Maryland Tax Elimination Act

Maryland Tax Elimination Act

The Maryland Retirement Tax Elimination Act of 2022, which faced significant barriers, was signed into law by Governor Larry Hogan and contained tax relief, offering the largest tax cut package for Maryland’s retirees.

This new state income tax credit is available to individuals aged 65 and over who receive pension income or income from a qualified retirement plan, such as a 401(k), IRA, or defined benefit plan. Governor Hogan hopes this act will help Maryland become more tax-friendly for retirees, particularly seniors, offering substantial relief.

In this post, we’ll explore the tax relief measures for this credit and how you can take advantage of them.

Qualifications for the Maryland Tax Elimination Act

Qualification is determined using your Federal Adjusted Gross Income, and is designed to help alleviate the tax burden on retired individuals, particularly during these uncertain times.

Starting in 2022, to qualify, Taxpayers 65+ must have Federal Adjusted Gross Income less than:

• $100,000 – Single / Married Filing Separate
• $150,000 – Married Filing Jointly, Qualified Survivor, Head of Household

How Does The Act Work

The savings will come from a nonrefundable tax credit against your state income taxes. A nonrefundable tax credit reduces your tax liability, but they cannot be used to generate a tax refund if the credit exceeds the amount of taxes owed.

The credit amount is $1,000 for an individual filer or a couple with only one spouse aged 65 or older. For joint filers both 65 or older, the credit amount is $1,750.

However, it’s important to understand this credit amount may be reduced if the ‘September General Fund Estimate’ for the fiscal year is more than 7.5% below the ‘March General Fund Estimate’ for the current fiscal year.

In addition to this new tax credit, Maryland residents benefit from other tax relief opportunities.

Maryland Pension Exclusion for 2024

Maryland currently taxes retirement income, including pension income, at the same rates as other types of income. Maryland’s progressive income tax rates range from 2% to 5.75%.

It’s important to note that all Maryland Counties (and Baltimore City) levy a local income tax that ranges from 2.25% to 3.20%.

However, Maryland offers a pension exclusion for certain types of retirement income, including qualified defined benefit and defined contribution pension plans, 401(a) plans, 401(k) plans, 403(b) plans, and 457(b) plans.

It’s important to note that Traditional IRAs, Roth IRAs, simplified employee plans (SEP), Keogh Plans, or ineligible deferred compensation plans do not qualify for the pension exclusion.

In 2024, the exclusion amount is $39,500. And who qualifies for this exclusion? Those 65 and older, or those who are fully disabled (or have a disabled spouse) can qualify for this pension exclusion.

However, Maryland’s pension exclusion does consider untaxed Social Security benefits, and the pension exclusion can be reduced or eliminated. This pension exclusion is separate from the new state income tax credit explained in this article.

Does Maryland Tax Social Security?

Do you pay taxes on Social Security in Maryland? Social Security income is not taxed at the state level – you do not have to pay Maryland state taxes on those benefits.

In general, Social Security benefits are not subject to federal income tax. However, if you have other sources of income, such as wages or investment income, your benefits may be partially taxable. Retirees must also monitor Medicare IRMAA surcharges at the federal level.

In Summary

The Maryland Income Tax cut package isn’t just another line item in a financial news bulletin—it’s an unprecedented opportunity. This tax relief could significantly enhance the financial well-being of retirees across the state.

Navigating this new landscape requires specialized knowledge. Your income, dividends, and capital gains have a nuanced relationship with these new tax credits. It’s not just about understanding the law; it’s about leveraging it to your advantage, which is where our expertise comes into play.

Long-term financial well-being comes from a commitment to informed decisions. This tax cut package could be an integral part of your long-term financial strategy, but only if you’re armed with the right information.

Building strong financial futures is a collaborative endeavor. A qualified financial advisor can provide personalized, likable guidance tailored to your specific needs and situation.

Lastly, time-sensitive opportunities like this come with their own sense of urgency. Qualified advisors with this specialized focus are in high demand, especially now.

So don’t miss out. We encourage you to consult with us to guide you through this complex but potentially rewarding tax landscape. Your financial future is too important to leave to chance.