A listener asks: In 2023, I settled large credit card debts with collectors. I’ve heard that forgiven debt can be treated as taxable income. What should I expect this year on my taxes?

This episode explains the general rule but then outlines two exceptions that could provide some tax relief for credit card debt settlement.

https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-form-982

https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-publication-4681

Q&A: Do I Owe Tax When I Settle Credit Card Debt with Collectors?

The Women’s Investor Community is a place to ask all the money and finance questions - especially the ones that feel hard, embarrassing, or complex. 

It's a place to get well-researched, forward-thinking investment ideas that move the world to a better place. And it's a place to let your guard down - to finally feel like you can live in your authenticity AND be financially successful.

If you have a personal finance question, please feel free to get in touch at www.dianarichey.com.

About the Host: 

Diana Richey is a nationally recognized personal finance expert. She is passionate about helping people take control of their finances and invest in conscious companies. As a financial planner and tax lawyer with over two decades of experience, she has worked with individuals and represented multinational corporations on everything from sustainable investing to international tax planning to charitable giving.

Diana earned a B.A. with honors from The University of Chicago and a J.D., cum laude, from Boston University School of Law. She is a Certified Financial Planner (CFP®), Project Management Professional (PMP®), trained mediator, and FINRA arbitrator. She sits on the Board of Nature and Culture International, a 501(c)(3) dedicated to preserving wild places.

She lives in Jackson Hole, Wyoming with her husband, young son, and dog.

LEGAL, INVESTMENT AND TAX NOTICE: This information is not intended to be and should not be treated as legal advice, investment advice or tax advice. The reader should under no circumstances rely upon this information as a substitute for obtaining specific legal or tax advice from their own legal or tax advisors.