Tax-Exempt Interest
Definition of 'Tax-Exempt Interest'Interest income that is not subject to federal income tax. Tax-exempt interest can be somewhat of a misnomer as it may still be taxed at the state or local levels. It may also be subject to the alternative minimum tax. Furthermore, capital gains on tax-exempt investments are still taxable; only the interest on these investments is tax-exempt. Tax-exempt interest is reported to both taxpayers and the IRS on form 1099-INT. Taxpayers, in turn, must report this tax-exempt interest on form 1040. |
|
Investopedia explains 'Tax-Exempt Interest'The most common way for interest to be tax-exempt at the state and local levels in addition to the federal level is for an investor to purchase a municipal bond issued in his or her state or locality of residence. Municipal bonds are one of the most common types of investments that pay tax-exempt interest, but interest may only be tax-exempt at the federal level if, for example, a California resident buys a New York municipal bond. These tax laws, however, vary by state. Treasury securities issued by the U.S. government pay interest that is tax exempt at the state and local levels, but not the federal level. |
Related Definitions
Articles Of Interest
-
Avoid The Social Security Tax Trap
Government benefits can cost you big money! Know the income thresholds before you file. -
Get A Short-Term Advantage In The Money Market
This investment vehicle is often the perfect stop-gap measure for growing your money. -
The Bear On Bonds
Bond investing is a stable and low-risk way to diversify a portfolio. However, knowing which types of bonds are right for you is not always easy. -
What Determines Your Cost Basis?
In any transaction between a buyer and seller, the initial price paid in an exchange for a product or service will qualify as the cost basis. When it comes to securities and related financial ... -
Canadians: Smart Ways To Use Your Tax Refund
Taxes are an annoying annual chore akin to going to the dentist. Luckily, however, some of us get a nice tax refund after the process. It's important to use this refund wisely though, and Canadians ... -
Know Your Stock Cost Basis
Understanding equity cost basis is critical for tracking the gains or losses of an investment. -
Has Income Tax Become A Class Tax On The Poor?
With more than 33% of American families falling close to the poverty line despite their adult members holding full-time employment, a rising number of citizens are being forced to pay a rate ... -
Possible Effects Of The Online Retail Tax
The U.S. Senate has passed a bill that will impose a sales tax on online retailers. Discover how the Marketplace Fairness Act could affect your bottom line. -
Why Your Pension Plan Has Sovereign Debt In It
One type of security pensions tend to invest in is sovereign debt, or debt issued by a government. -
How To Get The Most Out Of Hiring An Accountant
When you hire an accountant, getting good tax advice going forward is as valuable as – or perhaps even more valuable than - getting the previous year’s taxes filed correctly. Learn what you need ...
Free Annual Reports