I Asked ChatGPT How Much I’d Pay in Taxes If I Retired in Arizona

Core Insights - Retirement income taxation in Arizona varies based on income sources and residency, with specific exemptions for Social Security and military retirement pay [2][3] Arizona State Taxes - Arizona has a state income tax with a flat rate of 2.5%, but Social Security benefits and military retirement pay are exempt from this tax [6] - Private pensions, IRA and 401(k) withdrawals, and investment income are subject to state income tax, with retirees allowed to subtract up to $2,500 annually from certain pensions [6] - The state has a sales tax of 5.6%, with an average combined sales tax rate of 8.38%, which can be as high as 12% in some counties [6] - Property tax for homeowners is set at 0.45%, ranking as the fourth lowest in the U.S., and there is no state or inheritance tax in Arizona [6] Tax Breaks for Seniors - Seniors aged 65 and above can benefit from the Senior Property Valuation Protection Option, which can lower their overall tax bill by pausing the taxable value of their primary residence for up to three years [3][4] - To qualify for this option, retirees must have an income of no more than $45,264 (or $56,580 for multiple homeowners) averaged over the last three years [4] - Seniors in Maricopa County may also access the Elderly Assistance Fund, which reduces primary school district taxes [4] Property Tax Deferral - Arizona allows homeowners aged 70 and above to defer property tax payments for up to a year, provided their total annual taxable income is $10,000 or less [5]