Rocky Mengle
Navigating the complexities of state taxes can be daunting, but understanding Idaho's tax landscape is essential for residents and newcomers alike.
In this guide, we'll explore key components of The Gem State's tax system, from income and sales taxes to property taxes and retirement benefits.
Idaho state tax: Overview
When it comes to sales tax, Idaho keeps things relatively low compared to the rest of the country. The state recently switched to a flat income tax rate and doesn't tax Social Security.
From just $107.88 $24.99 for Kiplinger Personal Finance
Become a smarter, better informed investor. Subscribe from just $107.88 $24.99, plus get up to 4 Special Issues
Sign up for Kiplinger’s Free Newsletters
Profit and prosper with the best of expert advice on investing, taxes, retirement, personal finance and more - straight to your e-mail.
Profit and prosper with the best of expert advice - straight to your e-mail.
But Idaho is one of the few states that still taxes groceries.
Still, alcohol and tobacco taxes are lower than what you’ll find in many other states, and property taxes in the Gem State are also well below the national average.
In the news: Idaho parents with children enrolled in a private or homeschool may be eligible for a new refundable tax credit.
For more information, see Idaho Tax Credit Subsidizing Private School is Law: What You Need to Know.
[Data for this state tax guide was gathered from several sources including the U.S. Census Bureau, the state’s government website, the Sales Tax Handbook, and the Tax Foundation. Property taxes are cited as a rate percentage rather than the assessed value.]
Idaho income tax
Idaho has a flat income tax rate of 5.8%, according to the Tax Foundation.
Idaho retirement taxes
Idaho taxes most types of retirement income and has a flat tax rate. However, there are no estate or inheritance taxes in Idaho.
- Social Security: Not taxable
- Pensions: Partially taxable (Some military and government pensions might qualify for an exemption)
- 401(k) and IRA Distributions: Taxable
Idaho tax on retirement benefits: Social Security benefits and Railroad Retirement benefits are not taxed by the state.
If age 65 or older (62 or older if you have a disability), you may be able to deduct all or part of distributions from the following retirement plans.
- Military Retirement
- Civil Service Retirement (eligibility is dependent on account number)
- Idaho Firemen's Retirement Fund
- Policemen's Retirement Fund of Idaho City
Idaho sales tax
Idaho's state sales tax rate is 6%. Localities (typically resort communities) can add as much as 3%, but the average combined rate is just 6.03%, according to the Tax Foundation.
- Groceries: Taxable
- Clothing: Taxable
- Prescription drugs: Exempt
How much are property taxes in Idaho?
In Idaho, the average effective property tax rate is 0.47%.
Source: Tax Foundation
Idaho Property Tax Breaks for Retirees
Property Tax Reduction: For 2025, some Idaho residents may qualify for a property tax reduction of up to $1,500. To qualify, homeowners must meet the following criteria.
- Be 65 or older (see below for exceptions)
- Had a income at a certain threshold or less after deducting medical expenses
- You must have lived at the property before April 15, 2025
- The property must be your primary residence
- You must have a current homestead exemption
Some individuals under age 65 may qualify for the property tax reduction. These include people who are blind, widowed, or have a disability. Additionally, you may qualify if you were ever a POW or hostage. Children under 18 without a mother or without a father may also qualify.
Idaho gas tax
Gasoline: $0.32 per gallon.
Diesel: $0.32 per gallon.
Source: Sales Tax Handbook
Idaho alcohol and tobacco taxes
Product | Tax Amount |
|---|---|
Cigarettes | $0.57 per pack |
Other Tobacco Products | 40% of wholesale price |
Source: Sales Tax Handbook
Product | Tax Amount |
|---|---|
Wine | $0.45 per gallon |
Beer | $0.15 per gallon |
Liquor | state-controlled |
Source: Sales Tax Handbook
Idaho estate and inheritance taxes
Idaho is one of the states with no estate or inheritance taxes.
Related
-
December Fed Meeting: Live Updates and CommentaryThe December Fed meeting is one of the last key economic events of 2025, with Wall Street closely watching what Chair Powell & Co. will do about interest rates.
-
This Is Why Investors Shouldn't Romanticize BitcoinInvestors should treat bitcoin as the high-risk asset it is. A look at the data indicates a small portfolio allocation for most investors would be the safest.
-
I'm a Federal Benefits Pro: I Answer These 2 Questions a LotMany federal employees ask about rolling a TSP into an IRA and parsing options for survivor benefits, both especially critical topics.
-
Are You Middle-Class? Here's the Most Tax-Friendly State for Your FamilyTax Tips We found the state with no income tax, low property tax bills, and exemptions on groceries and medicine.
-
Social Security Benefits Quiz : Do You Know the IRS Tax Rules?Quiz Social Security benefits often come with confusing IRS tax rules that can trip up financially savvy retirees and near-retirees.
-
How Are I Bonds Taxed? 8 Common Situations to KnowBonds Series I U.S. savings bonds are a popular investment, but the federal income tax consequences are anything but straightforward.
-
New 2026 Tax Change Could Mean More for Your IRA and 401(k) SavingsRetirement Savings Here's how the new IRS inflation adjustments will increase the contribution limits for your 401(k) and IRA in the new year.
-
Capital Gains Tax Quiz: How Well Do You Really Know IRS Investment Tax Rules?Quiz Take our capital gains tax quiz to test your investment taxes knowledge. Learn about loss rules, holding periods, and tax incentives that could impact your savings.
-
6 Tax Reasons to Convert Your IRA to a Roth (and When You Shouldn't)Retirement Taxes Here’s how converting your traditional retirement account to a Roth IRA can boost your nest egg — but avoid these costly scenarios.
-
Could Tax Savings Make a 50-Year Mortgage Worth It?Buying a Home The 50-year mortgage proposal by Trump aims to address the housing affordability crisis with lower monthly mortgage payments. But what does that mean for your taxes?
-
3 Ways High-Income Earners Can Maximize Their Charitable Donations in 2025Tax Deductions New charitable giving tax rules will soon lower your deduction for donations to charity — here’s what you should do now.
