DOMA Ruling Can Impact Employer Payroll Deductions

On June 26, 2013, the Supreme Court ruled that the Defense of Marriage Act (DOMA) is unconstitutional. The law prevented same-sex couples from receiving Federal benefits available to other married couples. What this means for employers:

Employee-paid premiums for a same-sex spouse can now be paid for pre-tax. Previously, pre-tax payroll deductions applied only to New York State taxes since New York recognizes same-sex marriage. Now it also applies to Federal taxes.