Understanding New Federal Tax Law: The Implications and Alimony

With the onset of the new tax law regarding alimony, couples are expected to go through more rigorous processes while seeking a divorce. This practice renders spouses paying for support eligible for a tax deduction, while the one receiving support pays taxes according to their personal income bracket. Law professionals ensure the public that the new law is designed to help couples save more money during the divorce process, thereby allowing the transitions to come easier.

Unfortunately, experts argue that this new federal tax law on alimony will also widen the problem—the spouse with the higher income will be at a disadvantage, making the process of divorce even more difficult.

Understanding the Implications

1 – Ineligibility for tax deductions

Under the new law, the spouse paying alimony will now be ineligible for tax deductions, while the receiving spouse will no longer need to pay tax on the payment. While it may seem like a good thing for the receiving party, the total money available for both parties will decrease. Not only does the new law affect couples, but it will also affect the children in need of support.

2 – Lack of contributions towards the IRA

Should the spouse be unemployed, the new law will take away their opportunity to make contributions towards the IRA. Without the tax payment on the alimony, eligibility for a retirement saving plan will be non-existent

3 – Changes in the number of divorce cases going to court

Due to the current financial pressure and circumstance, couples seeking peace through a divorce will be at a great disadvantage. The settlement will be elusive, and both parties will be forced to shell out money towards attorney fees. The entire process becomes even more complicated and leaves both parties with less at the end.

How much will you be paying for alimony under the new federal tax law?

If your spouse is financially dependent during your marriage, you will need to pay alimony after the divorce. The circumstances aren’t always clear, however, as alimony does not function like child support—there are certain factors that come into play, such as the capability to pay, earning capacities and even the age and health of the couple. According to N.J.S.A. 2A:34-23(b), however, there are factors that need to be considered in determining alimony allocation. Here are some of the most compelling factors:

Whether parties are able to pay
How long the couple was married
Where each party stands in terms of age, physical and emotional health
How the couple lived while they were married and how likely they are to continue living at a comparable standard of living post-separation
Where each party stands in terms of earning capacities, educational levels, vocational skills and employability
Whether a party was absent from the job market for a time
Who is responsible for any dependents
Whether one or both parties hold other assets or receive passive income
How any alimony awards may affect either party’s tax situation

Enlist the Help of A Divorce Attorney

The law itself is complicated enough. Throw in a few major changes, and the effects of misinterpretation can be detrimental. Divorce can already be a tumultuous process. As an emotionally draining period, financial pressures can make settlements almost impossible to accomplish. If you’re going through a divorce and wish to navigate the waters with help, seek the help of an attorney.

If you’re on the hunt for a divorce attorney in Hackensack, Tomasella and Vacca, L.L.C are ready to help. As a team dedicated to family law, we ensure that our services cater to the needs of each client. Every case is different, so we approach each issue with solutions that are both practical and realistic. With that, we come up with strong cases that fight for your needs. For more information, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team.