How do I figure taxable income in retirement when my income is made up from pensions, 401k withdrawals and social security living in California?

[frankiett]

Is all of social security taxed?

[Opus 17 · Accepted solution]

Is this a trick question?  You figure out your taxable income by filing a tax return.

Regarding social security, up to 85% of your social security benefit may be taxable on your federal return, depending on your total taxable income and filing status.  See here.

https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/dont-forget-social-security-benefits-may-be-taxable

https://www.irs.gov/help/ita/are-my-social-security-or-railroad-retirement-tier-i-benefits-taxable

California does not include your social security benefits in the calculation of state income tax. 

[Vanessa A · Accepted solution]

No, all of your social security is not taxed.  However, depending on your situation, up to 85% of it is taxed.  

If you fall into the following, 85% of your social security is taxable income

• Single with income above $34,000
• Married Filing Jointly with income above $44,000
• Married Filing Separate regardless of income

If you fall into the following, 50% of your social security is taxable income

• Single with combined income between $25,000-$34,000
• Married Filing Jointly with combined income between $32,000 and $44,000

Your combined income is calculated by adding your

• AGI plus
• Nontaxable Interest plus
• 1/2 of your social security Benefits

Social Security Benefits Taxes