You have decided that a divorce is the right option for you, because you and your spouse just don’t get along. Every time they come home, you feel anxious about how they’re going to treat you and how you’re going to get through the night. Everything is a conflict, and you’re exhausted.
The problem you’re running into is that you don’t have the financial support to divorce your spouse yet. You work, but everything goes into a shared account. What can you do?
Going through a divorce can be stressful financially, but there are some things you can do to prepare. Here are three ideas that could help you be financially prepared for divorce.
Open a credit card in your name
The first thing to consider is opening a credit card in your name. Having this on hand will make it easier for you to pull funds if you have a week or two where you’re waiting for a paycheck or need extra financial support.
Open your own bank account in only your name
Another thing to do is to open your bank account in your name alone. You can ask your employer to send your future paychecks there and stop sending your money into the shared account with your spouse. If you don’t want to do this all at once, you can also ask your employer to send only a certain amount, like $100 a paycheck, to that account as a way of saving.
Pay ahead on new living arrangements
Finally, consider paying ahead on new living arrangements. Whether using credit, a personal loan or your own savings from your paychecks, consider paying ahead on the new living arrangements before you leave the home or tell your spouse you want a divorce. This will minimize your stress in the first few weeks after you separate (if you plan to leave the home).
These are three ideas to help you with your financial situation before and after your divorce. Preparing for a divorce will help you have the financial support you need so you can move forward independently.