KANSAS
Return to Retiree Tax Map
NICKNAME
The Sunflower State
BOTTOM LINE: MIXED TAX PICTURE
Kansas excludes Social Security benefits from state income taxes for residents with a federal adjusted gross income of $75,000 or less. Military, civil-service and in-state public pensions are exempt from state income taxes, but out-of-state pensions are fully taxed. The top income tax bracket is 6.45% for income in excess of $30,000. Taxable property is assessed at its fair market value, and property-tax refunds are available to low-income seniors.
STATE SALES TAX
6.3% (prescription drugs are exempt). Cities and counties may add another 4%.
INCOME-TAX RANGE
Low: In 2012, 3.5% (on less than $15,000 of taxable income). In 2013, 3.0% (on less than $15,000 of taxable income).
High: In 2012, 6.45% (on more than $30,000 of taxable income). In 2013, 4.9% (on more than $15,000 of taxable income).
SOCIAL SECURITY
Social Security benefits are exempt from Kansas income tax for residents with a federal adjusted gross income of $75,000 or less.
EXEMPTIONS FOR OTHER RETIREMENT INCOME
Railroad Retirement benefits are fully exempt. Military, civil-service and Kansas state and local government pensions are exempt. Out-of-state government pensions are fully taxed.
PROPERTY TAXES
Taxable property is assessed at its fair market value.
Tax breaks for seniors: Homeowners 55 and older who earn $31,200 or less (note: 50% of Social Security benefits can be excluded from income for the purposes of qualifying for the program) are eligible for a refund of up to $700 under the Homestead Property Tax Refund Act. You must also meet one of the following requirements: be 55 or older, be blind or disabled, or have a dependent child under 18 who lived with you all year whom you claim as a personal exemption.
A Safe Senior property-tax refund is available for homeowners 65 or older with household income of $17,700 or less. The refund is 75% of the property taxes paid. Those who claim this refund cannot claim a Homestead refund.
INHERITANCE AND ESTATE TAXES
There is neither an estate tax nor an inheritance tax in Kansas.
Visit RetirementLiving.com for a complete rundown of taxes in Kansas.
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