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Can Separate Bank Accounts Protect Me During a Divorce?

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Rahul kishore
Can Separate Bank Accounts Protect Me During a Divorce?

According to a Bank of America survey, more couples are deciding against using a joint bank account after marriage and opting to keep their finances completely separate instead. Some believe that by having their name solely on the account, they are guaranteed its security. This is a misconception and it’s better not to assume that your assets will remain solely yours after a divorce.

The unfortunate reality is that separate bank accounts won’t automatically protect your money.

A good attorney should be able to argue that any assets acquired by either spouse during the marriage should be considered “marital property” and therefore subject to division. Usually any assets are divided fairly, but not necessarily equally. And sometimes, a judge may decide that one spouse’s separate property should be used to fund a settlement that’s fair to both spouses.

Of course, there are still benefits to having separate accounts even if there is no guarantee it’ll be solely yours by the end of your divorce. One such benefit comes in the form of paying for your expenses while the divorce is proceeding.

At the end of the day, you need to manage your finances in a way that’s comfortable for you. But for all the extra effort it takes to keep finances completely separated, don’t buy into the myth that it will give you more protection if the relationship ends in divorce.

If you are seeking a divorce, Shah & Kishore can help. We are committed to helping our clients achieve a smooth and peaceful separation.

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Rahul kishore
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