Divorced in 2016. how to handle joint deductible expenses on individual returns?

dcarey3353 · ‎May 31, 2019

How do my ex-wife and I report deductible joint expenses on our individual tax returns in 2016?

Opus 17 · ‎May 31, 2019

For expenses paid before the divorce, you can can divide them in any way that you agree is reasonable. Usually that means whoever actually paid each bill. Or split it 50/50 or 60/40 if one persons income is higher. Specific personal deductions like tuition, state income tax and medical expenses would be claimed by the specific person.

You just don't want to over-claim anything because if the IRS audits you, then they get to decide.

*Answers are correct to the best of my ability at the time of posting but do not constitute legal or tax advice.*

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Opus 17 · ‎May 31, 2019

For expenses paid before the divorce, you can can divide them in any way that you agree is reasonable. Usually that means whoever actually paid each bill. Or split it 50/50 or 60/40 if one persons income is higher. Specific personal deductions like tuition, state income tax and medical expenses would be claimed by the specific person.

You just don't want to over-claim anything because if the IRS audits you, then they get to decide.

*Answers are correct to the best of my ability at the time of posting but do not constitute legal or tax advice.*

Divorced in 2016. how to handle joint deductible expenses on individual returns?