Divorce may be over, but the financial decisions you make afterward are just as important. Many women underestimate how much their money habits, expenses, and future planning change once the papers are signed.

The first 90 days after divorce can feel like a blur. Between legal documents, living arrangements, and adjusting to your "new normal," it's easy to let financial details slip through the cracks. But these early steps matter - they lay the foundation for your long-term security.

Yesterday, I was on the phone with my Ex discussing the kids and making some decisions together. He said that "parenting adult children is really hard," and I answered that I preferred it way more than parenting toddlers. He then made the comment that he can't seem to get away from the young ones--that his girlfriend has a 7-year old, but she was on the long-term plan. I asked him if he was going to get married again (he's going through a second divorce), and he said "not for awhile." That's when I said it. I said, "You know, if you want to do some financial planning to protect our kids' legacies, then okay." He agreed that might be a good idea. Ya'll--this was a HUGE moment. It marks the occasion where we've healed and recovered enough from our divorce to be able to talk on the phone without me hanging up on verbal abuse. It marks the occasion where he's comfortable even CONTEMPLATING discussing his finances with me. And it marks the occasion where we've been able to discuss something future-oriented again because we have kids together. Once again, we share a common goal. It's been a really long time.

Divorce can shift everything-your day-to-day life, your relationships, and your financial future. As overwhelming as it may feel, this new life chapter is also an opportunity to build strength, clarity, and control. When it comes to retirement, the steps you take now will help protect your independence for years to come.

Divorce marks the end of one chapter and the beginning of another - especially when it comes to your finances. For many women, managing money independently after divorce can feel overwhelming, but taking control starts with getting organized. At Smart Divorce Decisions, LLC, we help women build strong, confident financial futures after divorce. Here's the essential financial checklist every woman needs to move forward with clarity, stability, and financial confidence.

Now, it's time to take a few important steps to begin this next chapter with clarity and confidence.

I have seen firsthand the emotional and financial turmoil that can arise when proper planning is not in place. Today, I want to talk about the crucial importance of estate planning and prenuptial agreements, especially when children from a previous marriage are involved.

Life has a way of teaching us lessons in the most unexpected and often painful ways. Recently, I experienced a loss that has profoundly impacted me, both personally and professionally. I want to share this story with you not only as a means of processing my grief but also as a powerful reminder of the importance of prioritizing your financial future, especially during and after a divorce.

Hello, everyone! As a Certified Divorce Financial Analyst (CDFA) and financial advisor, I spend a lot of time helping women navigate the financial complexities of divorce. But today, I want to step away from the professional side and give you a glimpse into who I am, what brings me joy, and a little about my background.

In my practice, the most common type of abuse I see is financial abuse.

After my divorce, I rented a townhouse for a couple of years while I saved money to make a down payment on a new home. Unfortunately, the majority of the money I made selling the marital residence was spent paying the legal fees accumulated during the divorce--something I see commonly in my practice.

I'm taking this opportunity to discuss a topic close to my heart: empowering newly single women through financial education. Divorce can unsettle many aspects of your life, particularly finances. However, this period also presents a unique opportunity to take the reins of your financial future. I wanted to share a few insights into mastering the basics of personal finance, which helped me navigate my post-divorce world with more confidence and control.

May is a month of renewal, but for many, it's also a time to reflect on personal well-being as it aligns with Mental Health Awareness Month. Having gone through a divorce and helping many women as they go through their own, I know firsthand the tremendous emotional and financial strain it can place on anyone. Today, I want to talk about managing financial stress after a divorce-how to navigate this challenging time while prioritizing your mental health.

As Mother's Day approaches, I find myself reflecting on the journey of motherhood intertwined with the challenges and triumphs of managing finances as a single mom post-divorce. It's a balancing act that requires patience, perseverance, and a lot of planning. Today, I want to share some financial tips that have empowered me to face the future with confidence and ensure financial stability for both myself and for my kids.

Divorce can feel like a shift in every aspect of life, not the least of which is your financial situation. I understand the unique challenges and opportunities this change presents. Rebuilding your financial future after divorce requires a careful reassessment of your current situation and a strategic approach to planning ahead. Here are key strategies for smart money decisions post-divorce.

Over the years, I've had the privilege of hearing many powerful stories. These conversations are not just about numbers and budgets; they are deeply personal narratives about rebuilding, redefining, and rediscovering financial independence. I recently conducted a series of interviews to better understand the evolving financial goals of women at different stages of their divorce journey. I wanted to understand their goals and thought process surrounding money at all stages of this transitioning time during a divorce. I recently interviewed just under 100 inspiring women, and their answers provided invaluable insights into women's unique financial planning needs during this transformative time.

Divorce, while often viewed through a lens of challenge and adversity, can also be a powerful catalyst for personal growth and financial empowerment. For women navigating this transition, the journey can unveil strength, resilience, and an opportunity to redefine their financial future. In my experience as a financial advisor focused on helping women, I have seen so many stories of transformation and success.

After my divorce and as a financial advisor, I've seen firsthand how the transition to a single-income household can be overwhelming, and how managing finances effectively becomes more crucial than ever. In this post, I want to share some practical tips and advice to help single parents confidently navigate this new financial landscape.

Valentine's Day, a time traditionally associated with love and partnership, can bring unique challenges for newly single women, especially those navigating the aftermath of a divorce. Managing finances might feel overwhelming in these moments, but it's a crucial step towards independence and stability. Think of budgeting not just as number crunching but as an act of self-love and empowerment. I wrote this guide to help you lay a solid financial foundation. It's about confidently embracing your new journey and ensuring a stable future for yourself and your children.

As the new year unfolds, many of us embrace the mantra "new year, new you," reflecting on significant life changes.

As the new year begins, I'm reflecting on the journey of personal transformation, particularly for newly single women. Going through a divorce is not just an emotional upheaval, it's also a significant financial turning point. In this spirit of new beginnings, I want to share insights and strategies that have helped me and others embrace financial independence and empowerment in this phase of life.

Self-care and financial wellness might seem like separate realms, but they are deeply intertwined. As women, we often tend to put others' needs before our own, and especially during the holidays, it can be a particularly stressful time. In my experience as a financial advisor specializing in supporting women post-divorce, I've observed a strong connection between personal well-being and sound financial decision-making. I want to shed light on how self-care practices can significantly impact your financial health, especially for single parents post-divorce.

As a Financial Advisor, I've witnessed countless scenarios where the holiday season becomes a financial burden for many families, especially those navigating through life-changing events like a divorce. It's understandable that parents might feel the urge to overcompensate for their children's emotional needs by placing presents under the tree or purchasing extravagant gifts. However, it's important to recognize that embracing experiences over material items can be far more fulfilling and financially sustainable.

Why Disability Insurance is a Critical Tool in Your Post-Divorce Toolbox

In tandem with obtaining a life insurance policy to replace an alimony obligation and a child support obligation, updating your estate planning after divorce is also necessary. Establishing a trust dedicated to benefiting your children ensures that they will be provided for according to your specific wishes. In the unfortunate event of your passing, the life insurance policies will fund the trust, giving your children a lifeline of financial support and stability.

I've been working with a client to help her invest her QDRO and to develop a financial plan now that her second divorce is finalized. My client is an amazing woman--she's recently recovered from a life-threatening illness that required her to leave her job, and over her recovery she decided to make the most out of her second chance at life and end her marriage. I'm in awe of her strength and determination--and her courage.

My son graduated from high school last month, I'm glad to say. The kids who graduated from high school in 2023 are resilient, and their accomplishments mean something totally different than it meant for me! They've been through a pandemic, which turned their school experience into something akin to a zombie apocalypse-meeting their teachers and classmates in a zoom room instead of a classroom...seeing their teacher's kitchen, living room, or wherever their teacher was sitting to hold class. Those students who were new had a completely different (and much harder) "new kid at school" experience. These students had to sit in front of a computer all day for class, something the Academy of Pediatrics Association has been saying for years affects kids in many negative ways. These students didn't have social interactions with their peers, with their cousins or even their grandparents for...how long was it? Almost a year? And when we all finally came out of lockdown, everyone was wearing masks, and these kids never saw their teachers or their classmates smile at something kind or funny that was said. I can't imagine what that was like for all these teenagers whose brains were developing, whose understanding of social cues was developing, and whose hormones were going crazy all while their social environment consisted of Insta, Snap, Discord and Tik-Tok.

My client opened her own investment account the other day.

Income is the foundation of the life you have today, and the future you plan for yourself and for your children.

It's important to clarify how shared expenses for children will be paid for by each parent, and that the expenses are split according to the percentage of total income of both parents. Specifically, unless both parents' incomes are equal, a 50/50 split of expenses is not reasonable. As an example, if one parent's income is $160K and the other parent's income after spousal support and child support is $60K, then a 50/50 split of shared expenses is not reasonable and has a negative impact on the children's lifestyle when they're with the parent who has to share the expenses equally on less income. I see this issue often in my practice, and also in my own life.