# 8 States Tax Social Security, But Benefits May Still Be Taxed

> Your Social Security benefits could be taxed even if you live in a state that doesn't tax them.
- Title: 8 States Tax Social Security, But Benefits May Still Be Taxed
- Summary: Your Social Security benefits could be taxed even if you live in a state that doesn't tax them. Provisional income calculations determine federal taxes on…
- Keywords: social security, federal taxes, provisional income, social security benefits, tax exemptions, federal income tax, retirement planning, social security tax, States, Tax, Social, Security
- Source: 24/7 Wall St. — https://247wallst.com/personal-finance/2026/09/20/only-these-8-states-tax-social-security-but-your-benefits-might-still-taxed-anyway
- Author: Maurie Backman
- Published: 2026-09-21T01:24:36+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: social security, federal taxes, provisional income, social security benefits, tax exemptions, federal income tax, retirement planning, social security tax
## Which 8 states tax Social Security?
Colorado, Connecticut, Minnesota, Montana, New Mexico, Rhode Island, Utah, and Vermont tax Social Security benefits.
## You might still owe federal taxes
Even if you live in a state that doesn't tax Social Security, federal taxes apply based on your provisional income.
## Provisional income calculation
Your provisional income includes adjusted gross income, tax-exempt interest, and 50% of your Social Security benefits.
## Tax thresholds for single filers
If provisional income is between $25,000 and $34,000, up to 50% of Social Security benefits may be taxed.
## Tax thresholds for married filers
For married couples, provisional income between $32,000 and $44,000 may tax up to 50% of Social Security benefits.
## Tax rates are fixed
Above $34,000 for single filers and $44,000 for married couples, up to 85% of Social Security benefits could be taxed.
## Why this matters now
The tax thresholds haven't been adjusted for inflation in decades, potentially costing retirees more than expected.
## Key takeaway

Provisional income calculations determine federal taxes on Social Security, not state residency.