Retirement and Divorce: Protecting Your Finances When Marital Bliss Turns Sour

Six steps to take as you negotiate a “gray divorce” that can help defend the financial future you’ve worked so hard to achieve.

A man puckers up his face as if tasting something sour.
(Image credit: Getty Images)

It’s a phenomenon that’s becoming more common. Older couples with decades of marriage behind them discover that they’re no longer compatible and they decide to divorce, a move that can wreak havoc on retirement plans.

Unfortunately, while many of these over-50 people think they somehow are going to win in a divorce, they soon learn it’s more likely that financial trouble lies ahead.

That’s why it’s critical to understand the potential repercussions of so-called “gray divorce” so you can be prepared for what’s coming, and aren’t ambushed by the realization that your retirement dreams may need to be recalculated.

A few things to do or to keep in mind if you are headed toward a gray divorce include:

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The appearances in Kiplinger were obtained through a PR program. The columnist received assistance from a public relations firm in preparing this piece for submission to Kiplinger.com. Kiplinger was not compensated in any way.

Disclaimer

This article was written by and presents the views of our contributing adviser, not the Kiplinger editorial staff. You can check adviser records with the SEC or with FINRA.

Kristian L. Finfrock, Investment Adviser
Founder, Retirement Income Strategies

Kristian L. Finfrock is the founder of and a financial adviser at Retirement Income Strategies. He is an Investment Adviser Representative of Kalos Capital and a licensed insurance professional. He resides in Evansville, Wisconsin, with his two daughters.