Why it is not pulling net income, (social security), into box 14b

[BMcCalpin · Accepted solution]

Between 0% and 85% of your Social Security benefits are taxable.

The computation on how much is taxable depends on how much other income you have besides Social Security. For many retirees, this happens when they take a distribution from a retirement account.

If you don't have much "outside" income (other than SS), then it's possible that none of your Social Security benefits are taxable.

To do the computation yourself (it is somewhat involved), please go to the IRS Instructions for the 1040 and look for "Figuring your taxable benefits" on page 83. This worksheet is valid for most taxpayers (see the instructions for Social Security benefits starting on page 81).

Note: on form 1040, non-taxable SS benefits are shown on line 5a; taxable SS benefits are shown on line 5b.

[Edited 3/26/2020 9:45 am CDT - updated for 2019]