Answer:

The taxation of your investment income depends on several factors, including the type of investment income you have (e.g., tax exempt, ordinary, capital gain, or tax deferred).

If you have municipal bonds, the interest they generate is typically exempt from federal taxation and state taxation in the state the bonds are issued. The interest may or may not be subject to state income tax in the state of your residence, if different from the state of issue. U.S. Treasury bills and certain types of government savings bonds generate interest that is typically subject to federal tax, but not state tax.

Of course, not all investments are tax exempt. Investment income is generated by either the income it produces during the ownership of the investment (e.g., interest, dividends, or rent) or the gain it produces when the investment is sold at an appreciated value. Investment income such as interest and rent is considered ordinary income and will generally be taxed according to your ordinary income tax rate. If you have investment income from the sale of a capital asset that is held for more than one year (e.g., stock or investment property), the income is generally considered capital gain and is taxed at long-term capital gains rates. Qualifying dividends are also taxed at long-term capital gains rates (dividends that don't qualify for long-term capital gains rates are taxed at ordinary income tax rates).

Finally, you should know that tax-deferred investments (such as 401(k) plans) produce earnings and gains that are not taxed until later, when the money is distributed to you.

For more information, consult a tax professional.

Note: Since 2013, a 3.8 percent Medicare tax is also imposed on interest, dividends, capital gains and other investment income for individuals making more than $200,000 ($250,000, if married filing jointly).

Please be advised that this materials is not intended as legal or tax advice. Accordingly, any tax information provided in this material is not intended or written to be used, and cannot be used, by any taxpayer for the purpose of avoiding penalties that may be imposed on the taxpayer. The tax information was written to support the promotion or marketing of the transactions(s) or matter(s) addressed and you should seek advice based on your particular circumstances from an independent advisor.

Equitable Financial Life Insurance Company (NY, NY). Securities are offered through Equitable Advisors, LLC, NY, NY 212-314-4600 (member FINRA / SIPC). Equitable and Equitable Advisors are affiliated companies, do not provide legal or tax advice and are not affiliated with Broadridge Investor Communication Solutions, Inc.