@MichaelEgan007 --
Why not apply to DFAS to have your share of your former spouse's military retirement paid directly to you? It seems like that would greatly simplify things for both you and your former spouse. It would certainly clarify your tax situation.
You apply by filing DD Form DD2293. Here's a link to the form and its instructions:
https://www.esd.whs.mil/Portals/54/Documents/DD/forms/dd/dd2293.pdf
You'll find more detailed instructions here:
https://www.dfas.mil/garnishment/usfspa/apply/
**Answers are correct to the best of my ability but do not constitute tax or legal advice.
