Which states tax Social Security benefits? Check out our map and see what you may pay in 2026.

"Americans on Social Security could see new federal tax breaks in 2026 - and some states will stop taxing benefit income. The largest social safety net in the US provides monthly payments that help 74 million people afford essentials. Americans pay into the program during their working careers, which is also supplemented by the federal government. Beneficiaries' final tax bill depends on their state, annual income, and eligibility for deductions. Federal Social Security taxes Social Security income is typically taxed at the national level. Americans may pay taxes on up to 85% of their Social Security payments, depending on household income."

"And President Donald Trump's One Big Beautiful Bill Act will bring more tax relief to seniors. In the new year, taxpayers 65 and older can claim up to $6,000 in addition to their normal standard deduction. This builds on an existing tax deduction for older adults. The expanded breaks under Trump are set to last through 2028. This means that older Americans filing their 2025 tax returns can write off as much as $23,750, and joint filers over 65 could claim as much as $46,700."

"States are able to set their own Social Security tax rules alongside national requirements. Eight states taxed Social Security income this year, while 41 didn't. And, in 2026, West Virginia will stop taxing benefits. The amount beneficiaries will pay in state-level taxes varies widely depending on a local laws and household earnings."

Federal Social Security taxation can apply to up to 85% of benefits depending on household income; beneficiaries with less than $25,000 (individual) or $32,000 (couple) typically have no federal tax on benefits. Need-based Supplemental Social Security is not taxed. The One Big Beautiful Bill Act increases senior tax relief through 2028 by allowing taxpayers 65 and older an additional deduction up to $6,000, raising potential 2025 return deductions to as much as $23,750 for single filers and $46,700 for joint filers. States set their own rules; eight states taxed benefits this year and West Virginia will stop taxing benefits in 2026.

Read at Business Insider