Skip to main content
June 6, 2019
Solved

How should withholding be calculated on a settlement check for lost wages?

  • June 6, 2019
  • 1 reply
  • 0 views

I am to receive 2 checks in a discrimination settlement case.  One is for pain and suffering. No tax will be deducted and the check will be supported by form 1099..  I say the second check for lost wages should be treated like a Norman payroll check and taxes withheld accordingly.  Employer says they must take a percentage which results in a deduction $5287.68 more than a normal payroll deduction.  What is correct?

    Best answer by PatriciaV

    Unfortunately, settlement proceeds for punitive damages are taxable, as are awards for employment discrimination. Lost wages are subject only to normal withholding of Federal taxes, Social Security, and Medicare.

    For more info, see: IRS Settlements Brochure

    1 reply

    PatriciaV
    PatriciaVAnswer
    Employee
    June 6, 2019

    Unfortunately, settlement proceeds for punitive damages are taxable, as are awards for employment discrimination. Lost wages are subject only to normal withholding of Federal taxes, Social Security, and Medicare.

    For more info, see: IRS Settlements Brochure

    **Say "Thanks" by clicking the thumb icon in a post**Mark the post that answers your question by clicking on "Mark as Best Answer"
    July 26, 2019

    I was assessed Self Employment taxes on a settlement for Defamation.  Why is this considered income subject to the SE tax?  Why did Turbo Tax not point that out when I filed?

     

    Critter
    Employee
    July 26, 2019
    There are several places to enter a 1099-misc and the program leans hevily to putting it on a Sch C but to get it to the line 21 of the 1040 required you to read the screen options carefully and answer them correctly ...you can amend the return to complete that section again.