Facing the prospect of divorce can be daunting, especially if you do not feel that you are financially stable enough to be on your own again. However, with some planning and preparation, you can get through the divorce process and find yourself on your own two feet again.
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, California’s divorce rate is slightly lower than the national average, but many professionals agree that there may be a divorce surge coming. Here is how you can prepare if you think divorce may be in your future.
1. Save, save, save
It is always a good idea to be frugal, but especially so when you are planning to divorce. There are a lot of costs associated with the process, including legal fees, and whatever you save now will save you later.
2. Pay off debts, if possible
When you get divorced, your income will essentially divide in half. If you have the ability, it is wise to pay off any debts you have while you still have the means to do so.
3. Cooperate with your spouse
A contentious divorce typically costs more than one where both parties work together. It is not always easy to get along; there is a reason you are divorcing, after all. However, if you can make decisions as a team, you are less likely to end up in a courtroom fighting over every aspect of property division.
If you think you will be divorcing any time soon, now is the time to get your finances in order.
