Pennsylvania residents may be familiar with the gender stereotype of a greedy husband hiding away money to prevent his soon-to-be ex-wife from getting her hands on any of it. This outdated assumption is inaccurate and can be potentially disastrous for husbands going through the divorce process who are interested in a fair divorce settlement.
The health concerns for those going through a gray divorce
Many Pennsylvania couples are finding that getting divorced after 50 can be extremely tough when it comes to their health. While health professionals are finding that divorce can lead to some adverse health issues, it can be particularly harder for those over the age of 50, who may already have underlying or existing medical problems.
Protecting a business with a prenuptial agreement
In the past, asking a significant other to sign a prenuptial agreement in Pennsylvania was often looked down upon. However, as more and more people are waiting to get married, the stigma surrounding prenuptial agreements has begun to dissipate. This is particularly true for people who started businesses before tying the knot.
Debt can put pressure on a marriage
Married couples in Pennsylvania who have student loan debt may at a higher risk of getting divorced. The average student loan balance has increased 62% over the past decade to $34,000. Furthermore, the number of people who owe more than $50,000 in student loan debts has also increased significantly.
Expert witnesses helpful in Pennsylvania divorces
Many Pennsylvania spouses who are going through a divorce are anxious about the process and have no idea what to expect. It's important to remember that each divorcing couple's circumstances are different. Small details can mean the difference between a smooth, amicable separation and a lengthy, contentious battle. Generally, the most complicated divorces involve couples who have a high-net worth, own a business or have fundamental disagreements regarding custody of the children.
Planning for taxes after divorce
Pennsylvania parents who decide to divorce may consider many factors relating to how the end of the marriage might affect the parent-child relationship. From child custody and visitation to negotiating an amicable co-parenting framework, divorcing parents do a great deal of work to prepare for their future. One issue that people may not consider immediately is how the divorce might change their tax filings.
Red flags for hidden money during a divorce
When a marriage in Pennsylvania begins to hit rocky waters, financial secrets can begin to grow. Some of these hidden finances can be especially troubling during a divorce, where they may originate as an attempt to deny a spouse his or her fair share of marital property. While many people are able to end their marriages without recriminations or schemes, it is important for individuals going through a more high-conflict divorce to be aware of red flags that could point to hidden funds or other financial secrets.
The role of money in a divorce
Pennsylvania residents who are married for the first time have a roughly 50/50 chance that it will last forever. The odds of success are lower for second and subsequent marriages. However, there may be compelling financial reasons to avoid a divorce if possible. For instance, married couples who own a home will need to figure out what to do with it. While a person could keep the home, it can be hard to maintain it on one income.
Managing divorce with new tax rules in mind
Starting at the beginning of 2019, couples filing for divorce in Pennsylvania and throughout the rest of the United States will have to do so with tax rule changes in mind, particularly if spousal support will be involved. This is happening because the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) changes how alimony is handled for tax purposes. Under the new law, alimony will not be tax-deductible for the payor, and the recipient won't be required to report it as taxable income.
When financial deceit threatens your future
Nearly all spouses keep some kind of financial secrets from their partners. This deception may be something small like a splurge at the mall or something embarrassing like credit card debt. In some cases, however, a spouse may hide income, assets or spending habits that may affect the welfare of the family or the level of trust the couple shares.
