Can I deduct the money my ex wife receives from my pension after I retired

Rod

Up until last year I was paying her spousal support. I did take the deduction for those payments.

Our divorce was finalized in 2016 to add context to my question

Rod

That's not what I wanted to hear lol but thank you for clarification

LeahB

Great question, Rod! While the spousal support can be deducted in certain circumstances, amounts paid from a retirement plan are not deductible. This is because the amount is generally treated as if the recipient were a plan participant as well.

Reference page 17 "Qualified Domestic Relations Order": Publication 504 Divorced or Separated Individuals

Hope this helps!