Personal tax tip #53

Figuring Maryland's local income tax

The local income tax is collected on the Maryland state tax form as a convenience to Maryland's 23 counties and Baltimore City, saving them the expense of administering the tax separately. Local officials set the rates and the revenue is returned to the local governments quarterly.

Nonresident taxpayers who are not subject to the local income tax are subject to a special nonresident tax rate of 1.25 percent, in addition to the regular state tax rate for their income level. Other nonresident taxpayers may be subject to the local tax, if the jurisdiction in which they reside imposes a local tax on Maryland residents. Taxpayers in this situation should refer to the Maryland Form 515 instructions for guidance.

The local income tax is calculated as a percentage of taxable income, using line 29 on long Form 502 or line 9 on short Form 503.The local income tax rates range between 1.25 percent and 3.20 percent for tax year 2011. The rates are listed in Instruction 19 of the Maryland tax booklet, along with a special worksheet.

What else should I remember about the local income tax?

The local income tax is based on where you live - not where you work or where your tax preparer's office is located. Be sure to use the correct rate for the county in which you live.