How to apply for Arkansas income tax: $6,000 retirement income exemption and Social Security exemption

Who it's for

Arkansas does not tax Social Security benefits, VA benefits, or Railroad Retirement benefits. If you get money from a work-related pension or retirement plan, including disability retirement, the first $6,000 a year is not taxed. Traditional IRA withdrawals taken after age 59 and a half also count toward the same $6,000 exemption. Each spouse with retirement income gets a separate $6,000. Military retirement pay is not taxed. If you are 65 or older and do not claim the retirement exemption, you can claim an extra $29 tax credit instead (the "65 Special" box). You claim these on your Arkansas income tax return (Form AR1000F). For help, call the DFA Individual Income Tax Hotline at 1-501-682-1100 or toll-free 1-800-882-9275.

What you'll need

• Form 1099-R for each pension or IRA payment (attach it to your return)
• Arkansas Form AR1000F (full-year resident return)

Where to apply

What to say when you call

"Hello, I'm calling to ask about Arkansas income tax: $6,000 retirement income exemption and Social Security exemption. I'd like to know whether I may qualify, what documents I need, and whether I can apply online, by mail, by phone, or in person. I understand I may need form 1099-R for each pension or IRA payment (attach it to your return), arkansas Form AR1000F (full-year resident return) — is anything else required? What is the best next step?"

Tip: have a pen ready, ask for the person's name, and write down any case or reference number they give you.

Renewals

annual (claim on each year's tax return)