Ask Larry

Will The Back Pay I Just Received Be Taxed For 2021?

I just received retroactive Social Security benefits as of Jan 2023
Will this be taxed for 2021?

Hi. No. Social Security benefits are taxable for the year in which they are paid, not the year for which the benefits were payable. So, any benefits you receive in 2023 would be reported on your 2023 tax return, regardless of what year the benefits were actually due.

Best, Jerry

Posted: 
Jan 10 2023 - 2:43pm
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