As you head into marriage and plan to spend the rest of your life with someone, it might seem wrong to ask yourself "should I get a prenup?"
At the same time, this is an extremely practical question. Just because you're planning for the worst doesn't mean you are asking for it. Considering a prenup doesn't mean that you don't love your partner enough to trust them, either.
There are plenty of good reasons to seriously consider a prenup and we're going to run a few of those ideas by you today.
"Should I Get a Prenup?"
First things first, a prenup isn't a symbolic jab against your partner. A prenup is simply the agreement about whether your property will remain your own or become part of the marital estate. If you're still hazy on what a prenup is, we suggest that you learn more after reading the article.
If it remains yours, you will be entitled to all of it in the case of a separation. If not, it will be divided. Keeping financial matters separate is a good idea in a number of cases.
Keeping Individual Finances Is Often a Good Idea
If you're both stable financially and won't be wholly dependent on the other, it may be a good idea to keep things separate. Finances are often a huge strain on a marriage, and the idea of divorce can sound a lot sweeter if you know you're entitled to a big payout.
It is the unfortunate truth that money changes the way you and your spouse will think about these matters. Further, let's say that one person in the relationship makes significantly more than the other.
A prenup can be used as a test of whether a less-well-off person is marrying another for their money. It can ensure that the relationship is one with integrity.
This is especially true in the case of business owners. Your business is your own, and you may want to keep work finances out of your marriage. Divorce can wreak havoc on your business' stability and success, considering that spouses can claim large portions of its income and appreciation. That alone is an important reason to get a prenuptial agreement.
You Can Benefit Each Other With a Prenup
Let's say that one of you has an exorbitant amount of debt. That $100,000 tab can be kept securely apart from your partner should you divorce. It can even do so when you're not divorced.
This applies to the issue of creditors seeking out payment. Creditors can garnish the money from an individual's estate as well as their marital estate if they have one. So, keeping your debts out of the marital state could very well ensure the financial health of your partner while you're still married. Prenups prevent a lot of these problems.
Does a Prenuptial Agreement Sound Like a Good Idea?
Hopefully, asking yourself "should I get a prenup" isn't quite so scary after reading this article. There are some very good reasons to consider dealing with your finances in advance of the marriage in case of divorce.
If you're interested in learning more about prenuptial agreements or moving forward, consult with a legal specialist for the information you need.