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Level 2
February 3, 2023
Question

How do state tax brackets work when moving.

  • February 3, 2023
  • 1 reply
  • 11 views

I have 1099 income. I lived in PA first 6 months of year... I made 100k. Then I moved to NJ and made 50k. Does the first 100k I make in PA count towards determining my marginal tax rate/bracket in NJ? Or is the counter reset when I move to NJ?

    1 reply

    Level 15
    February 3, 2023

    Yes. The first $100k does count towards determining your marginal tax rate/bracket in New Jersey.

     

    Like most states, NJ will use your total income for your base tax rate, but you will only be taxed on $50k (but a higher rate than if you only earned $50k for the whole year).

     

    Suppose the tax on $150,000 is 10% or $15,000. Since you earned 33% ($50k/$150k) of your income in NJ, your tax would be 33% of $15,000, or $5,000.

     

    Pennsylvania has a flat tax so there is not upcharge.

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    Level 2
    February 3, 2023

    Let's change the scenario. Instead of PA, I live in CT and make first 100k there. Are you saying that my $150,000 will be taxed at the highest rate in both states?  I don't get a marginal tax rate for first 150k? 

     

    NJ will tax 50k at a flat 6.37%.

    CT will tax 100k at flat 6%.

     

     

    Level 15
    February 4, 2023

    Yes. Connecticut starts its state tax calculation with federal AGI, then makes state-specific additions and subtractions so you will pay the tax rate based on federal AGI +/- some minor adjustments for state law.

     

    The rule generally applies to any state without a flat tax rate.

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