At the height of a relationship, it is often difficult for a couple to consider that someday, things may end up going south. However, remaining pragmatic about the future of a relationship is in everyone’s best interests.
The more pragmatic individuals are, the more they can plan for the possibility of a split. This can allow for a simple and clean way to handle assets during a marriage, and even during a divorce.
Prenups and postnups
The Christian Science Monitor looks into the matter of what to do with marital assets while a couple remains together. This is where pre-nuptials or post-nuptials come in handy. Both handle the same subject matter, but pre-nuptials happen before a marriage while post-nuptials happen after.
In either case, it allows for a couple to determine which of their assets they will not bring into the equation in the event of a divorce. In other words, it allows couples to divide their assets into separate property and marital property. In a divorce, separate property is not up for division. Marital property, owned by both spouses, does get divided.
Discussing budgets and finances openly
It also helps to create a shared household budget. Discuss matters of finances as if all assets exist in one pool, which can help for ease of budgeting and with tax matters later. It can also help a couple figure out tax liabilities and who will handle matters of debt.
Finally, talk openly and clearly about finances. Couples should always ensure they stand on the same page regarding financial matters. This is the best way to avoid potential misunderstandings and expensive mistakes later down the line.
