San Diego Divorce Attorneys
Helping Men with Tax Issues

Divorce is a process that brings about solutions when it’s over, but it can also bring about several complications that can harm the former husband for years if these complications are not properly planned for and managed before a divorce case is complete.  One of those potential long-term complications involves tax issues that follow a divorce.  If you are considering bringing about an end to your marriage and you want to be sure to limit your potential tax liability, you need to seek the help of experienced San Diego divorce attorneys who understand these laws and nuances.  Below is a brief overview of this issue.

Potential Tax Issues Arising Out of a Divorce

Most married couples file their tax returns jointly in order to maximize their collective benefits and to minimize their potential exposure.  However, when a divorce occurs, this ‘tax entity’ no longer exists and many liabilities can arise because of the new filing status and because of some of the ‘income’ that the federal and state government will see as a result of selling or liquidating marital assets.

Examples of potential tax problems that could arise as a result of a divorce include:

• The structure of spousal support that could be seen as income for the receiving spouse
• The potential for capital gains tax bills arising out of the sale of marital assets
• Tax liability incurred because of past joint tax return filings
• Claims for child care credit
• Claims for head of household deductions
• Deductible attorney fees
• Tax deductions for dependent children

These are only a few possible problems and difficulties that could arise in the year or years ahead after a divorce, as it makes no difference to either the state or the federal government whether married people are now divorced.  If something is seen as income, the governments of both the United States and California will attempt to tax it and collect on any liabilities they feel are due as a result.

How to Avoid Potential Tax Problems Arising from a Divorce

In order to minimize the chance that tax problems will arise as a result of a divorce, you need to meet with San Diego divorce attorneys who have handled these issues many times in the past.  You and your attorneys will need to review your previous tax returns, your current list of assets and any other financial information that could be seen as relevant to tax issues down the road.  This will provide you with an idea of what you’re facing after the divorce is final.

If you want to attempt to protect your financial interests both from your spouse and the government, contact the San Diego divorce attorneys at the Law Offices of Mens Divorce Lawyers immediately to schedule an initial consultation.