What benefit does interest earned on municipal bonds typically have?

Interest earned on municipal bonds is typically exempt from federal income tax. This tax advantage makes municipal bonds an attractive investment, particularly for individuals in higher tax brackets. Investors are drawn to this feature because it allows them to retain more of their earnings compared to other fixed-income investments, where interest is fully taxable.

Consequently, the tax-exempt status of municipal bond interest can significantly enhance the after-tax returns for investors, especially when compared to taxable bonds. By providing this benefit, municipal bonds serve not only as a means of raising funds for state and local projects but also as a tool for individual investors looking to optimize their investment returns in a tax-efficient manner.