Marcum LLP Launches Interactive Map Tracking Same-Sex Marriage by State
New York City, NY– Marcum LLP, a top national accounting and advisory firm, today unveiled an interactive map tracking the status of same-sex marriage in each of the 50 U.S. states and how such unions are treated for tax purposes. The map was created as a tool for clients of Marcum’s national Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender (LGBT) & Non-Traditional Family Practice group.
The map enables users to view the status of same-sex marriage unions in individual states by hovering their computer cursors. A pop-up chart for the highlighted state reveals a variety of data, including whether same-sex marriage or rights similar to marriage are recognized in that state, and the effective date the applicable law was enacted and/or repealed. The chart also notes whether it is a community property state and whether protective tax refund claims or amended allocated tax returns should be filed.
As of January 1, 2013, nine states, including Connecticut, Iowa, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New York, Vermont, and Washington, as well as the District of Columbia have legalized same-sex marriage. In addition, Rhode Island recognizes same-sex marriages performed in other jurisdictions, and California, which briefly granted same-sex marriages in 2008, now recognizes them on a conditional basis.
“In states permitting or recognizing same-sex unions, taxpayers must be vigilant and proactive in order to make sure they are getting full benefit from the equitable tax treatment that is available to them. It is critical that married same-sex couples file protective claims now to ensure that they have access to any retroactive refunds they may be due pending the Supreme Court decision,before the statute of limitations expires. The ruling may also allow same-sex married couples to benefit from tax-advantaged estate planning,” said Janis Cowhey, a partner in the firm’s New York City office and a member of its Trusts and Estates Practice group, who frequently lectures on LGBT estate and income tax issues. Ms. McDonagh is the author of Top 10 Estate Planning Tips for LGBT & Non-Traditional Families.
Marcum LLP is the thought leader in the specialty area of tax compliance and consulting services within the LGBT community. The firm’s professionals have more than 20 years of experience in dealing with the complex tax and financial rules faced by LGBT couples and families, 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.
