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IRS Extends PFML Tax Rule Non-Enforcement Through 2026

The IRS said states need additional time to update systems to implement federal tax treatment of PFML benefits.

Overview

  • Notice 2026-06 designates 2026 as an additional transition year, pausing federal withholding, employment taxes, and information reporting on state-paid PFML benefits.
  • The extension does not cover voluntary employer “pick-up” contributions, which must still be treated as wages and reported on Form W-2.
  • Revenue Ruling 2025-4 remains in effect, stating state PFML payments are taxable income and wages for federal employment tax purposes.
  • The relief described applies to public state PFML programs and does not extend to private plans.
  • States, employers, and payroll providers are expected to use 2026 to ready systems for compliance after the transition ends.