Divorce is more than a legal process — it’s a life-altering financial event. As a wealth manager who has guided clients through countless transitions, I’ve seen how divorce impacts women uniquely — emotionally, legally, and especially financially.
This article is written from my own experience advising women through divorce at Manna Wealth Management. Whether you initiated the divorce or not, I want to help you gain clarity, confidence, and control over your financial future.
The Unique Financial Challenges Women Face in Divorce
Women often face several financial hurdles during and after divorce, especially if they’ve taken time off to raise children or were not the primary earner.
Common Challenges I See:
- Unfamiliarity with the household finances
- Loss of dual income
- Need for long-term support or alimony planning
- Child-related expenses and custody considerations
- Retirement security concerns
Let me be clear: divorce doesn’t have to derail your future — but it does require smart, proactive planning.
Step 1: Get Organized Financially
Before making any major decisions, gather your full financial picture. This includes:
- Bank account statements
- Investment accounts
- Mortgage and property documents
- Retirement account balances
- Tax returns (at least 3 years)
- Debts: credit cards, student loans, business loans
At Manna Wealth Management, I help clients sort through the numbers — even when the paperwork feels overwhelming.
Step 2: Understand What You’re Entitled To
Dividing assets is not always 50/50. Depending on your state and specific circumstances, you may be entitled to:
- A portion of retirement accounts
- Spousal support (alimony)
- Business valuation if your spouse owns a company
- Marital home equity
- Health insurance continuation (COBRA or alternatives)
One client I worked with in Coral Gables was unaware that she could claim a share of her ex-husband’s 401(k) through a Qualified Domestic Relations Order (QDRO). That decision added nearly $400,000 to her retirement nest egg.
Step 3: Build a Post-Divorce Budget
Once the divorce is finalized, it’s critical to reassess your financial life. You may need to:
- Downsize your home
- Adjust your lifestyle temporarily
- Create an emergency fund
- Build new income sources
- Update insurance and estate plans
We created a custom cash flow plan for a client in Boca Raton after her divorce — helping her preserve her investment assets while living comfortably and funding her daughter’s education.
Step 4: Rebuild Your Financial Life with Intention
Divorce can feel like an ending, but it’s also a beginning. You now have full control over your financial future. This is the time to:
- Open accounts in your name only
- Rebuild your credit if it was tied to your ex-spouse
- Start a new investment strategy that reflects your goals
- Update your estate plan, will, and beneficiaries
This isn’t just about survival — it’s about building something stronger. I’ve seen countless women use this chapter to reclaim their independence, grow their wealth, and take full control of their financial destinies.
FAQs: Divorce and Women’s Financial Planning
Q: What should I do first financially if I’m considering divorce?
A: Start by gathering all your financial documents. Knowing where you stand is crucial. From there, speak to a financial advisor and family law attorney early in the process.
Q: How is retirement divided in a divorce?
A: Retirement accounts like 401(k)s and IRAs are typically considered marital assets. A Qualified Domestic Relations Order (QDRO) is required to divide certain accounts without tax penalties.
Q: Will I have enough money to live on after divorce?
A: It depends on your assets, income, and expenses. That’s why we create a post-divorce cash flow analysis and retirement projection at Manna Wealth Management. Our goal is to help you feel secure and supported.
Q: Should I keep the house or sell it?
A: The house may carry emotional weight, but it also comes with maintenance costs, taxes, and liquidity risks. We evaluate whether keeping it is truly in your financial best interest.
Q: Can I claim Social Security from my ex-spouse?
A: Yes, if you were married for 10 years or more and are currently unmarried, you may be eligible to receive Social Security benefits based on your ex-spouse’s earnings record — without reducing their benefits.
Q: I haven’t worked in years. Can I still invest and plan for retirement?
A: Absolutely. Many of my clients re-enter the workforce, start consulting businesses, or grow their wealth through smart investing — regardless of how long they were out of the job market.
Let’s Talk About Your Future — Not Just the Divorce
As hard as divorce can be, it’s also an opportunity to take control of your financial story. I’ve guided countless women — professionals, homemakers, and retirees — through this journey. And I’d be honored to help you navigate yours.
If you need help assessing your financial situation or building your post-divorce wealth strategy, reach out to me personally through my page or schedule a session via Manna Wealth Management.
You’re not alone — and you deserve a financial future you can depend on.
