SEATTLE —
Seattle Certified Public Accountant Jordan Heitzman specializes in tax returns for same-sex couples. He says the federal Defense of Marriage Act keeps the Internal Revenue Service from treating gay couples exactly like straight couples.
Same-sex couples could lose out when it comes to deductions for children, health insurance premiums and Social Security Survivor's Benefits.
The U.S. Supreme Court may decide as early as Friday whether to hear challenges that could overturn the Defense of Marriage Act.
Helen Folsom is client of Heitzman, who plans to be married in January and is asking for advice on how to handle their real estate. She says the tax code will not deter them. "Everyday my mind is blown by what life is like now to be in my 60s and she in her 70s and be in love."
Heitzman encourages all same-sex couples to seek tax advice before making any significant financial changes in their lives.