Money Moves to Make Before, During, and After Divorce

Divorce is never easy, emotionally or financially. As a firm that has advised clients through life’s most challenging transitions, we can tell you this: the financial decisions you make during this time can shape your future for years to come. But with a level head and the right plan, you can protect what matters most and move forward with clarity and confidence.
Whether you’re just beginning the process, in the thick of it, or turning the page on a new chapter, here are some smart money moves to consider:

Before Divorce: Get Organized

1. Gather and Organize Financial Records: Start with the basics: tax returns, bank statements, retirement accounts, credit card bills, mortgage and loan documents. The more thorough your documentation, the better prepared you’ll be for honest negotiations.
2.  Understand Your Full Financial Picture: Know what you own and what you owe. Assets, liabilities, income, expenses—it’s time to map it all out. A clear view now avoids surprises later.
3. Get a Team in Place: Work with a divorce attorney who understands your goals, and lean on a financial advisor who can help you model outcomes, minimize taxes, and ensure long-term sustainability.

During Divorce: Stay Focused on the Long Game

1. Don’t Let Emotions Drive Financial Decisions: We get it—money is emotional, and so is divorce. But giving up long-term security for short-term peace isn’t always wise. Approach settlement decisions with logic and a long-term perspective.
2. Plan for Life After Divorce: Will you be keeping the house? Will you need to go back to work? Will spousal support affect your tax situation? Use this time to build a realistic post-divorce budget and cash flow strategy.
3. Mind the Retirement Accounts: Splitting IRAs, 401(k)s, and pensions often requires a Qualified Domestic Relations Order (QDRO). Done wrong, it can trigger taxes or penalties. Done right, it preserves your future.

After Divorce: Rebuild and Reimagine

1. Retitle Assets and Update Beneficiaries: Make sure your accounts, trusts, and insurance policies reflect your new reality. Too many people forget to remove a former spouse from important documents—don’t be one of them.
2. Rebuild Your Financial Plan: Your priorities may have shifted. Whether it’s funding your children’s education, catching up on retirement, or buying a new home, let’s reassess and chart a fresh course.
3. Invest in Your Independence: Financial independence means different things to different people. We’ll work together to define what it means for you, and create a plan to get there—step by step.

Divorce may feel like the end of something—but it’s also the beginning of something new. With the right mindset and guidance, you can turn uncertainty into empowerment. Take it one step at a time, and remember, you don’t have to do it alone.
If you’re preparing for or currently navigating a divorce, I invite you to schedule a confidential conversation to explore how we can align your financial strategy with your goals for the future.
Securities and advisory services offered through Packerland Brokerage Services, Inc., an unaffiliated entity. Member FINRA & SIPC

About the Author:

Tyler Baer is a Financial Advisor with Grand Traverse Financial. He is dedicated to helping individuals and families build clear, personalized strategies for long-term financial well-being. Tyler is especially passionate about guiding clients through life transitions such as divorce with clear strategic advice and confidence.

📩 Want to connect with Tyler? Reach out at tyler@gtfinancial.biz or call (303) 525-6997 to schedule a consultation. Schedule Online Here