Starting in 2025, several states across the U.S. will make significant changes to their tax policies, particularly when it comes to Social Security benefits.
For seniors and retirees who rely on Social Security payments, this change offers a welcome relief: no more state income taxes on their benefits. If you’re a resident of one of these states, 2025 could mark the end of a taxing burden for many.
Here’s what you need to know about these state-level tax changes, which are set to provide financial relief to millions of Americans.
Why This Change Matters
Social Security benefits have long been subject to taxation in many states, even though the federal government doesn’t tax them fully (at least for most people). However, certain states have taxed Social Security income in various forms, meaning recipients were required to pay state taxes on the benefits they earned during their working years. With these new changes starting in 2025, these taxes will be entirely eliminated, giving retirees a little extra financial freedom.
For many, Social Security benefits are a critical source of income in retirement. The elimination of state taxes on these benefits will allow seniors to keep more of what they earn without seeing it reduced by taxes at the state level.
States Eliminating Social Security Taxes in 2025
As of now, several states have confirmed that they will stop taxing Social Security income starting in 2025. These include:
1. Connecticut
Connecticut is one of the first states to officially announce that it will stop taxing Social Security benefits by 2025. Previously, the state imposed a tax on Social Security income for high earners. However, with this change, all Social Security benefits will be completely exempt from state taxes.
2. Minnesota
Minnesota is also set to phase out the tax on Social Security benefits by 2025. The state has long taxed benefits, but after an agreement passed in 2023, Social Security income will be exempt for all seniors by the time 2025 rolls around. This will significantly help retirees who rely on Social Security as their primary source of income.
3. Nebraska
Nebraska has made moves toward eliminating the tax on Social Security income as part of broader tax reforms. By 2025, Social Security benefits will no longer be taxed, allowing many seniors to keep more of their income.
4. New Mexico
In New Mexico, recent legislation will eliminate the taxation of Social Security benefits starting in 2025. New Mexico had previously imposed a partial tax on Social Security income, but under the new plan, this tax will be fully repealed by 2025, helping many retirees who had been burdened by these state taxes.
5. Rhode Island
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Rhode Island also plans to phase out its tax on Social Security benefits by 2025. This change is part of a broader tax relief initiative aimed at making Rhode Island a more attractive place to live for retirees.
How Will This Benefit You?
The elimination of Social Security taxes will offer several benefits:
- Increased Disposable Income: Without the state tax deduction on Social Security benefits, retirees will see an increase in their net income, which can help cover daily expenses or be used for savings or investments.
- Encouragement for Retirees to Stay in State: This policy change may make these states more attractive for retirees to remain in, or even move to, as it reduces the financial burden of state income taxes on Social Security.
- Simplification for Taxpayers: With Social Security no longer taxed by the state, taxpayers won’t have to worry about filing additional paperwork or keeping track of tax deductions related to their benefits.
Which States Are Not Eliminating Social Security Taxes?
While some states are making positive changes, others still impose taxes on Social Security benefits. For example, states like California, Colorado, and Illinois continue to tax Social Security income, and there have been no announcements regarding changes in these states for 2025.
However, it’s important to keep in mind that tax laws are subject to change. Residents in states that currently tax Social Security benefits should keep an eye on any proposed legislation that could change the situation in the coming years.
Conclusion
If you’re a retiree or planning for retirement in 2025, this update brings good news for those in the states that are eliminating Social Security taxes. As more states recognize the financial strain placed on seniors, we may see even more states following suit with similar tax relief programs in the future.
For now, those in Connecticut, Minnesota, Nebraska, New Mexico, and Rhode Island can look forward to a tax-free future on their Social Security benefits starting in 2025.
Juniper Calloway is a dedicated journalist with 3 years of experience in covering hard-hitting stories. Known for her commitment to delivering timely and accurate updates, she currently works with MikeandJon Podcast, where she focuses on reporting critical topics such as crime, local news, and national developments across the United States. Her ability to break down complex issues and keep audiences informed has established her as a trusted voice in journalism.