When you go through a divorce in California, you may be entitled to receive alimony or spousal support. Spousal support in California is determined based on a number of factors. However, if you were married for a long period of time or your spouse was the income earner in your family, you are generally eligible to receive financial support even after the dissolution of your marriage.
When you start to receive the spousal support checks, the money you receive is considered income and is therefore taxable. This makes documenting how much you receive important for your end of year filing.
Equally important is protecting yourself, particularly in a messy divorce. Your ex-husband may allege that you took more than your fair share or received more than the state said you were entitled to, which can harm you if you do not document the checks you receive.
Each time you receive a San Francisco spousal support check, you should document these five things:
- The date and amount received
- The check number or money order number for the payment
- The name of the bank and the account number
- A copy of the check or money order received
- A copy of a receipt for a cash payment
If you are being challenged by your ex, put a San Francisco spousal support attorney on your side to fight back. Contact the Law Offices of Paul H. Nathan for more information about how we can help you keep the money you are entitled to.
