delayed retirement distribution from OPM

[VTUSA]

OPM belatedly and only upon my inquiry acknowledged retirement of exspouse but delayed release of my funds that should have begun when he retired Jan 2023. OPM staff made slow and incomplete replies to inquiries so I needed my senator's office intervene. Then a lump sum back payment was issued and regular dispersals began in July 2024, inflating my 2024 income.  This lump sum impacts my homestead declaration for property tax relief.  Is there a way to mitigate this tax damage?

[SusanY1]

There isn't any way to adjust for it on your federal tax return.  However, you may be able to appeal with the county or city where you pay your property taxes to explain why your income is somewhat inflated for the 2024 tax year.  

That process looks different depending on where you apply for this relief, but I would start with your assessor or auditors department and see if there is anything that can be done about it.