Retirement Planning

These States Don't Tax Retirement Income - Where Should You Live?

These States Don't Tax Retirement Income - Where Should You Live?

It’s not uncommon for people to decide to move in their retirement years. Whether it’s for financial reasons, to reside closer to adult children and young grandchildren, or simply to embark on a great adventure, relocation is common for retirees.

If you’ve worked hard all your life and you’re interested in spending your golden years somewhere you can maximize your retirement income, you’re in the right place. This guide will teach you more about the U.S. states that don’t tax retirement income.

And, who knows, maybe you’ll get lucky and discover you already live in a favorable retirement location – no moving trucks required! 

Understanding retirement income

Before we dive in, it’s important to understand exactly what retirement income is. Most people receive income from Social Security benefits, pension payments, and distributions from IRA – both Roth and traditional – and 401(k) accounts.

It is worth noting that federal income taxes on both Roth IRA and Roth 401(k) plans are paid before any contributions – if you are age 59 ½ or over, these contributions and investment gains can be withdrawn free of federal income taxes after five years.

States without income taxes

The following eight states do not have any state income taxes, which means that retirement income is also free from taxation. 

Alaska

Known as “The Last Frontier,” Alaska offers numerous benefits for retirees, including the opportunity to experience the great outdoors on a daily basis. It isn’t for the faint of heat in the winter months, though. 

Florida

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With its subtropical climate, great golf courses, amazing restaurants, and stunning beaches, Florida has a reputation for being an excellent place for retirees to spend their time (even if they only “Snow Bird”!) 

Nevada

Nevada offers year-round dry weather that is appealing to some retirees – not to mention that the state has everything from Las Vegas to Red Rocks, offering entertainment for every type of person. 

South Dakota 

South Dakota is home to hard-working people and wide open spaces, making it an ideal place for those who have always dreamed of living like a cowboy. The state also has a low cost of living compared to other locations in the United States.

Tennessee

Tennessee is another state where retirees can take advantage of a wide range of activities, from city life in Nashville to the mountains of Gatlinburg and Sevierville in East Tennessee. 

The state also offers other tax benefits from time to time, like a ban on grocery taxes to combat inflation in August 2022.

Texas

As the old tourism advertisements said, Texas may be “like a whole other country” – but it’s also one of the most favorable states for retirees in the entire USA. If you’re looking for a place that offers a culture all its own, the “Lone Star State” just might be the spot for you.

Washington

Washington State offers stunning Pacific Northwest scenery, plus the perks of a big city like Seattle. Whether you’re a coffee lover, a hiker, or just a fan of Sleepless In Seattle, Washington offers some major perks. 

The downside? It can be pricey even with low taxes for retirees.

Wyoming

Much like South Dakota, if you’ve ever wanted to live out your cowboy (or cowgirl!) dreams in your retirement, “Big Sky Country” affords the perfect opportunity. According to Retired and Moving, the state is actually the number one place to retire to in the United States!

States with favorable retirement income taxes 

As a Yahoo! Finance article noted, it’s possible to save on taxes in your retirement without relocating to a state that doesn’t have income tax. In fact, “most states specifically exclude Social Security benefits from taxation. Some others also exempt retirement account distributions and pensions. Most have a mix of approaches to taxing retirement income.”

Pennsylvania, for example, doesn’t tax Social Security benefits or IRA and 401(k) income. Furthermore, the Keystone State does not levy income tax on pension payments for retirees over age 60. 

Another New England state, New Hampshire, has a 5% tax on dividends and interest – but it will be phased out by January 2027. Until that point, the tax rate on dividend and interest income it set to decline each year until it reaches zero.

The best way to understand your retirement taxes is to speak to a qualified tax professional or CPA in your area. This is especially important if you plan to work in the gig economy or start any type of business as a retiree. 

However, this information can help you begin to consider your options as you approach your retirement years, or as you plan to make major changes now that you’ve already retired.

Do you ever think about moving when you retire?

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Steward Financial

Steward Financial

Jon Osborn is a tax preparer based in San Dimas, California. His company, Steward Financial Services, offers a broad range of tax preparation, accounting and business consulting for small businesses. He loves to work with clients who are looking for answers to complex tax and business planning issues. He has owned several small businesses and worked with over one hundred small business owners. He helps his individual and business tax clients find the best ways to spend their money in order to minimize IRS tax. Small businesses looking to grow, sell or just increase cash flow are one of Jon's specialties.

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