,000: Up to 85% of benefits may be taxable.
  • Married Filing Jointly:
    • $32,000 – $44,000: Up to 50% of benefits may be taxable.
    • Over $44,000: Up to 85% of benefits may be taxable.

Note: “Taxable” doesn’t mean the IRS takes 85% of your check. It means 85% of the benefit amount is added to your income and taxed at your regular rate.

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3 comments on “9 States That Still Tax Social Security – and One Dropping the Tax in 2026”

  1. walt ray says:
    February 26, 2026 at 1:31 pm

    Looks like age discrimination to me.

    Reply
  2. Marinela says:
    February 26, 2026 at 1:17 am

    Florida?

    Reply
  3. Jim Munro says:
    February 14, 2026 at 2:28 pm

    Pennsylvania?

    Reply
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