Imputed income works on the principle of adding value to cash or non-cash employee compensation to properly withhold employment and income taxes from wages. In other words, Imputed income is the value of a service or benefit provided by employers to employees, which must be treated as income. Unless specifically exempt, imputed income is taxed. Since it is calculated for employment-related services, employers need to include it in Form W-2 for accurately reflecting taxable income. Imputed income on paycheck. Imputed income is subject to employment tax withholding (Social Security and Medicare contributions) but not federal withholding.