Divorce is an emotionally devastating experience in most cases. However, if you are not financially prepared, it can be financially devastating as well. On the other hand, if you are financially prepared, this can take at least a little bit of the stress out of one of the most stressful things you are likely to face in your lifetime. Preparing your finances takes some serious thinking, and, if possible, communication with your soon to be ex. It is harder, but not impossible, however, if you cannot communicate with him or her. How to prepare your finances for a divorce differ as to whether or not you can communicate with your spouse.
If you can communicate with your spouse about finances, and are divorcing amicably, this is best. Preparing your finances will simply mean separating everything into separate accounts and making sure that all assets are split fairly, based on their own financial needs and expenses. Any savings should be split down the middle, or as close as possible, no matter who made the money in the first place, because both parties had an equal share in the marriage. Any future income should be left with the person who makes it, with the possible exception of child support.
If you cannot communicate with your spouse, things get more difficult. You will still need to separate your finances, but it is more difficult without cooperation. In this case, secrecy is needed. You may have to build up savings without the knowledge of your spouse. If you are not working, or are not working at a job that can support you, you may have to find a good job that will support you and your children, if you have them. This level of secrecy is only good when you are in the process of getting ready to leave your spouse, as it can lead to accusations of cheating and unfaithfulness. When you cannot communicate with your spouse, this is also when you are most likely to need a lawyer, so keep this in mind when you are saving.
If you are financially prepared for your divorce, you will find that there is at least a little bit less stress. It is still one of the most stressful events you will have to face in your life, but everything that you can do to relieve that stress will make your life that much easier.