Dealing with divorce

Divorce can strain finances as well as emotions. But with some preparation and financial planning during and after divorce, you can protect your financial interests and take charge of your future well-being.

Get your immediate finances in order

If you and your spouse agree on most issues, an uncontested divorce may help you avoid costly legal fees. If you need an attorney, preparing in advance can save time and money. Either way, you'll want to make sure your immediate finances are in order.

Some steps to take before your divorce

• Prepare a budget to follow until your divorce is final. Talk to an advisor about financial planning in and after divorce.
• Compile monthly bank statements; make copies for your attorney.
• Locate all tax returns filed jointly or separately and make copies.
• Make sure all taxes have been paid to date.
• Check any safe-deposit boxes.
• Avoid large purchases that may cause financial complications.
• Don't move out before consulting your attorney.
• Don't transfer or give away jointly owned assets.
• Never sign any document until your attorney reviews it.

Assess your current and post-divorce financial situation

Look ahead, not back. Rework your long-term goals. This can help you plan for the future while you manage your daily needs.

• List income and expenses you'll have once you are divorced. Do you earn enough to support yourself and your family?
• Identify your assets. Make a list of all your assets, their value and whether they are owned jointly or separately. Which assets do you really want and which ones are you willing to let your spouse keep?
• Deal with liabilities. Will you be able to pay outstanding debt on the assets you keep? Assess your and your spouse's liabilities and obtain credit reports.
• Know the employee benefits that you and your spouse are entitled to, as well as the life, health, and disability insurance policies that you both own through your employers. If you have children, whose health insurance plan will be used to cover them?
• Consider child or spousal support. Will you be paying or receiving child support or spousal support?

Other financial considerations during a divorce

Going through a divorce requires you to examine your entire financial life. Your attorney, tax professional or financial advisor can help you work through any other financial questions that may come up:

• Should any beneficiaries change on your life insurance policies, investments, wills, etc.?
• Will the divorce decree provide a payout? If so, will a qualified domestic relations order (QDRO) be used?
• What are the tax consequences of support you may provide or receive, such as spousal or child support?
• How will you handle your tax return, depending on the timing of your divorce?
• Will your home be transferred to either spouse as part of the settlement?

How we can help with financial planning in divorce

Life can change at any time. Our approach to financial planning in divorce is expressly designed to adapt to evolving needs. An Ameriprise financial advisor can help you with the complex financial decisions you face during a divorce and plan for your future goals.