Divorce isn’t simply an emotionally draining experience; it often brings with it a whirlwind of financial complexities. From the division of assets to adjusting your lifestyle, the aftermath of a divorce demands careful attention to your finances.
An economic study done on divorcees showed that the standards of living dropped by 45% among women and 21% among men after a divorce. This shows how financially draining a divorce can be. (1)
Despite this, the road to financial recovery is attainable. You can build a secure and independent financial future by proactively managing your assets and taking strategic steps. This article will discuss key aspects of post-divorce asset management, from dealing with complex assets like stocks to revisiting your retirement plan and protecting your credit score.
Think of this guide as a navigational tool to help you confidently move toward financial stability and success.
- Valuing and Dividing Stocks
Stocks present a challenging process during a divorce. While selling and dividing the stocks can seem easy, there are some complexities such as tax implications. Moreover, a spouse may want to keep their stock private. As such, valuing and dividing the stocks for divorce requires seeking the expertise of a financial advisor or a forensic accountant.
These professionals can accurately assess the stocks’ values and advise on the best way to divide them. This can include strategies such as an outright sale and division of the proceeds, or one party may retain the shares while the other receives assets of equivalent value.
The best approach will depend on various factors, including your individual financial goals and the tax implications of each option. Consulting with tax and legal professionals will help you make informed decisions that protect your financial interests.
- Rebalancing Your Investment Portfolio
After a divorce, your risk tolerance, financial goals, and overall circumstances are likely different. Hence, it’s essential to reassess your investment portfolio and realign it with your new reality. A financial advisor can provide tailored guidance and help you create a diversified portfolio that suits your needs. They can assist you in identifying appropriate investment vehicles that cater to your current risk profile.
Remember, diversification is a powerful risk management tool. Spreading your investments across different asset classes can help mitigate potential losses. A well-diversified portfolio can offer greater stability and facilitate long-term financial growth.
- Revisiting Your Retirement Planning
Divorce can derail even the most carefully constructed retirement plans. It’s crucial to reevaluate your strategy and make necessary adjustments.
When married, couples tend to make their retirement plans together, including combining finances. However, statistics show that about 43% of adults aged 55 to 64 who ever married had divorced. As such, reaching retirement age with a joint savings or investment portfolio can be challenging. (2)
Consider increasing your retirement contributions, especially if your savings faced a setback during the separation. If eligible, you might be able to obtain a portion of your ex-spouse’s retirement savings through a Qualified Domestic Relations Order (QDRO), a court order to divide certain retirement assets.
Explore all available options and seek guidance from a financial advisor or retirement specialist. They can help you determine the optimal ways to bolster your retirement nest egg and ensure long-term financial security.
- Creating a Post-Divorce Budget
Developing a realistic post-divorce budget is essential. Begin by meticulously listing all your sources of income, including wages, spousal support, or child support, and clearly outlining all your recurring bills and other expenditures.
Afterwards, identify opportunities to reduce spending and create a balanced budget that reflects your current financial circumstances. Adopting a mindful approach to budgeting will help you stay on track, avoid unnecessary debts, and build a solid financial foundation.
- Protecting Your Credit Score
Divorce proceedings can sometimes lead to missed payments or other financial hiccups that negatively impact your credit score. Take proactive steps to safeguard your creditworthiness. Prioritize timely bill payments and aim to keep your credit card balances low. Remember, your payment history makes up to 35% of your Fair Isaac Corporation (FICO) score, while a credit utilization ratio of under 10% will boost your credit score. (3)
It’s important to note that a good credit score can open doors to favorable loan terms and lower interest rates. Regularly monitor your credit report and promptly dispute any errors you find. Staying on top of your credit will help you maintain a strong financial reputation, which is crucial as you embark on a new chapter post-divorce.
Conclusion
While the financial consequences of divorce can feel overwhelming, know that rebuilding your financial life is possible. Prioritize the equitable division of assets, create a realistic budget, and proactively manage your finances. Seek professional guidance whenever needed and remain focused on your long-term financial well-being. With perseverance and informed action, you can overcome challenges and achieve financial independence.
References:
- ‘The Financial Impact of Divorce,’ Source: https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbesfinancecouncil/2022/10/20/the-financial-impact-of-divorce/?sh=426bc6219e52#:~:text=The%20average%20cost%20of%20a%20divorce,ties%2C%20often%20requiring%20family%20counseling%20services
- ‘Marriage, Divorce, Widowhood Remain Prevalent Among Older Populations,’ Source: https://www.census.gov/library/stories/2021/04/love-and-loss-among-older-adults.html#:~:text=person%20they%20wed.-,Divorce,who%20ever%20divorced%20is%20much%20higher%3A%20about%2043%25%20for%20both%20sexes.,-Although%20significantly%20lower
- ‘Does Divorce Hurt Your Credit?’ Source: https://money.usnews.com/credit-cards/articles/does-divorce-hurt-your-credit#:~:text=Ways%20to%20Build,impact%20your%20score
