How is line 6b (taxable Social Security) on 1040SR (for seniors) computed?

[the-sprenkles]

line 6a is directly from the SSAA-1099. Where does 6b come from?

[VolvoGirl · Accepted solution]

It's complicated.  Up to 85% of Social Security becomes taxable when all your other income plus 1/2 your social security, reaches:

Married Filing Jointly: $32,000

Single or head of household: $25,000

Married Filing Separately: 0

To see the Social Security Benefits Calculation Worksheet  in Turbo Tax Online version you would have to save your return with all the worksheets to your computer.  Or if you are using the Desktop program you can switch to Forms Mode (click Forms in the upper right) and click on SS in the list on the left side.

[ANDYROBIN1981]

Thanks for the answer on the 85% for the deduction credit for my soc sec on OH Schedule A line 14.  It was perfect to help us understand our joint return for 2020.  For 2021, my wife is starting soc sec in 2021.  Will we BOTH be able to claim the full 85% deduction of our soc sec gross distributions?  Thanks!

[VolvoGirl]

I don't think you understood.  On a federal return up to 85% is taxed.  Since Social Security is not taxed on most state returns the taxable amount (from the federal 1040 6b) does get subtracted from the Fed AGI to start the state return.  So Yes the state will deduct any taxable SS amount.

[ANDYROBIN1981]

Thank you!