Memphis Standard

U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn of Tennessee and Roger Marshall of Kansas have introduced the RETIREES FIRST Act, a legislative proposal aimed at reducing the tax burden on Social Security benefits for seniors. The bill seeks to address concerns over the impact of inflation and taxation on retirees' financial well-being.

Senator Blackburn emphasized the importance of Social Security for retirees, especially in light of recent inflationary pressures. "Retirees across the country depend on Social Security, especially after enduring the record-high inflation of the last four years," she stated. "This bill would cut taxes on seniors’ benefits, helping them keep more of their hard-earned money."

Senator Marshall highlighted former President Trump's commitment to protecting Social Security and providing relief to senior citizens by reducing taxes on these benefits. He said, "President Trump promised to protect Social Security and deliver relief to senior citizens by cutting taxes on these benefits. This simple action will put more money in seniors' pockets, correct a fundamental flaw in our tax system, and support President Trump’s economic agenda and a promise made to the American people: No Tax on Social Security."

The RETIREES FIRST Act proposes several changes:

- Raising provisional income thresholds to $34,000 for single filers and $68,000 for married filers, which would exempt most middle-class retirees from paying taxes on their Social Security benefits.

- Updating exemption thresholds annually to prevent bracket creep due to inflation.

- Simplifying tax rules with a single 85% inclusion rate for benefits exceeding new thresholds.

- Eliminating the marriage penalty currently affecting married retirees who both receive benefits.

- Protecting long-term solvency by redirecting funds from inefficient government spending.

Historically, Social Security benefits were not subject to federal income tax until legislation passed in 1983 taxed higher-income retirees' benefits as a measure for program solvency. However, unchanged exemption thresholds since then have led many middle-income retirees into taxable brackets over time.

Today, nearly 56% of retirees pay taxes on their Social Security benefits compared to less than 10% in 1984—a number expected to increase further without intervention.

The proposed act aims not only at alleviating immediate financial pressures but also ensuring that exemptions remain aligned with rising costs while simplifying tax processes for seniors.