Married Same-Sex Couples in 7 More States Now Able to Protect Their Families’ Futures
New York City – Same-sex couples planning to marry in the states covered by this week’s momentous Supreme Court decision not to hear appeals aimed at preventing such marriages, as well as the Ninth Circuit decision, now have access to the full range of tax and estate planning options available to other married families. The new states include Colorado, Indiana, Nevada, Oklahoma, Utah, Virginia and Wisconsin, bringing the total number of states that recognize same-sex marriage to 26, plus the District of Columbia. LGBT experts from Marcum LLP, the first national accounting firm with a practice dedicated to the distinct needs of non-traditional families, urge newly married couples, as well as those contemplating marriage, to take appropriate steps to protect their families’ futures and financial assets.
“There are still 24 states that do not recognize same-sex marriages, and that means separate calculations and separate state and federal filings for taxpayers in those states, or those with assets there. Same-sex married couples in the states affected by this week’s legal developments now benefit from the same rights and protections afforded other married couples, which means they are now in a position to take full advantage of tax and estate planning options to secure their families’ futures. Despite the cost and inconvenience of separate filing, however, in some cases it can be more advantageous from a purely financial standpoint, than filing jointly. That’s why it’s extremely important for couples to fully understand the financial ramifications of marriage sooner rather than later,” said Janis Cowhey, LGBT Practice Co-Leader and a Trusts & Estates attorney.
Marcum LLP is the thought leader in the specialty area of tax compliance and consulting services for same-sex and other non-traditional families. The firm’s professionals have more than 20 years of experience in dealing with the complex tax and financial rules faced by the LGBT community, state-by-state and around the country.
About Marcum LLP
Marcum LLP is a top-ranked national accounting and advisory firm dedicated to helping entrepreneurial, middle-market companies and high net worth individuals achieve their goals. Marcum’s industry-focused practices offer deep insight and specialized services to privately held and publicly registered companies, and nonprofit and social sector organizations. The Firm also provides a full complement of technology, wealth management, and executive search and staffing services. Headquartered in New York City, Marcum has offices in major business markets across the U.S. and select international locations. #AskMarcum.
