Are Jury Awards Taxable?
When is a jury award taxable? The answer depends on the circumstances. If the money is intended to make the victim whole, it will likely not be taxable. On the other hand, if it is intended to replace the victim's income, it will be taxable. Therefore, you should consider this aspect when calculating the amount you should deduct from your income. The following information will help you understand how to calculate the tax liability of your jury award.
If you receive a settlement or jury award for personal injuries, the money is generally not taxable. However, you may receive punitive damages, back pay, interest on unpaid money, and emotional distress damages, which are usually taxable. Similarly, attorney fees may be deducted from your total compensation in some cases. However, before you decide whether to deduct your jury award, be sure to consult with a tax advisor and understand the applicable rules.
While compensatory damages are not taxable, punitive damages are. Punitive damages are damages awarded as a punishment to the defendant who caused the injury. They are usually taxable since they represent cash awards and are generally based on negligence. Similarly, interest on a settlement award is considered taxable income. However, punitive damages are rarely awarded in personal injury lawsuits, but they do occur in some instances.
In most cases, emotional distress damages are taxable. However, there is a small exception. Emotional distress damages are not taxable if the recipient does not itemize medical expenses. If the money awarded was used to relieve the victim of emotional distress, they will be taxable. However, emotional distress damages are not taxable if the injury was intentional. It may still be taxable if the money is used for non-economic reasons.
When calculating the tax liability on your personal injury award, it is important to understand the tax ramifications. If you were awarded a settlement for property damage, you can treat it as capital gains or recover your tax basis. If you are awarded a settlement for personal injury without punitive damages, however, your jury award may be taxable. It is important to talk to a tax professional about the potential tax implications of any settlement.
The taxation of your personal injury settlement depends on whether it is a jury award or a settlement with the defendant. Punitive and compensatory damages, however, can be taxable. A personal injury attorney can help you determine how much you will need to pay in taxes on any awards that you receive. The Rose Sanders Law Firm, PLLC, is committed to helping clients get the compensation they deserve. You should contact an attorney today to learn more about the tax implications of your personal injury case.
The IRS does not tax money awarded as compensatory damages. These awards are designed to make the victim whole, not to punish the defendant. So, for instance, a $10,000 personal injury jury award is not a financial windfall. However, the money you receive as a result of a personal injury jury award will be taxed at ordinary income rates. So, before you file a lawsuit, remember to know the tax implications of your case.