EX-Spouse tax Q...

[Anonymous]

Husband and I separated in May '13. I do my own taxes and just want to confirm my thought around the 'Ex-spouse Net federal income and Net federal income while we lived together...

I will be estimating the net federal income amount based on his 2012 return, as he will not disclose his income to me. I don't imagine there is much difference between 12 & 13 tax years with income, is this OK to estimate?

thanks...

[strongmommy]

Hi there - estimating income is fine based on prior yr.

The impact of his income up to the date of separation is used to determine eligibility for various credits like HST and child tax benefits (just like when you were together). Post separation only your income counts for this purpose.

Credits like the 'equivalent to spouse' can be used by BOTH of you in the year of separation (if more than one child) but only one of you can claim the kids under 18 amounts (can't split between kids). Fitness/art and child care expenses claimed by person who paid them post separation up to the max allowed. Prior to separation use the normal rules.

Let me know if there is anything else ....

[Anonymous]

Awesome, thank you thank you !!!!