Upon returning from lunch, you find the following message on your voice mail:
This is Jarrett Ogilvie. I'm not one of your clients, but I need some advice. I received a statement in the mail from the Social Security Administration reporting the $8,500 I received from them last year. It says that a portion of my Social Security may be taxable. Last year was the first year I ever received Social Security and I'm confused. I thought Social Security wasn't taxable. Could you call me and explain this?
What facts will you need from Jarrett to determine what portion, if any, of the $8,500 of Social Security benefits is taxable? In your answer, explain how different facts may lead to different taxable amounts.