The federal alternative minimum tax and the library director's salary in New Jersey

Abstract

PurposeThe federal alternative minimum tax (AMT) portion of the annual federal income tax filing procedures is destined to have severe effects on the compensation and take home pay of senior management librarians. By examining the history of the AMT and typical principal librarian or director's salaries in New Jersey one can see the need to change the salary. The purpose of this article is to offer two additional proposed salaries for the director. One salary serves as an incremental improvement, the other serves as a step up to the executive status requisite for a position of such responsibility and effort.Design/methodology/approachThis article discusses the AMT and typical principal librarian or director's salaries in New Jersey.FindingsLittle difference is seen among the salary levels regarding typical monthly expenses after payroll deductions are made as a result of the effects of the AMT. If salaries are not changed to reflect an increase in discretionary funds commensurate with the position, the AMT formula will need to change.Originality/valueRecommendations are provided for salary and AMT changes based on an analysis of expenses and tax code.