IRS Issues Guidance on Payroll Tax Deferment Presidential Order

by Gulfshore Insurance

On Aug. 8, 2020, President Donald Trump ordered the U.S. Department of Treasury to defer collecting certain payroll taxes from wages earned between Sept. 1 and Dec. 31, 2020.

On Aug. 28, 2020, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) issued Notice 2020-65 (the Notice) to provide guidance for affected employers. Employer participation in these deferrals is permitted, but not required. The Notice releases employers from their obligation to collect and pay payroll Social Security taxes for individuals who receive applicable wages, defined as compensation that is less than $4,000 for a biweekly pay period, or “the equivalent threshold amount with respect to other pay periods.” Employers must determine whether applicable wages exist every pay period between Sept. 1 and Dec. 31, 2020.

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Ryan Laude is a Client Advisor at Gulfshore Insurance specializing in employee benefits. Ryan works with a wide range of businesses to create the best funding options that fit their needs. Comments and questions are welcome at rlaude@gulfshoreinsurance.com

Gulfshore Insurance is a Naples, Florida based insurance agency specializing in employee benefits insurance including group medical, dental, vision, life insurance, short and long term disability, voluntary life, employee assistance programs, wellness programs, individual life insurance, and more. Our insurance and risk management advisors are experts can provide valuable services including benefits plan design and administration, human resources support, funding options, compliance assistance, benefit administration, and enrollment services. Gulfshore Insurance services Naples, North Naples, Marco Island, Bonita Springs, Fort Myers, and Southwest Florida. We have office locations in Naples, Fort Myers, Fort Lauderdale, and Sarasota.