The simplest answer is yes: Social Security income is generally taxable, though whether or not you have to pay taxes on your Social Security benefits depends on your income level. If you have other sources of retirement income, such as a 401(k) or a part-time job, then you should expect to pay income taxes on your Social Security benefits. If you rely exclusively on your Social Security checks, though, you probably won’t pay taxes on your benefits. Regardless, it’s a good idea to work with a financial advisor who can help you understand how different sources of retirement income will be taxed.