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Do seniors on social security have to file tax returns? It depends on your total income

According to the Social Security Administration, over 40% of people who receive Social Security benefits pay income tax on them. Whether or not seniors on social security have to file tax returns depends on their total income, filing status, and a calculation of their "combined income". Filing is not mandatory for everyone, but many retirees find a portion of their benefits is, in fact, taxable.