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Kansas Tax Guide: Income Brackets & Filing Tips

Navigate Kansas income tax brackets, high sales tax rates, and property tax obligations for the 2025 tax year.

5.7%
Top Income Tax Rate
8.70%
Combined Sales Tax
1.33%
Property Tax Rate
#22
Tax Burden Rank

Tax Overview

Kansas uses a three-bracket progressive income tax system with a top rate of 5.7% on income above $30,000 for single filers. The state has had a turbulent tax history, having experimented with dramatic tax cuts in 2012 that were largely reversed by 2017 due to revenue shortfalls. The current system represents a stabilized approach that balances revenue needs with competitive rates.

Sales tax in Kansas is among the highest in the nation, with a state rate of 6.5% and local additions that push the combined rate above 8.7% on average. Kansas taxes groceries at the full rate, which has been a contentious issue. The state has been gradually reducing the grocery tax rate, with the goal of full elimination by 2025, though implementation details should be verified.

Property taxes in Kansas are above the national average, with effective rates around 1.33%. The state offers a homestead property tax refund for qualifying low-income homeowners and renters, as well as the SAFESR (Selective Assistance For Effective Senior Relief) program for seniors. Kansas does not tax Social Security benefits.

Income Tax

Kansas has three income tax brackets. The state previously experimented with dramatic tax cuts that were reversed. Social Security benefits are exempt.

Income RangeTax Rate
$0 – $15,0003.1%
$15,001 – $30,0005.25%
$30,001 +5.7%

Sales Tax

State Rate6.50%
Avg. Local Rate2.20%
Combined Rate8.70%

Property Tax

Effective Rate1.33%
Median Annual Bill$2,235

Key Deductions in Kansas

  • ✓Kansas standard deduction of $3,500 (single) or $8,000 (married filing jointly)
  • ✓Social Security income exemption (AGI under $75,000)
  • ✓Kansas 529 plan contribution deduction (up to $6,000 per beneficiary)
  • ✓Homestead property tax refund for low-income homeowners/renters
  • ✓SAFESR program for seniors (property tax relief)
  • ✓Child and dependent care credit

Filing Information

Filing Deadline: April 15

Tax Authority: Kansas Department of Revenue

Phone: (785) 368-8222

Website: https://www.ksrevenue.gov

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Kansas tax Social Security benefits?
Kansas exempts Social Security benefits from state income tax for taxpayers with federal AGI of $75,000 or less. Those above this threshold may owe state tax on their Social Security income.
Does Kansas tax groceries?
Kansas has been phasing down its grocery tax rate. The state has been gradually reducing the sales tax on groceries toward full elimination. Check current rates as this is an active legislative area.
What happened with the Kansas tax experiment?
In 2012, Kansas enacted dramatic income tax cuts that eliminated taxes on pass-through business income and reduced rates. Revenue shortfalls forced rollbacks in 2017, and the state restored a three-bracket progressive system.
What property tax relief is available in Kansas?
Kansas offers a Homestead property tax refund for low-income homeowners and renters. The SAFESR program provides additional relief for seniors age 65+ with household income under $22,000. Both programs require annual application.

Neighboring State Guides

NebraskaMissouriOklahomaColorado

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