How do after-tax deductions differ from pre-tax deductions?
What types of expenses are covered under after-tax deductions?
How do after-tax deductions impact an employee’s net pay?
After-tax deductions are amounts withheld from an employee’s paycheck after all mandatory taxes have been subtracted. These include deductions such as Roth 401(k) contributions, union dues, or wage garnishments.
Pre-tax deductions are taken from an employee’s paycheck before taxes, lowering their taxable income. Common examples include health insurance premiums and retirement contributions. After-tax deductions are taken from an employee's paycheck after mandatory taxes have been calculated, such as the Federal Insurance Contributions Act (FICA tax) and income tax.
Types of after-tax deductions can include Roth 401(k) contributions, union dues, charitable donations, certain life insurance premiums, and wage garnishments. They may also include disability insurance premiums and post-tax commuter benefits.
After-tax deductions reduce an employee’s earnings after income and payroll taxes are applied. The remaining amount, known as net pay or take-home pay, reflects the total earnings minus all pre-tax and after-tax deductions.
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