Taxable Benefits

* As much as I am opposed to the taxation of Social Security benefits, and more so to the proposed increase from 50%, Joseph H. Hoff’s example (Letters, July 3) is incorrect.

The couple’s taxable income must be at least $44,000 to pay $900 tax on the $12,000 Social Security received.

The present rule is that 50% of the benefits must be added to the other income received and when this total exceeds $32,000, 50% of the amount over $32,000 up to 50% of the benefits received must be included in taxable income.

I don’t mind pinpointing inequities, but get the facts straight.

GERALD H. BORST

Huntington Beach