Is Social Security income taxable by the IRS? Here's what you might owe on your benefits

When it comes to tax season, there's barrage of mind-boggling forms and detailed calculations. It can feel like a herculean task to get your personal finances in order, especially if you're not quite sure of the rules.

If you receive Social Security benefits from the government, for example, that money is subject to taxes. The amount you have to pay varies based on income and whether you are filing a joint or individual return. 

To walk you through the process, here's a guide to the formula used by the Internal Revenue Service to determine just how much you'll owe on your benefits: 

Are Social Security benefits taxable?

Yes. The rules of the Internal Revenue Service dictate that many who receive Social Security benefits will have to pay an income tax on that money. 

The amount you pay is determined by a calculation that involves what the IRS calls "combined income." 

Combined income is: Your adjusted gross income plus nontaxable interest plus half of your Social Security benefits.

Up to 85% of your Social Security benefits are taxable if: 

• You file a federal tax return as an "individual" and your combined income is more than $34,000.
• You file a joint return, and you and your spouse have a combined income of more than $44,000.

Up to 50% of your Social Security benefits are taxable if: 

• You file a federal tax return as an "individual" and your combined income is between $25,000 and $34,000.
• You file a joint return, and you and your spouse have a combined income between $32,000 and $44,000.

SSA-1099 form: How to get it

To help you figure out how much you received in benefits over the course of the year, the Social Security Administration should send you a form in January.

This is your Social Security Benefit Statement, or SSA-1099, and can be used to figure out how much you owe when you are filing your federal tax return. 

For all those who receive benefits, the SSA-1099 should be mailed to you automatically. If you do not receive it, a printable version should be available online after you create a "my Social Security" account.

Contributing: Olivia Munson

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