How does disability affect divorce?

How does disability affect divorce?

Supplemental Security Income (SSI) Since SSI is a needs-based program, an individual’s benefits may actually increase upon divorce,depending upon the division of property and alimony payments. SSI payments cannot be garnished for the purpose of alimony or child support.

Are disability payments marital property?

SSDI and SSI benefits are awarded special protection from certain civil proceedings under the Social Security Act (“Act”). The Act states that disability benefits are not subject to “levy or attachment.” The majority of state courts have interpreted this to mean that SSDI benefits are not marital property.

Is Social Security Disability divisible in divorce?

Under federal law, Social Security benefits may not be divided as community or marital property upon divorce. Unlike other assets, a person does not “buy” Social Security benefits or otherwise acquire them in a transaction.

Are my disability benefits separate property or marital property?

In California, the state’s Supreme Court has determined that retirement pay based on disability has two components: (a) compensation for loss of earning power and personal suffering, and (b) retirement support. Generally, disability benefits are not marital property and retirement benefits are marital property.

Is my ex wife entitled to my Social Security disability?

If you are divorced, your ex-spouse can receive benefits based on your record (even if you have remarried) if: Your marriage lasted 10 years or longer. Your ex-spouse is unmarried. You are entitled to Social Security retirement or disability benefits.

Can a spouse be held responsible for debt?

Since California is a community property state, the law applies that the community estate shared between both individuals is liable for a debt incurred by either spouse during the marriage. All community property shared equally between husband and wife can be held liable for repaying the debts of one spouse.

When should you file separately if married?

Filing separately also may be appropriate if one spouse suspects the other of tax evasion. In that case, the innocent spouse should file separately to avoid potential tax liability for the other spouse. This status can also be elected by one spouse if the other refuses to file a tax return at all.

What qualifies for innocent spouse relief?

You must meet all of the following conditions to qualify for innocent spouse relief: You filed a joint return that has an understatement of tax that’s solely attributable to your spouse’s erroneous item. An erroneous item includes income received by your spouse but omitted from the joint return.