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Are Wrongful Death Insurance Settlements Taxed?

Home » Wrongful Death Attorney in Columbia, SC » Are Wrongful Death Insurance Settlements Taxed?

If you have lost somebody you love due to the negligent or intentional actions of somebody else in South Carolina, you may be entitled to compensation for your loss. At The Jeffcoat Firm, our Columbia wrongful death lawyers have a track record of success in helping clients get through these difficult situations. We understand this can be a confusing time for everybody involved, and you need to know whether or not you will owe taxes on any settlement or jury verdict you are awarded in a wrongful death claim. 

Are settlements in South Carolina wrongful death claims taxable?

We understand that no amount of money can erase the pain you and your family are experiencing after losing a loved one. However, the law does give you the right to file a wrongful death claim in South Carolina, and you may be entitled to significant compensation. In many cases, a wrongful death lawyer is able to help family members recover compensation through:

  • A negotiated settlement with the alleged negligent parties; or 
  • A jury verdict after the case is heard in trial 

Regardless of how surviving family members receive compensation for the loss of their loved one, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) will generally not tax any compensatory damages awarded in a settlement or verdict. This can include compensation for pain and suffering damages, funeral and burial expenses, loss of future income the deceased would have provided, and more. 

However, there are times when punitive damages may also be awarded in a wrongful death case. These damages are intended to punish a defendant when the actions that caused the death of your loved one were particularly egregious or grossly negligent. If punitive damages are awarded in these cases, the IRS will tax them. In general, punitive damages are rarely awarded. If you do receive punitive damages in your wrongful death claim, please speak to a tax professional.

We offer a free consultation – call us today.

If you have lost a loved one due to the careless or negligent actions of somebody else in South Carolina, contact The Jeffcoat Firm today. Our knowledgeable and experienced wrongful death team members in South Carolina are ready to get to work on your case. You can contact us for a free consultation of your case by clicking here or by calling us at 803-373-1302.

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The Jeffcoat Firm Injury & Accident Lawyers

1333 Main St #510,
Columbia, SC 29201

(803) 373-1668

The Jeffcoat Firm Injury & Accident Lawyers

5465 Sunset Blvd Suite B,
Lexington, SC 29072

(803) 373-1302

The Jeffcoat Firm Injury & Accident Lawyers

161 Elliott St SE Suite B,
Orangeburg, SC 29115

(803) 373-7593

The Jeffcoat Firm Injury & Accident Lawyers

749-2 University Village Dr,
Blythewood, SC 29016

(803) 592-6553

! NOTICE ! No Legal Advice Intended. This website includes general information about legal issues and developments in the law. Such materials are for informational purposes only and may not reflect the most current legal developments. These informational materials are not intended, and must not be taken, as legal advice on any particular set of facts or circumstances. You need to contact a lawyer licensed in your jurisdiction for advice on specific legal issues or problems.

Files are primarily handled in our main office in Columbia.

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