Is this considered "income"?

I don't know if anyone can answer this, but here goes. I will try to make it short and sweet!

I left my ex-husband in July 2010. For the next 14 months, I camped out at my parents' house in between visits to England. (from July 2010 to September 2011).

I moved here (England) in September 2011 on a fiancee visa. We were married in October.

I have not worked since leaving my ex. However, my ex-husband is paying me monthly installments, (NOT alimony), but as part of our property settlement. Last year, I received approximately $16,000 from him.  He is court-ordered to continue making monthly payments to me for the next 2 years.

Two questions:

1. Is this considered "income" for tax filing purposes?

2. Can I file "single" even though I am married? (I know I could do this if married to a USC. I just thought, if I am able to do this being married to a UKC, I would, as it would be infinitely easier paperwork-wise.)

Thank you!

Don't know about 1, but you can't file as single if you are married. You can file as married filing separately so that none of your husband's income needs to be included.

Ah, yes that is what I meant  - "married filing separately". I know that's not what I said, but that is what was in my head. LOL!!  Don't people read minds, anymore? HEE!  Thank you, DrSuperL99.

Alimony is tax deductibke to the payor. Aliminy received in the UK is tax free under the US/UK tax treaty.

So if the court agrees your ex could have a tax deduction and you could have tax free income.

This does not sound like what you agreed. You may want to ask your attorney if they looked at the advantages of using the tax  treaty in agreeing your award.

No, that was not the case. My ex didn't even know I was moving to the UK at the time. It is not alimony, just a property settlement.

Hello Fallgal,
No gain or loss is recognized on property settlements and transfers between spouses or former spouses. Transfers are considered incident to divorce if they are made within one year after the date the marriage ends "or" made under an original or modified divorce or separation agreement within six years after the date the marriage ends.

Your US filing status in 2011 is either married filing jointly or married filing separately. Your husband may join your US tax return by election. In addition, he'll need to file for an ITIN. There may be tax advantages to filing jointly as compared to filing separately. You'll need to make that determination in consultation with your US tax professional. I hope this helps.

Thank you all very much for your help. It is very much appreciated.