Idaho State Tax Guide

Idaho state tax: Overview

Idaho moved to a flat income tax rate this year. Social Security benefits aren't subject to Idaho state tax, but the state may tax other types of retirement income. Idaho has one of the lowest sales tax rates in the U.S. However, it is one of the few states that taxes groceries.

Alcohol and tobacco taxes are lower in Idaho than in many other states. Property taxes in the Gem State are also lower than those in much of the country.

[Data for this state tax guide was gathered from several sources including the U.S. Census Bureau, the state’s government website, the Sales Tax Handbook, and the Tax Foundation. Property taxes are cited as a rate percentage rather than the assessed value.]

Idaho income tax

Idaho has a flat income tax rate of 5.8%, according to the Tax Foundation.

Idaho tax on retirement benefits: Social Security benefits and Railroad Retirement benefits are not taxed by the state.

If age 65 or older (62 or older if you have a disability), you may be able to deduct all or part of distributions from the following retirement plans.

Military Retirement
Civil Service Retirement (eligibility is dependent on account number)
Idaho Firemen's Retirement Fund
Policemen's Retirement Fund of Idaho City

Idaho sales tax

Idaho's state sales tax rate is 6%. Localities (typically resort communities) can add as much as 3%, but the average combined rate is just 6.03%, according to the Tax Foundation.

Groceries: Taxable
Clothing: Taxable
Prescription drugs: Taxable

How much are property taxes in Idaho?

In Idaho, the average effective property tax rate is 0.47%.

Source: Tax Foundation

Idaho Property Tax Breaks for Retirees

Property Tax Reduction: For 2024, some Idaho residents may qualify for a property tax reduction of up to $1,500. To qualify, homeowners must meet the following criteria.

Be 65 or older (see below for exceptions)
Had a income at a certain threshold or less after deducting medical expenses
You must have lived at the property before April 15, 2024
The property must be your primary residence
You must have a current homestead exemption

Some individuals under age 65 may qualify for the property tax reduction. These include people who are blind, widowed, or have a disability. Additionally, you may qualify if you were ever a POW or hostage. Children under 18 without a mother or without a father may also qualify.