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Kiplinger
Kiplinger
Business
Kelley R. Taylor

Taxes on Social Security Benefits: 6 Things to Know for 2026

Five Social Security cards pinnned on a clothesline against a blue sky.

Social Security is a vital source of income for millions of people. However, when it comes to taxes on Social Security benefits, confusion and misinformation often come into play.

One common misperception is that Social Security benefits are entirely tax-free. However, it has been the rule for many years that some portion — in some cases, up to 85% — of your Social Security benefits can be taxable, depending on your income.

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