It’s a common question we get as financial professionals: what happens to taxes when a couple decides to part ways?
What Is Your Filing Status Now?
Divorce and separation are emotionally charged events, and the last thing on many minds is the tax implications, and so the first thing on the tax agenda after separation or divorce is determining your filing status.
You’re no longer a couple, so “Married Filing Jointly” is likely off the table. Depending on your specific situation, you’ll have different filing options:
- Single: This is the most common option after separation or divorce. You’ll file your own return, reporting your own income and claiming any deductions or credits you’re eligible for.
- Head of Household: This option can offer tax benefits if you’re financially responsible for a child under 18 or another dependent living with you for at least six months.
- Married Filing Separately: This might be an option if you have significantly different incomes or if one spouse has significant debts or tax liabilities.
Tax Considerations
1. Claiming the Kids
Another major financial aspects of separation are alimony and child support.
Alimony is often taxable for the recipient and deductible for the payer. On the other hand, child support is neither taxable for the recipient nor deductible for the payer. Cooperating with your ex-spouse and communicating about these payments can help both parties plan for their tax responsibilities accurately.
2. Brick & Mortar Break
Then, deciding what to do with the family home is another critical aspect of separation or divorce. If one spouse keeps the home, they might face capital gains taxes when selling it down the road. However, there’s a bright side – the home sale exclusion.
The US tax code allows an exclusion of up to $250,000 in capital gains for a single taxpayer and up to $500,000 for a married couple filing jointly. So, if the house sells within these limits, no capital gains tax is owed. It’s like a tax breather in the midst of significant financial decisions.
3. Dividing the Spoils
Transferring assets between spouses’ incident to divorce is generally a tax-free event, however, selling assets may trigger capital gains or losses, impacting your tax situation.
On the debt side, be aware that the IRS doesn’t care about your divorce decree. If your ex-spouse doesn’t fulfill a joint tax obligation, the IRS can come after you. Knowing the tax consequences of asset and liability division is putting on a financial armor – it protects you in the long run.
4. The Question of Children and Dependency Exemptions
Who gets to claim the kids on their tax return? This question often arises post-divorce or separation. The IRS rules dictate that the custodial parent generally claims the children as dependents. However, divorcing couples can agree otherwise through a written declaration.
This aspect ensures everyone gets a fair share of the tax benefits. It’s essential to communicate and decide what works best for both parents and the children involved.
Tax Credits for Single Parents
Single parents often face unique financial challenges. However, the tax code provides some relief in the form of credits. For example, the Child Tax Credit and the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) can significantly reduce the tax burden for single parents.
Taking advantage of these credits eases the financial strain and helps single parents provide the best for their children.
Navigating separation and divorce isn’t just about tax forms and numbers but about rebuilding your financial life on a new foundation. Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Review your budget and spending habits: Adjust your budget to reflect your new income and expenses. Prioritize needs over wants and avoid impulsive spending.
- Revisit your financial goals: What were your goals before the separation? Are they still relevant? Adjust your goals and investment plans if needed.
- Build your emergency fund: Having a financial cushion is more important than ever now. Aim for at least 3-6 months of living expenses in your emergency fund.
- Seek professional help: Don’t hesitate to seek guidance from financial advisors, tax professionals, and legal experts. They can help you navigate the complexities of your situation and make informed decisions.
We get it; routing this emotional and complex time can be overwhelming, and understanding the financial implications, especially taxes, adds another layer of complexity.
You’ve got this!