Here’s a great IRS publication for those who are separated (living in separate households) or divorced: Publication 504 Divorced or Separated Individuals
This overview is from IRS Publication 504′s introduction section:
This publication explains tax rules that apply if you are divorced or separated from your spouse. It covers general filing information and can help you choose your filing status. It also can help you decide which exemptions you are entitled to claim, including exemptions for dependents.
The publication also discusses payments and transfers of property that often occur as a result of divorce and how you must treat them on your tax return. Examples include alimony, child support, other court-ordered payments, property settlements, and transfers of individual retirement arrangements. In addition, this publication also explains deductions allowed for some of the costs of obtaining a divorce and how to handle tax withholding and estimated tax payments.
Author of this post: Carl Arnold, Attorney/Mediator
