Ask an Accountant

Social Security is confusing for most people, so join the club! As a general rule, this is how it get’s taxed for Single Filers, Head of Household, and Married Filing Separate:

• ‍0% is taxed if your total income is less than $25,000 ($32,000 for Married Filing Joint).
• ‍50% if your total income is between $25,000 and $34,000 ($32,000-$44,000 for MFJ)
• ‍85% if your income exceeds $34,000 ($44,000 for MFJ).

Your total income includes all of your income plus 1/2 of your Social Security benefits.

For example, if your 1099 income is $12,000 and your Social Security income is $16,000, your “total income” would be $20,000, and 0% of your Social Security would be taxed.

The best way to avoid having your Social Security taxed for 1099 workers is to utilize as many business write-offs as possible so your income stays low.