Can I have taxes withheld from Social Security?

Yes. You can specify when you file your claim for Social Security benefits that you want federal income taxes withheld from the payments.

If you’re already receiving benefits and later decide to start withholding, you can make the change online using your My Social Security account. If you don't have an account, call the Social Security Administration’s customer service number (800-772-1213) to request withholding or fill out IRS Form W-4V and mail it to your local Social Security office. 

You’ll have the option of diverting 7 percent, 10 percent, 12 percent or 22 percent of your monthly benefits toward your income tax bill. You can also use any of the methods noted above to change your withholding rate or stop the withholding.

Keep in mind

• Your Social Security benefits are federally taxable only if your overall income exceeds $25,000 for an individual or $32,000 for a married couple filing jointly. If the income you report is above that threshold, you could pay taxes on up to 85 percent of your benefits.
• For the 2025 tax year, nine states — Colorado, Connecticut, Minnesota, Montana, New Mexico, Rhode Island, Utah, Vermont and West Virginia — also tax Social Security income for some recipients. Withholding does not address any state taxes you may owe on your benefits.