Maryland Governor Proposes Major Tax Cut for Retirees
Gov. Hogan hopes $1 billion in additional tax relief will make it more affordable for retirees to stay in Maryland.


Maryland isn't very tax-friendly for retirees, and many seniors are moving to more tax-friendly states as a result. But Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan wants to change that trend. He recently released a plan to lower income taxes by more than $1 billion for retirees in the state.
Currently, Maryland seniors can exclude up to $31,100 of federally-taxed income from a pension or 401(k) plan (but not from an IRA). There are also income tax exclusions available for the first $15,000 of military pensions and retirement income for certain first responders. However, when you add in local taxes, which can be as high at 3.2%, many Maryland retirees are taxed heavily on income that is not excluded from tax.
Under the governor's plan, there would be no Maryland tax on the first $50,000 of income for retirees with federal adjusted gross income under $100,000. The tax relief would be phased in over a five-year period. According to the governor, his plan would provide tax relief to 230,000 taxpayers and prevent thousands of Maryland retirees from fleeing the state for a more tax-friendly location.

Sign up for Kiplinger’s Free E-Newsletters
Profit and prosper with the best of expert advice on investing, taxes, retirement, personal finance and more - straight to your e-mail.
Profit and prosper with the best of expert advice - straight to your e-mail.
Gov. Hogan also wants to fully exempt all pension and retirement income paid to veterans and first responders.
It's uncertain if the Maryland General Assembly will embrace Gov. Hogan's plan. Maryland Democrats are pushing their own tax reform agenda that would raise up to $2 billion for education reforms. Reaching an agreement on both plans seems unlikely.
Get Kiplinger Today newsletter — free
Profit and prosper with the best of Kiplinger's advice on investing, taxes, retirement, personal finance and much more. Delivered daily. Enter your email in the box and click Sign Me Up.
Rocky Mengle was a Senior Tax Editor for Kiplinger from October 2018 to January 2023 with more than 20 years of experience covering federal and state tax developments. Before coming to Kiplinger, Rocky worked for Wolters Kluwer Tax & Accounting, and Kleinrock Publishing, where he provided breaking news and guidance for CPAs, tax attorneys, and other tax professionals. He has also been quoted as an expert by USA Today, Forbes, U.S. News & World Report, Reuters, Accounting Today, and other media outlets. Rocky holds a law degree from the University of Connecticut and a B.A. in History from Salisbury University.
-
12 Investments No Retiree Should Make
In retirement, when it's wise to take fewer risks with your nest egg, some investments are just nuts.
By David Rodeck
-
What the Capital One Discover Merger Means for Your Wallet
The Capital One Discover merger reshapes the credit card landscape and could impact your credit card rewards, interest rates and card perks.
By Paige Cerulli
-
Trump’s Tax Cut Risks Your SNAP, Medicaid Benefits
Tax Cuts The GOP budget blueprint could slash lifesaving programs for millions of U.S. households.
By Gabriella Cruz-Martínez
-
Missed Tax Day? Nearly One Million Taxpayers Still Can File and Claim Valuable Tax Refunds
Tax Refunds As many as one million taxpayers could be missing out on a significant tax refund.
By Gabriella Cruz-Martínez
-
Which Generation Pays the Most Tax in the US?
Tax Burden Polls show that most people feel like taxes are unfair. But which age group bears the brunt of the tax burden in the United States?
By Kelley R. Taylor
-
How the Trump Harvard IRS Tax Threat Could Impact You
Tax Law Trump's latest higher education showdown raises fundamental questions that could reach beyond Harvard's nonprofit tax status.
By Kelley R. Taylor
-
Tax Day 2025: Don’t Miss These Freebies, Food Deals and Discounts
Tax Day You can score some sweet deals on April 15 in some select restaurants like Burger King, Shake Shack, and more.
By Gabriella Cruz-Martínez
-
Tax Time: Does Your Kid Influencer Owe Taxes?
State Tax Some minors are making big money on social media. Here’s how to know if they need to file taxes.
By Gabriella Cruz-Martínez
-
Did Florida’s Chance at $1,000 in Property Tax Rebates Vanish?
State Taxes The Florida Legislature bypassed Gov. Ron DeSantis’ wish to cut property taxes and instead voted to lower the state’s sales tax.
By Gabriella Cruz-Martínez
-
How Caregivers for Adults Can Save on Taxes in 2025
Tax Breaks Caring for your parent or spouse can be stressful, but the IRS offers tax breaks for qualifying taxpayers. Here they are.
By Kate Schubel