Name, image, likeness — and taxes: What NIL means for student athletes and CPAs

In this episode, host April Walker, CPA, CGMA, Senior Manager — AICPA & CIMA, is joined by Edward Jenkins, CPA, CGMA, Professor of Practice in Accounting — Penn State University, to discuss name, image and likeness (NIL) taxation issues for student athletes. Together they unpack common misconceptions, emerging revenue streams, unresolved classification issues and the growing complexity of state taxation. Highlights include key considerations — and opportunities — for CPAs advising clients in this rapidly changing area.

 

What you'll learn from this episode: 

• Understand how NIL income is taxed — and why student athletes are often surprised at filing time
• Learn where the biggest compliance risks and reporting pitfalls are for student athletes
• Explore the unresolved questions around worker classification and self‑employment (SE) tax
• Hear why state tax, dependency and multi‑state issues make NIL especially complex

Resources

·       State and Local Tax (SALT) Resource Center

·       Student Athlete Income Recognition: State and Federal Tax Care Required

 

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