Discuss the requirements for meals provided by employers to be excluded from their employees' income. How is the de minimis rule distinguished from these requirements?
Answer: Meals provided by an employer may be excluded from an employee's gross income if they are furnished on the employer's premises and for the convenience of the employer. In addition, Sec. 132 provides a de minimis exception. Some employers provide supper money to employees who must work overtime. If such benefits are occasionally provided to employees, the amount is excludable from the employee's gross income.