Until last week, it has been generally assumed by many lawyers and CPAs that Domestic Partners, duly registered as such in California, may not divide their incomes for tax purposes, although the income may be treated like community property by the state.
In a recent publication from the IRS effective last Friday, that may no longer be true for tax years beginning in 2007. Because of a change in California tax law effective 1/1/07, this state has treated partners' income the same as that of married persons.
A major concern is the effect this may have on returns for the last 3 tax years, and whether amended returns are required or recommended. It does not appear they may file joint returns, however. It would just mean that each may declare one-half of the income of the other, potentially shifting much of the income tax burden to the lower earning partner at much lower tax rates.
If you are dissolving a domestic partnership, it is important that you contact a Certified Family Law Specialist who has knowledge of these rules and keeps up to date on recent changes.
