Governor McKee, AARP Urge Elimination of Tax on Social Security Benefits
Published on Monday, March 16, 2026
NEWPORT, RI — Governor Dan McKee, AARP State Director Catherine Taylor, and Office of Healthy Aging Director Maria Cimini met with older adults at the Edward King House senior center today to promote the Governor’s Affordability for All Agenda, including the elimination of Rhode Island’s tax on social security benefits.
“Many people here have been paying taxes—specifically social security taxes—for their whole careers,” said Governor Dan McKee. “When those hard-working people retire, is it fair that they should have those earnings taxed all over again?”
The Governor added that Rhode Island is only one of eight states that taxes some social security benefits. His proposal phases in over three budget cycles, with the first year providing relief to early retirees who are taxed for their benefits regardless of their annual income. The average income of an early retiree in Rhode Island is $40,000, with joint filers averaging $75,000.
“Older adults often claim Social Security before their full retirement age due to health challenges, job loss, or the need to care for loved ones. Yet, those Rhode Islanders caring for themselves and their loved ones have been excluded from the Social Security tax exemption,” said Maria E. Cimini, MSW, Director, RI Office of Healthy Aging. “Governor McKee’s proposal recognizes those circumstances and ensures that more older adults can keep the full value of the benefits they have earned. This change will help support greater financial stability and dignity for thousands of Rhode Islanders.”
“The tax the state currently collects – over $40 million annually – comes from people who worked hard throughout their lifetime and paid into Social Security,” said AARP Rhode Island State Director Catherine Taylor. “Far too many are now struggling to afford health care and other basic needs. The promise of Social Security is more important than ever. AARP Rhode Island will never stop fighting to protect Social Security and ensure hard-working Rhode Islanders get the Social Security they have earned. It’s time to eliminate this unfair tax.”
During his visit, the governor also met with Edward King House Director Carmela Geer and numerous volunteers assisting older adults with filing their annual tax returns.
“Every year our tax aide volunteers give something incredibly valuable to our community; their time, their expertise, and their patience,” said Carmela Geer, the Executive Director of the Edward King House Senior Center. “We are deeply grateful for their commitment and the care they show every person who walks through our doors.”