MooneyOnMoney.com

Lifestyle Read Time: 3 min

A House Divided

The latest research suggests that divorce rates in the U.S. have been falling in recent decades. Still, many people face the difficult crossroads that comes when their marriage ends.1

Getting a divorce is often a painful, emotional process. Don’t be in such a hurry to reach a settlement that you make poor decisions that can have life-long consequences. If divorce is a possibility, here are a few financial ideas that may help you prepare.

The most important task you can do is get your finances organized. Identify all your assets and make copies of important financial papers, such as deeds, tax returns, and investment records. When it comes to dividing up your assets, consider mediation as a low-cost alternative to litigation. Most states have equitable-distribution laws that require shared assets to be divided 50/50 anyway. When a divorce becomes contentious, attorney’s fees can accumulate.

From a financial perspective, divorce means taking all the income previously used to run one household and stretching it out over two residences, two utility bills, two grocery lists, etc. There are other hidden costs as well, such as counseling for you or your children. Divorces also may require incurring one-time fees, such as a security deposit on a rental property, moving costs, or increased child care.

Finally, dividing assets may sound simple, but it can be quite complex. The forced sale of a home or investment portfolio may have tax consequences. Potential tax liability also can make two seemingly equal assets have varying net values. Additionally, when pulling apart a portfolio, it makes sense to consider how each asset will suit the prospective recipient in terms of risk tolerance and liquidity.

Remember, the information in this article is not intended as tax or legal advice. Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation.

During a divorce, many factors compete for attention. By understanding a few key concepts, you may be able to avoid making costly financial mistakes.

1. CDC.gov, 2022

The content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The information in this material is not intended as tax or legal advice. It may not be used for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalties. Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation. This material was developed and produced by FMG Suite to provide information on a topic that may be of interest. FMG Suite is not affiliated with the named broker-dealer, state- or SEC-registered investment advisory firm. The opinions expressed and material provided are for general information, and should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security. Copyright FMG Suite.

 

Related Content

Don’t Be Your Own Worst Enemy

Don’t Be Your Own Worst Enemy

Emotional biases can adversely impact financial decision making. Here’s a few to be mindful of.

The Basics of Medicare

The Basics of Medicare

Learn all about Medicare basics in this informative and insightful article.

The Half Million Dollar Baby

The Half Million Dollar Baby

The true cost of raising a child may be far more than you expect.

 

Have A Question About This Topic?







Thank you! Oops!

An Overview of Renter’s Insurance

Don’t overlook the need for renter’s insurance if you rent your home.

Insurance Needs Assessment: Married With Children

When you’re married and have children, insurance needs will be different.

Understanding Marginal Income Tax Brackets

An inside look at how marginal income tax brackets work.

View all articles

Comparing Investments

This calculator compares the net gain of a taxable investment versus a tax-favored one.

What's My Potential Estate Tax?

This calculator helps estimate your federal estate tax liability.

What Is My Life Expectancy?

Estimate how many years you may need retirement assets or how long to provide income to a surviving spouse or children.

View all calculators

Principles of Preserving Wealth

How federal estate taxes work, plus estate management documents and tactics.

5 Smart Investing Strategies

There are some smart strategies that may help you pursue your investment objectives

5 Smart Investing Principles

Principles that can help create a portfolio designed to pursue investment goals.

View all presentations

Making Your Tax Bracket Work

Have you explored all your options when it comes to managing your taxable income?

Retiring the 4% Rule

A portfolio created with your long-term objectives in mind is crucial as you pursue your dream retirement.

It May Be Time for a Financial Checkup

It’s never a bad time to speak with your financial professional about changes in your situation.

View all videos