What do Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce have in common? Well, they’re both navigating the tricky world of state income taxes, especially when it comes to the so-called “jock tax.” This term refers to the regulations that compel professional athletes and entertainers to file tax returns in every state where they perform, even if they’re just flying in for a quick show or game.
Now, it’s probably safe to say that neither Swift nor Kelce is personally handling their own tax returns, so don’t shed too many tears for them. Their careers haven’t been jeopardized by this issue.
But here’s the thing: this jock tax isn’t only about big-name celebrities. Yes, Swift and Kelce are raking in impressive salaries, but many others, with much more modest incomes, are required to file the same number of tax returns as they do.
The definitions of “professional athletes” and “celebrities” are broader than most might think. This means even those who play lesser-known roles—like trainers and other support staff—have to deal with these filing requirements. All those behind-the-scenes folks make it possible for events to happen, yet they’re often earning salaries that are pretty average by American standards. They are subject to the same complicated tax regulations as the stars.
Moreover, many athletes and entertainers don’t actually earn six-figure salaries. Take Major League Soccer, for example, where some players might make only around $80,000. WNBA players are facing a minimum salary of $66,000 in 2025, which is not exactly abundant. Minor league athletes are also struggling; a 2022 survey showed that more than half of them hold down second jobs just to make ends meet.
Meanwhile, just because someone performs in front of an audience, it doesn’t guarantee wealth. Still, all these individuals, whether they’re minor league players or support staff, must file taxes in the various states they visit.
For regular taxpayers earning less than a million, that could mean filing in multiple states, which adds up. It might cost around $65 to add another state return to a tax software program. Consequently, this can become a significant burden when multiplied across many workers in the industry—far beyond those who are as famous as Swift and Kelce.
The situation calls for a reevaluation of who qualifies for the jock tax. States are often reluctant to make changes, perhaps because of a misperception that taxing visiting talent brings in substantial revenue, but reality tells a different story.
A survey from March 2020 estimated that potential cancellations due to the pandemic could generate just $295 million in total jock tax revenue across affected states, which is really only 0.1% of overall income tax revenues.
So, if states want to celebrate Swift and Kelce’s engagement, they should address the needs of everyday taxpayers struggling with these confusing tax norms rather than just focusing on the glamorous lives of the famous.
