Submitted By: Jack
Answered: May 13, 2014 8:30 am

I received a legal settlement from an insurance company as a result of my sister’s death in a car accident (I’m her next of kin). Is this taxable to me?

Sorry about your personal loss. The settlement is tax free to you because it is compensation for personal physical injury. However, if any part of the settlement is for punitive damages, those are taxable.

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Tax Glossary

Home equity debt

Debt secured by a principal residence or second home to the extent of the excess of fair market value over acquisition debt. An interest deduction is generally allowed for home equity debt up to $100,000 ($50,000 if married filing separately).

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