Tax Consequences of Giving Your Employees a Holiday Gift

Article Highlights:

  • De Minimis Fringe Benefits 
  • Cash Gifts 
  • Gift Certificates 
  • Group Meals 
  • FICA and Wage Withholding 
It is common practice this time of year for employers to give employees gifts. Where the gift is infrequently offered and has a fair market value so low that it is impractical and unreasonable to account for it, the gift’s value would be treated as a de minimis fringe benefit. As such it would be tax-free to the employee and tax deductible by the employer.

A gift of cash, regardless of the amount, is considered additional wages and subject to employment taxes (FICA) and withholding taxes. Caution: if the gift recipient is a W-2 employee, the employer may not issue them a 1099-MISC for a holiday gift of cash; the amount must be treated as W-2 income. Where an employer gives gift certificates, debit cards or similar items that are convertible to cash, the value is considered additional wages regardless of the amount. However, if the gift is a coupon that is nontransferable and convertible only into a turkey, ham, gift basket, or the like at a particular establishment, the gift coupon would not be treated as a cash equivalent.

Holiday group meals, cocktail parties, picnics or the like for employees are also treated as de minimis fringe benefits.

If you have questions about holiday gifts to employees, please give this office a call.



Share this article...

Want tax & accounting tips and insights?

Sign up for our newsletter.

I confirm this is a service inquiry and not an advertising message or solicitation. By clicking “Submit”, I acknowledge and agree to the creation of an account and to the and .
I consent to receive SMS messages and agree with the

A Passion For the Alcohol Industry

Breweries & Distilleries

Breweries & Distilleries Are Our Specialty

At Oak City Payments, we have a deep understanding of the unique financial challenges and opportunities faced by breweries and distilleries. With nearly 15 years of experience in the alcohol industry, our team is passionate about this specialized sector. We're here to make sure your business thrives, whether you're crafting small batch bourbon in Asheville or craft beer in Wilmington. We know North Carolina -- and we know alcohol.

Expertise in Brewery and Distillery Operations

Our founder, Allen Jackson, has a background in the alcohol industry. HIs passion drives our commitment to supporting breweries and distilleries at every stage of their journey. Whether you're a startup craft brewery or an established distillery, we have the knowledge and resources to address your payroll, payments, and accounting needs.

Comprehensive Solutions for Alcohol Businesses

From payroll services specifically tailored to the unique needs of breweries and distilleries to wholesale solutions designed to optimize inventory management, Oak City Payments offers a suite of services to support your business. Our goal is to alleviate administrative burdens by providing the tools and support you need to focus on what you do best—crafting exceptional brews and spirits.

Trusted Partner in the Alcohol Industry

Oak City Payments is proud to be a trusted partner for breweries and distilleries across the Tar Heel State.. With our deep industry knowledge and personalized service, we are dedicated to helping alcohol businesses succeed and thrive in an increasingly competitive market. Cheers to a long-term partnership!

Let Oak City Payments relieve your stress today.
Fuquay-Varina-based Tax & Accounting Experts can help you with all areas of accounting, credit card processing, and payroll.