Tax Filing Status: How will it change with divorce?
When you and your spouse decide to utilize a collaborative divorce approach, both of you will have access to neutral financial mediators.
Financial mediators can help prepare schedules that project cash flows, net worth, and the tax effects of your proposed settlements.
They are often asked these 3 tax questions:
- How should I file my taxes?
Filings are based on your marital status as of the last day of the tax year.
If you are unmarried, your filing status is:
- Single, or
- If you meet specific requirements, Head of Household
If you are still married, the filing status is, married filing:
- Jointly or
- Separately
- Can I file as head of household?
Yes, if the taxpayer is:
- Unmarried or “considered unmarried” on the last day of the year,
- Paid more than half the cost of keeping up a home for the year, and
- Had a “qualifying person” live with them in their home for more than half the year (except for temporary absences, such as school).
- What qualifies a taxpayer to be Unmarried?
The taxpayer is considered unmarried, if they meet ALL of these requirements, as of December 31:
- They are submitting a separate return;
- Paid more than half the cost of keeping up their home for the tax year;
- Their spouse did not live in their home during the last 6 months of the tax year; and
- Their home was, for more than half the year, the main house of their child, stepchild, adopted child, or foster child whom you could claim as a dependent
When you become divorced, your taxes can take on a life of their own!
At Peace Talks, our team has the experience and expertise to provide complete and accurate financial information. We will work effectively with you, your attorneys, and other professionals to accomplish your goals in a collaborative environment.
Note: This information is general in nature and should not be construed as legal/financial/tax advice. You should work with your attorney, financial, or tax professional to determine what will work best for your situation.