Last updated on April 8, 2021

verified Fact Checked expand_more

To help ensure accuracy, this page was written, edited and is periodically reviewed by a knowledgeable team of legal writers per our editorial guidelines. It was approved for publication by founding attorney Samuel Siemon, who has amassed extensive experience as a Georgia family law attorney. Our last modified date shows when the page underwent a review.

What to keep in mind about alimony tax consequences

Not many things change the face of a financial management plan like a divorce does. There are ways to ease the financial changes, and understanding the Internal Revenue Code requirements for handling or reporting alimony can be helpful, when spousal maintenance is a factor in a divorce settlement.

Generally, property settlements or child support payments are always non-deductible to the payer and non-taxable to the recipient. Alimony is considered differently by the government. Alimony is governed by the Internal Revenue Code, not by court orders or divorce decrees. Therefore, it is typically a tax deduction for the payer and taxable income for the recipient.

If you pay alimony, you can show it on your tax return as a tax deduction, and if you receive alimony, you must report the full amount. Both parties must exchange Social Security numbers or face a penalty, so the likelihood of not reporting the full amount paid or received is less, and if it does occur, can be easily spotted by IRS auditors.

If you want to consider alimony payments for tax reasons, timing is crucial. Legal separation papers or a final divorce decree must be filed prior to any payment of alimony. Any payments made prior to proper documents being filed cannot be included on tax returns.

Many couples considering alimony payments choose a one-time payment. This form of alimony carries specific tax implications and requires careful financial management. Upfront payments of alimony are usually considered part of the overall assets. This type of settlement structure is not taxable for the recipient or tax deductible for the payer

Source: Forbes, “Seven key things women need to know about the tax implications of alimony payments” Nov. 30, 2011

Reach Out To Our Experienced Team For Help With Your Legal Issues

How The Siemon Law Firm Divorce and Family Law Attorneys, P.C. Can Help

Contact our Georgia Family Law Firm by calling 770-888-5120 or by completing this contact form.

An attorney will respond within 24 business hours.

    Fields marked with an * are required

    I Have Read The Disclaimer *

    Our Office Locations

    Cumming, Georgia

    347 Dahlonega St #100,
    Cumming, GA 30040 770-888-5120 Cumming Law Office Map

    Marietta, Georgia

    1850 Parkway Pl Suite 715,
    Marietta, GA 30067 770-888-5312 Marietta Law Office Map

    Alpharetta, Georgia

    4555 Mansell Rd,
    Alpharetta, GA 30022
    770-888-5093 Alpharetta Law Office Map

    Atlanta, Georgia

    3400 Peachtree Rd NE Suite 555,
    Atlanta, GA 30326 770-888-5078 Atlanta Law Office Map