Income Tax Rate Changes Across Nine States in 2025
Although tax rates fluctuate significantly depending on the state you reside in, it’s a given that a portion of your earnings will be deducted from each paycheck. There is, however, a silver lining: starting January 1, 2025, income tax reductions will come into play in nine states. While some of these cuts are minor, others are noteworthy. To stay ahead of your financial obligations, consider utilizing a spreadsheet to monitor your tax information year-round. Let’s delve into the states that are offering these beneficial changes in taxation for 2025.
States Benefiting from Income Tax Reductions
Here’s an overview of the modifications occurring in each state:
Indiana
The Hoosier State is enacting a slight reduction in its income tax rates, decreasing from 3.05% to 3% in 2025. Though minimal, this adjustment reflects ongoing efforts to lighten the financial load for Hoosier residents.
Iowa
Iowa is taking bold steps to streamline its tax framework by transitioning to a flat income tax rate of 3.8% in 2025. This change represents a notable drop from last year’s peak rate of 5.7%, offering potentially significant savings for those in higher income brackets.
Louisiana
Similar to Iowa’s approach, Louisiana is shifting from a tiered tax system to a uniform tax rate of 3%, down from a top rate of 4.25%. This revamp means individuals earning between $30,000 and $40,000—the most prevalent income bracket in the state—will pay roughly $338 annually in income taxes.
Mississippi
Mississippi residents will benefit from a tax rate reduction from 4.7% to 4.4% starting in 2025. Interestingly, state authorities have aspirations to eradicate income taxes entirely in the future, though a specific timeline has yet to be defined.
Missouri
In Missouri, taxpayers will see a marginal tax rate decrease from 4.8% to 4.7%. While the adjustment is modest, it continues the state’s trend toward easing the tax burden on its residents.
Nebraska
Nebraska is offering a more substantial tax relief, with income tax rates dropping from 5.84% to 5.2%. This reduction is one of the more significant percentage decreases among the states making changes.
New Mexico
New Mexico continues with its tiered income tax system but has lowered rates in two of its six brackets. Individuals earning below $5,500 will see their rate decrease from 1.7% to 1.5%, while those earning between $16,500 and $33,500 will have their rate cut from 4.7% to 4.3%.
North Carolina
The Tar Heel State is reducing its tax rate from 4.75% to 4.5%, with intentions for additional reductions on the horizon. Officials have already stated plans to lower the rate to 3.99% by 2026, signaling a commitment to tax relief.
West Virginia
West Virginia has adopted a distinct strategy by applying a universal 4% reduction across income taxes for 2025. Specific rates have not been clarified, but the state shares an ambition with Mississippi to potentially eliminate income taxes completely.
It’s worth noting that even though tax rates won’t change in 2025, the thresholds for each tax bracket will increase to combat inflation and prevent “bracket creep.”
Ultimately, consulting with tax professionals is advisable to gauge how these changes may impact individual circumstances, ensuring full utilization of the newly implemented tax rates.

