Re-post from CAR

Bill to Stop Tax on Loan Modifications Passes Legislature – updated 7/17/14 If the principal on your mortgage was reduced with a loan modification new legislation may lower taxes. The Legislature has passed AB 1393 (Perea), a bill that will prevent homeowners from being charged state income tax when they’ve had a mortgage loan modified to reduce the principal. Under current law, the forgiven debt created by a reduction in principal as a result of a loan modification isn’t subject to federal income tax, but is currently taxable under state law. The bill has been passed by the state Legislature and awaits the Governor’s signature. If signed, it will become effective immediately and is retroactive to January 1, 2014. This is great news for homeowners.