The taxation of bond interest is relatively straightforward. Assuming the bonds are held in a taxable account, the interest on corporate bonds is generally subject to all income taxes: federal, state (if applicable), and local (if applicable). Treasury issues pay interest that’s subject to federal income tax but not state or local tax. Most municipal bonds pay interest that’s exempt from federal income tax. If you buy a bond issued in your home state, you probably will avoid all tax on the interest income. Plus or minus You may have a more difficult time figuring capital gain or loss on a bond, however. Bonds are issued at so-called par value (for example, $1,000 per bond). Then prices fluctuate as interest
2011 Q2 | Taxes on Bonds Bought at a Premium or Discount
