How to Report Social Security on a Tax Return
Many taxpayers aren't aware that their Social Security benefits are taxable and often neglect to report the benefits on their income tax returns. Unfortunately, even though the tax rate on Social Security benefits is less than that of ordinary income, the IRS still requires that Social Security income be included on your tax return. Luckily, reporting Social Security income on your tax return is relatively easy as it differs very little from the reporting of any other type of income.
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Instructions
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Use your SSA-1099 to determine the amount you were paid in benefits for the tax year in which you are filing. You should receive your SSA-1099 in the mail on or before Jan. 31. If you did not receive an SSA-1099 in the mail or if you misplaced your SSA-1099, contact the Social Security Administration at 1-800-772-1213 to request a new copy. You can also visit your local Social Security walk-in office to request a copy of your SSA-1099. Be sure to bring your Social Security card and a second form of identification with you for security purposes. If you live outside of the United States, consult the Social Security Administration's International Operations web page.
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Input the total amount of Social Security benefits you received for the tax year on line 20a of your Form 1040 and line 14a of Form 1040A. You cannot use Form 1040EZ to claim your Social Security benefits. To determine the taxable portion of your Social Security benefits, refer to the worksheet included with IRS Publication 915, Social Security and Equivalent Railroad Retirement Benefits. Enter the taxable portion (if any) on line 20b of your Form 1040 and line 14b of Form 1040A. If you need help completing the worksheet, call the IRS at 1-800-829-1040 between the hours of 7 a.m. and 10 p.m.
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Complete the remainder of the return as you normally would and mail it to the IRS office that processes your return or submit it electronically. If you are unsure which IRS office processes returns for your area, refer to the irs.gov website. Be advised that mailed returns usually take about 6 to 8 weeks to process while electronically filed returns usually complete processing within 10 days.
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