In California does a person have to pay taxes on a (physical) personal injury settlement?

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lbcali asked:


I’m not sure what a 1099 form is or if and when I will have to file it for my (physical personal injury) settlement. Any info or input would be greatly appreciated.

Gwinnett Personal Injury Lawyer
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December 14, 2009

Gwinnett Personal Injury Lawyer

Whom ever pays you the settlement will file the 1099. You would include as income any amount that is reimbursement for amounts that you have taken a deduction for in a prior year. The rest should be without tax liability.

December 15, 2009

Gwinnett Personal Injury Lawyer

There is a tax concept called the origin of the claim. This tracks the taxabiliy of the settlement back to the purpose for the awarded damages. Awards for physical injury are generally tax exempt. Awards for punitive damages are, however, taxable… as are awards for loss of pay.

Here is an IRS document which summarizes the taxability of various settlements:

California conforms to the Federal code on these issues. Go to the Franchise Tax Board link below and press Ctrl-F and search for Punitive…

December 16, 2009

Gwinnett Personal Injury Lawyer

Usually depends on whether the payments are for medical, pain and suffering (Usually not taxable) or for punitive damages to punish the guilty party (usually taxable).

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