What is a Post Tax Deduction?

A post-tax deduction is a reduction made to an employee's pay after federal, state, and local taxes have already been taken out. Unlike pre-tax deductions, which are taken out of an employee's pay before taxes, post-tax deductions are made after taxes have already been calculated. Examples of post-tax deductions include wage garnishments for child support or alimony, court-ordered fines, or voluntary salary reductions for benefits such as health insurance or a 401(k) plan. Post-tax deductions reduce an employee's take-home pay and can be used to satisfy a variety of obligations. The amount of the post-tax deduction and the frequency of its occurrence will vary depending on the type of deduction and the employee's individual circumstances.