Smyrna, GA asked in Tax Law for Georgia

Q: general motor survivor benefit was taxed 33% instead of 20% is that normal

my dad passed and i was able to get survivor benefit, however they taxed 32% instead of 20%

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James L. Arrasmith
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Answered

A: It's understandable to be concerned about the tax rate on your survivor benefit, especially when it seems higher than expected. Survivor benefits are often subject to federal income tax, and the withholding rate can vary based on several factors, including the amount of the benefit and your overall income tax bracket. The 20% you mentioned may be the standard withholding rate, but in some cases, the rate can be higher if there’s an expectation that you’ll fall into a higher tax bracket.

To clarify why the rate was 32%, you might want to review any tax documentation you received with the benefit. It might provide an explanation or breakdown of the withholding rate applied.

If this doesn’t answer your concern, contacting the benefits administrator or consulting with a tax professional could help ensure that the correct rate was applied and guide you on whether any adjustments need to be made when you file your taxes.

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