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Tax Incentives for Employing Children in Family Businesses
Employing children in a family business offers various tax benefits under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA). Children under 18 can work unlimited hours without restrictions. Parents can pay their children up to the standard deduction limit of $14,600 tax-free, allowing them to receive this income without needing to file a tax return if it's their only source of income. However, payments must be made for legitimate services, and reasonable wages must be determined based on minimum wage guidelines relevant to the child's job and location. Payment by the hour is recommended, especially for younger children whose work availability may be limited due to school commitments. The business employing the child must be fully owned by the parents, which may complicate situations where the business is a partnership. However, businesses cannot justify exorbitant payments for trivial tasks, as the child's work must be genuine and verifiable. Overall, these regulations highlight the importance of compliance with labor laws and appropriate compensation practices when employing children in a family business.