Note: The editors of Kiplinger's Personal Finance magazine and the Kiplinger Tax Letter are answering questions about the new tax law from subscribers to our free Kiplinger Today daily email. See other reader Q&As about the new tax law, or submit your own question.
Question: I understand the new tax law reverses the rules for alimony, so that the payer no longer gets to deduct payments and the recipient no longer has to pay tax on alimony received. I was divorced in 2016. Does this mean the alimony payments I get are tax-free from now on?
Answer: No. The new rule does not go into effect until 2019, and only for divorces executed or modified after 2018. For divorces after December 31, 2018, alimony payments are no longer deductible nor must the recipient declare the amount as taxable income. The law specifically permits ex-spouses to modify an earlier divorce agreement to adopt the new rule after it goes into effect in 2019. Of course, both you and your ex would have to agree to such a change. If a pre-2019 divorce is not modified, the old rules apply: the payer can deduct payments and the recipient must pay tax on them.
Sign up for Kiplinger’s Free E-Newsletters
Profit and prosper with the best of expert advice on investing, taxes, retirement, personal finance and more - straight to your e-mail.
Profit and prosper with the best of expert advice - straight to your e-mail.
-
Stock Market Today: Stocks Slip for a Second Straight DaySolid earnings but mixed guidance amid more tariff uncertainty have markets searching for direction.
-
How to Get Your Finances Back on Track After a DivorceTaking charge of your money after a divorce will feel daunting, especially when you're faced with a lower income. The key is tackling your to-do list in stages.
-
‘My Etsy Shop is Dead’: Vendors Cry for Help Amid Trump’s TariffsTariffs Small businesses are struggling to thrive as they absorb the Trump administration’s new wave of tariffs.
-
Three Things Star Wars Fans Taught Me About TaxTax Tips May the force be with you and your taxes this Star Wars Day 2025.
-
Retirees: Don’t Miss These Valuable State Tax Breaks in 2025Retirement Planning Selecting the right state for retirement can significantly impact your financial well-being.
-
10 Cheapest Places To Live in FloridaProperty Tax Make your Florida vacation spot a place for daily living — these counties have the lowest property tax bills in the state.
-
Missed Tax Day? Nearly One Million Taxpayers Still Can File and Claim Valuable Tax RefundsTax Refunds As many as one million taxpayers could be missing out on a significant tax refund.
-
Which Generation Pays the Most Tax in the US?Tax Burden Polls show that most people feel like taxes are unfair. But which age group bears the brunt of the tax burden in the United States?
-
Tax Day 2025: Don’t Miss These Freebies, Food Deals and DiscountsTax Day You can score some sweet deals on April 15 in some select restaurants like Burger King, Shake Shack, and more.
-
Tax Time: Does Your Kid Influencer Owe Taxes?State Tax Some minors are making big money on social media. Here’s how to know if they need to file taxes.
