US Government May Tax 85% of Social Security Benefits
The United States government may tax up to 85% of Social Security benefits for seniors exceeding specific provisional income thresholds in 2026 and 2027.
The Federal government of the United States may tax up to 85% of Social Security benefits depending on a recipient's marital status and provisional income. For the 2026 and 2027 periods, the maximum taxable rate applies to single filers with provisional income over $34,000 and married filers exceeding $44,000.
Because these income thresholds are not indexed for inflation, a 3.6% cost-of-living adjustment for 2027 is expected to increase the number of seniors who owe taxes on their benefits. This lack of indexing means that nominal increases in benefit payments can push more recipients over the taxable income limits.
To help beneficiaries manage these obligations, the Social Security Administration allows recipients to request upfront tax withholding from their monthly paychecks. This measure is intended to prevent seniors from facing large, unexpected tax bills at the end of the year.
