Social Security Tax Calculator
Up to 85% of Social Security benefits can be taxable, depending on your other income. Enter your benefits and other income to estimate the taxable amount using the IRS Publication 915 worksheet.
Estimate your taxable benefits
Box 5 of Form SSA-1099.
IRA and pension withdrawals, wages, interest (including tax-exempt interest), and other income.
Enter your benefits to see an estimate.
How the calculator works
It adds half of your Social Security benefits to all your other income, including tax-exempt interest, to get your combined income. It then applies the Publication 915 worksheet: up to 50% of benefits can be taxable above the first threshold, and up to 85% above the second.
The thresholds
For single, head of household, qualifying surviving spouse, and married filing separately filers who lived apart all year, the thresholds are $25,000 and $34,000. For married filing jointly, they are $32,000 and $44,000. If you are married filing separately and lived with your spouse at any time during the year, up to 85% can be taxable from the first dollar. These amounts are not adjusted for inflation.
Why IRA withdrawals matter
Withdrawals from a traditional IRA or 401(k) count as other income, so a large withdrawal can make more of your benefits taxable. If you are considering a withdrawal to pay a tax bill, compare the cost with an IRS payment plan first.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much of my Social Security is taxable?
Between 0% and 85%, depending on your combined income: your other income plus half of your benefits.
What counts as combined income?
Your adjusted gross income plus tax-exempt interest plus half of your Social Security benefits.
Do the thresholds change each year?
No. The $25,000/$34,000 and $32,000/$44,000 thresholds are set by law and are not indexed for inflation.
Does California tax Social Security?
No. California does not tax Social Security benefits.
Can I have tax withheld from Social Security?
Yes. You can request voluntary federal withholding with Form W-4V.
Sources
This tool gives general estimates for education only and is not tax advice. Results depend on your facts and on IRS or state decisions. Calculus Tax, Inc. is not affiliated with the IRS or any government agency.