UPDATE 10/21/10: The IRS has announced that the health care reporting requirement will be optional in 2011 and mandatory in 2012.  From the IRS “to provide employers the time they need to make changes to their payroll systems or procedures in preparation for compliance with this requirement, the IRS will defer the reporting requirement for 2011, making that reporting by employers optional in 2011.” Thanks to the health care reform legislation, employers are required to report the value of the health insurance coverage they provide on each employee’s annual Form W-2 beginning in tax year 2011. This reporting is for informational purposes only, to show employees the value of their health care benefits so they can be more informed consumers, according to the IRS. There has been considerable confusion generated concerning the reporting of the value of health insurance coverage-with rumors spread that the amount is taxable for income tax purposes. To be clear, the amount reported does not affect tax liability, as the value of the employer contribution to health coverage continues to be excludible from an employee’s income and it is not taxable. Source: Clergy Financial Resources https://www.clergyfinancial.com Clergy Financial Resources is a national accounting and finance organization serving churches and clergy since 1980. They have an unparalleled tax expertise on the complex issues associated with clergy tax law, clergy taxes, clergy compensation and church payroll. Clergy Financial Resources is a valuable resource for clergy, churches and denominations.

Clergy Financial Resources serves as a resource for clients to help analyze the complexity of clergy tax law, church payroll & HR issues. Our professionals are committed to helping clients stay informed about tax news, developments and trends in various specialty areas.

This article is intended to provide readers with guidance in tax matters. The article does not constitute, and should not be treated as professional advice regarding the use of any particular tax technique. Every effort has been made to assure the accuracy of the information. Clergy Financial Resources and the author do not assume responsibility for any individual’s reliance upon the information provided in the article. Readers should independently verify all information before applying it to a particular fact situation, and should independently determine the impact of any particular tax planning technique. If you are seeking legal advice, you are encouraged to consult an attorney.

For more information or if you need additional assistance, please use the contact information below.

Clergy Financial Resources
11214 86th Avenue N.
Maple Grove, MN 55369

Tel: (888) 421-0101 
Fax: (888) 876-5101
Email: clientservices@clergyfinancial.com