Federal tax is only part of the bill in retirement. States differ widely on Social Security, pensions, 401(k) and IRA withdrawals, and property and sales taxes. This guide explains the main approaches, how to compare states fairly, and what to check before moving.
Up to 85 percent of Social Security benefits can be subject to federal income tax, depending on your other income. This explainer walks through provisional income, the two thresholds, why a few extra dollars of withdrawals can pull more benefits into tax, and what withholding and planning options exist.
Retirees with taxable, tax-deferred and Roth accounts must decide which to draw from first. The conventional order is simple, but taxes, required minimum distributions and Medicare premiums can make a blended approach work better. This guide explains the trade-offs and the questions that shape the answer.