Pam recently was sickened by eating spoiled peanut butter. She successfully sued the manufacturer for her medical bills ($3,700), her emotional distress ($6,000 - she now fears peanut butter), and punitive damages ($44,000). What amount must Pam include in her gross income?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The tax laws specify that any payments (other than punitive damages) on account of a physical injury or physical sickness are nontaxable. Damages taxpayers receive for emotional distress associated with a physical injury are also excludable. Punitive damages are fully taxable, however, because they are intended to punish the harm-doer rather than to compensate the taxpayer for injuries.

Pam Recently Was Sickened by Eating Spoiled Peanut Butter