---
title: Am I Responsible for My Ex's IRS Debt After a Divorce?
url: https://taxtruce.com/answers/divorce-and-irs-debt
updated: 2026-10-29
---

# Am I responsible for my ex's IRS debt after a divorce?

Updated October 8, 20262 sourcesTaxTruce team[Fact checked](/editorial-standards)

The short answer

For joint returns, yes, both of you are responsible, even if the divorce decree says otherwise. Innocent spouse relief or separation of liability may help. Ask within 2 years of the first IRS notice about the error.

## Words to know

[Innocent spouse relief](/glossary)
:   Relief from tax your spouse caused on a joint return, if you didn't know about the errors.

[Separation of liability](/glossary)
:   Relief that splits extra tax on a joint return so you pay only your share. You must be divorced, separated or living apart.

## Sources

1. [IRS: Innocent spouse relief](https://www.irs.gov/individuals/innocent-spouse-relief)
2. [IRS: Separation of liability relief](https://www.irs.gov/individuals/separation-of-liability-relief)

Run the numbers with our [free tax tools](/tools), like the penalty and payment plan math.