Annuity Taxes in Washington (2026)
How annuity income and withdrawals are taxed in Washington, the federal rules that apply everywhere, and how your annuity is protected in the state.
How Washington taxes annuity income
No state income tax, making it advantageous for retirees with annuity income.
State treatment only affects the state portion of your tax. The federal rules below apply no matter which state you live in.
Federal tax rules on annuities
- Qualified annuities (funded with pre-tax money, e.g. an IRA rollover): the full withdrawal is taxed as ordinary income.
- Non-qualified annuities (funded with after-tax money): earnings come out first and are taxed as ordinary income. The exclusion ratio sets how much of each payment is taxable earnings vs. tax-free return of principal.
- Annuity gains are taxed as ordinary income, never at lower capital-gains rates.
- Withdrawing taxable amounts before age 59½ generally adds a 10% federal penalty, with limited exceptions.
- Qualified annuities are subject to required minimum distributions (RMDs).
Annuity protection in Washington
Annuities from licensed insurers in Washington are backed by the Washington Life and Disability Insurance Guaranty Association up to state coverage limits if an insurer fails, and insurers are regulated by the Washington State Office of the Insurance Commissioner. Coverage limits vary by state, confirm current limits with the guaranty association.
Frequently asked questions
Does Washington tax annuity income?
No state income tax, making it advantageous for retirees with annuity income. Federal income tax still applies to the taxable portion of annuity payments regardless of state.
How are annuity withdrawals taxed federally?
For qualified (pre-tax) annuities, withdrawals are taxed as ordinary income. For non-qualified annuities, earnings come out first and are taxed as ordinary income (the "exclusion ratio" determines how much of each payment is taxable return of principal vs. earnings). Capital-gains rates do not apply to annuity gains.
Is there a penalty for withdrawing early?
Withdrawing taxable amounts before age 59½ generally triggers a 10% federal early-withdrawal penalty on top of ordinary income tax, with limited exceptions. The insurer's own surrender charges may also apply during the surrender period.
Is my annuity protected in Washington?
Annuities issued by licensed insurers in Washington are backed by the Washington Life and Disability Insurance Guaranty Association up to state coverage limits if an insurer fails. Washington insurers are overseen by the Washington State Office of the Insurance Commissioner. Coverage limits vary; confirm current limits with the association.
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This page is general educational information, not tax or legal advice, and may not reflect the latest law changes. Annuity taxation depends on your specific situation and the annuity type. Consult a qualified tax professional or the Washington State Office of the Insurance Commissioner before making decisions. Information current as of 2026.