Top Three Financial Strategies for Planning Your Divorce

Scott Coopersmith |

Divorce is overwhelming. With emotions running high and major financial decisions on the table, it’s easy to lose clarity. That’s why having a plan—and the right support—is essential. Here are three key financial strategies to help you move forward with confidence.

1. Build the Right Team

Divorce is about money—and the team you choose can make or break your outcome. The right team often includes a Certified Divorce Financial Analyst® (CDFA®), a divorce attorney, a therapist, and possibly a divorce coach. Each plays a unique role in helping you make informed, rational decisions. The wrong team—or missing key players—can derail your process and lead to costly mistakes. A CDFA® ensures you’re financially prepared and organized before legal negotiations begin.

2. Be Prepared

Divorce is the unwinding of a financial partnership. You are now the CEO of your financial future, and that means having a clear plan and staying organized.

Start with the Four K’s and Two B’s:

  • Know what you need
  • Know what you want
  • Know your end goal
  • Know what you want out of your settlement
  • Be prepared to compromise
  • Big picture—don’t get stuck in the weeds

Being prepared means gathering your financial documents, understanding your expenses, and identifying your priorities. It also means being emotionally ready to make decisions based on logic, not fear or frustration. Being prepared and organized will empower you to make clear-headed decisions and advocate for yourself with confidence.

3. Think Long-Term During Negotiations

Divorce negotiations aren’t just about what you need today—they’re about protecting your future. Every decision you make now will have long-term consequences, so it’s essential to slow down, avoid snap decisions, and carefully weigh the pros and cons of each option.

Ask yourself:

  • Will this settlement support me five or ten years from now?
  • What are the tax implications?
  • Can I afford future expenses like college, retirement, or a new home?
  • Will I need to renegotiate anything later?

The goal is to include as much as possible in the agreement now, so you don’t have to revisit unresolved issues down the road. A CDFA® can help you model different scenarios and ensure your settlement is comprehensive, forward-thinking, and built to last.

Final Thought:  Divorce is tough, but with the right financial strategies and support, you can move forward with confidence and clarity.