---
title: Our Blog - AMF Divorce | Divorce (2)
description: Divorce | From mortgage professionals to therapists to attorneys, the team at A.M. Financial works closely with these types of professionals. (2)
---

## A.M. Financial

<https://amf-divorce.com/our-blog/tag/divorce/page/2#navbar_global>

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    - [Services](https://amf-divorce.com/divorce-transition-services)
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    - [Frequently Asked Questions](https://amf-divorce.com/frequently-asked-questions)
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Posts about

# Divorce (2)

<https://amf-divorce.com/our-blog/navigating-a-high-net-worth-divorce-financial-insights>

## [Navigating a High Net Worth Divorce: Financial Insights](https://amf-divorce.com/our-blog/navigating-a-high-net-worth-divorce-financial-insights)

May 02, 2024

As a financial professional working with individuals and families for over two decades, and specifically divorce for nearly 9 years, I've encountered numerous complex cases, especially when it comes...

[CONTINUE READING](https://amf-divorce.com/our-blog/navigating-a-high-net-worth-divorce-financial-insights)

<https://amf-divorce.com/our-blog/establishing-goals-and-priorities-for-your-divorce-before-it-starts>

## [Establishing Goals and Priorities for Your Divorce Before It Starts](https://amf-divorce.com/our-blog/establishing-goals-and-priorities-for-your-divorce-before-it-starts)

February 02, 2024

If you’ve made the [decision to get a divorce](https://amf-divorce.com/our-blog/divorce-a-catalyst-for-change), you may wonder where to start the intricate and emotionally-charged process. Beginning with a clear understanding of your goals and priorities can...

[CONTINUE READING](https://amf-divorce.com/our-blog/establishing-goals-and-priorities-for-your-divorce-before-it-starts)

<https://amf-divorce.com/our-blog/communicating-your-divorce-sharing-your-decision-with-others>

## [Communicating Your Divorce: Sharing Your Decision with Others](https://amf-divorce.com/our-blog/communicating-your-divorce-sharing-your-decision-with-others)

January 02, 2024

Divorce is an emotionally challenging journey that often begins with one of the most daunting tasks—communicating the decision to friends, family, and colleagues. The way this information is shared...

[CONTINUE READING](https://amf-divorce.com/our-blog/communicating-your-divorce-sharing-your-decision-with-others)

<https://amf-divorce.com/our-blog/refinancing-considerations-with-higher-interest-rates-in-divorce-the-pros-and-cons>

## [Refinancing Considerations with Higher Interest Rates in Divorce: The Pros and Cons](https://amf-divorce.com/our-blog/refinancing-considerations-with-higher-interest-rates-in-divorce-the-pros-and-cons)

October 09, 2023

Divorce is undoubtedly a challenging process, and when combined with financial decisions like refinancing, it quickly becomes even more complex. Typically, homeowners refinance to secure a lower...

[CONTINUE READING](https://amf-divorce.com/our-blog/refinancing-considerations-with-higher-interest-rates-in-divorce-the-pros-and-cons)

<https://amf-divorce.com/our-blog/cost-of-living-considerations-in-your-divorce>

## [Cost of Living Considerations in Your Divorce](https://amf-divorce.com/our-blog/cost-of-living-considerations-in-your-divorce)

September 18, 2023

Divorce is a life-altering event that can have significant financial implications. One important factor to consider during this process is cost of living and related [economic inflation](https://amf-divorce.com/our-blog/key-ways-inflation-impacts-your-divorce). Understanding...

[CONTINUE READING](https://amf-divorce.com/our-blog/cost-of-living-considerations-in-your-divorce)

<https://amf-divorce.com/our-blog/what-is-a-loan-assumption>

## [What is a Loan Assumption?](https://amf-divorce.com/our-blog/what-is-a-loan-assumption)

August 01, 2023

Deciding the fate of [marital property](https://amf-divorce.com/our-blog/separate-vs-marital-property) is a crucial aspect of any divorce settlement. The process often involves intense emotions and complex financial considerations, making it all the more...

[CONTINUE READING](https://amf-divorce.com/our-blog/what-is-a-loan-assumption)

<https://amf-divorce.com/our-blog/navigating-financial-transitions-approaches-for-a-smooth-transition>

## [Navigating Financial Transitions: Approaches for a Smooth Transition](https://amf-divorce.com/our-blog/navigating-financial-transitions-approaches-for-a-smooth-transition)

July 17, 2023

The divorce process begins with a period of transition where expenses still need to be shared, followed by the need to establish new services and accounts in separate names. This includes setting up...

[CONTINUE READING](https://amf-divorce.com/our-blog/navigating-financial-transitions-approaches-for-a-smooth-transition)

<https://amf-divorce.com/our-blog/post-divorce-budget-planning-dont-overlook-these-8-items>

## [Post-Divorce Budget Planning](https://amf-divorce.com/our-blog/post-divorce-budget-planning-dont-overlook-these-8-items)

June 01, 2023

While it is always important to build a budget, it’s essential when you go through a significant financial change like one that follows a divorce. Budgets should include everything from necessary,...

[CONTINUE READING](https://amf-divorce.com/our-blog/post-divorce-budget-planning-dont-overlook-these-8-items)

<https://amf-divorce.com/our-blog/co-parenting-gift-giving-answering-your-top-questions>

## [Co-Parenting & Gift Giving: Answering Your Top Questions](https://amf-divorce.com/our-blog/co-parenting-gift-giving-answering-your-top-questions)

May 17, 2023

Divorce can be a difficult time for you and an even more challenging time for your kids. Most children crave consistency, naturally respond positively to rituals, and can be distressed when their...

[CONTINUE READING](https://amf-divorce.com/our-blog/co-parenting-gift-giving-answering-your-top-questions)

<https://amf-divorce.com/our-blog/how-to-divide-non-retirement-investments-in-your-divorce>

## [How to divide non-retirement investments in your divorce](https://amf-divorce.com/our-blog/how-to-divide-non-retirement-investments-in-your-divorce)

May 14, 2023

While the goal of every divorce is a fair and equitable division of overall assets, the specific portfolio of that division is unique in every divorce. Most divorce professionals will build a...

[CONTINUE READING](https://amf-divorce.com/our-blog/how-to-divide-non-retirement-investments-in-your-divorce)

- <https://amf-divorce.com/our-blog>
- [1](https://amf-divorce.com/our-blog/tag/divorce)
- [2](https://amf-divorce.com/our-blog/tag/divorce/page/2)
- [3](https://amf-divorce.com/our-blog/tag/divorce/page/3)
- [4](https://amf-divorce.com/our-blog/tag/divorce/page/4)
- [5](https://amf-divorce.com/our-blog/tag/divorce/page/5)
- <https://amf-divorce.com/our-blog/tag/divorce/page/3>

##### About Amy

With compassion and patience, Amy focuses on her client’s unique priorities to build a financial road map that provides clarity to make informed decisions today regarding the future.

##### Links

- [Home](https://amf-divorce.com)
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©2026 Copyright. All rights reserved.

A.M. Financial provides supporting financial information, evaluation and analysis to be utilized by the client and the client’s selected attorney if directed, during the process of their divorce. ervices provided in regards to this agreement are solely fee-only and do not involve investment or security advice or insurance transactions. All information is financial in nature and should not be construed or relied upon as legal or tax advice. A.M. Financial IS NOT AN ATTORNEY AND DOES NOT PROVIDE LEGAL OR TAX ADVICE. Individuals are encouraged to seek competent legal and tax advice from professionals who specialize in divorce and tax laws in their respective state.

Amy Melander (CRD #4692263) is an Investment Adviser Representative of OneDigital Investment Advisors, LLC (ODIA). ODIA and A.M. Financial are independent and unaffiliated entities. ODIA does not offer or provide divorce financial planning services and any statements and/or opinions expressed by A.M. Financial do not represent the views and/or opinions of ODIA.  

This website is a publication of A.M. Financial. Information presented is believed to be factual and up-to-date, but we do not guarantee its accuracy and it should not be regarded as a complete analysis of the subjects discussed. All expressions of opinion reflect the judgment of the authors as of the date of publication and are subject to change. Content should not be viewed as personalized investment advice or as an offer to buy or sell, or a solicitation of any offer to buy or sell the securities mentioned herein. A professional adviser should be consulted before implementing any of the strategies presented.

Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Inc. owns the certification marks CFP®, CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™, CFP® (with plaque design) and CFP® (with flame design) in the U.S., which it awards to individuals who successfully complete CFP Board’s initial and ongoing certification requirements.

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  "articleBody" : "As a financial professional working with individuals and families for over two decades, and specifically divorce for nearly 9 years, I've encountered numerous complex cases, especially when it comes to splitting assets and income streams in a high net worth divorce. Unlike typical divorces, where the division of assets may involve a house, a car, and some savings, these divorces often include a portfolio of financial holdings, from real estate to various investment vehicles, and complex compensation structures. In this blog post, I provide insights on the unique challenges and considerations involved in navigating the financial landscape of high net worth divorces. Complex Assets and Income Structures One of the defining characteristics of a high net worth divorce is the complexity of assets and income. From multiple real estate properties to various investment portfolios, including both traditional assets and emerging investments like cryptocurrency, each investment comes with its own tax implications, liquidity considerations, and risk profiles. Additionally, executives or business owners may have compensation packages comprising of stock options, restricted stock units, and deferred compensation, adding layers of intricacy to determining current and future income streams and property considerations. Specifically, complexity often arises in the following ways: Determining separate versus marital property: This may require historical reporting, review of trusts, or analyses of prenups. Valuing assets: You may need to hire additional professionals such as appraisers and tax specialists, and conduct valuations. A discovery process, or search for hidden assets, may require a forensic accountant. Business Valuations and Retirement Accounts In high net worth divorces, businesses owned by you or both you and your spouse often require thorough valuations, which can be both costly and time-consuming. You may have invested capital in other businesses as well, through venture capital or other investment structures. Similarly, retirement accounts, possibly spanning several types and structures, require professional assessment for equitable division. Inheritances, Trusts, and Income Streams Determining the marital or separate nature of inheritances or assets held in trusts adds another dimension to the asset division process and always requires oversight from an experienced family law attorney. In some cases, high net worth individuals may have multiple income streams that are taxed differently. These dynamics are best assessed by a team of professionals, including tax and financial experts, in an effort to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of each source and its implications for post-divorce financial stability. Time and Conflict Unlike conventional divorces, which typically conclude within six months, high net worth divorces often extend over one to two years or longer due to the complexity of financial arrangements. Gathering documentation, conducting due diligence, and valuing assets require meticulous attention to detail and may involve engaging additional professionals such as appraisers and forensic accountants. Addressing any unmet financial needs during this extended process can also be stressful and become timely and expensive. This will likely take an emotional toll on you, your family, and could negatively impact your career and/or social life. Spousal Support and Retirement Planning Spousal support in high net worth divorces falls outside of spousal support calculation norms, encompassing various income sources beyond wages, such as rental income and investment dividends. Therefore, property division can feed into the support considerations. Furthermore, if you are in your 50s or older, retirement planning takes precedence, resulting in a thorough evaluation of future income sources and asset allocation, which can result in financial security in later years. The Importance of a Divorce Team Given the multifaceted nature of high net worth divorces, assembling the right divorce team is important. In addition to experienced legal counsel, enlisting the expertise of financial planners, tax specialists, and divorce coaches can help streamline the process and minimize conflict. Effective communication and collaboration among team members helps navigate the complexities inherent in high net worth divorces. High net worth divorces present financial challenges that require careful navigation and expert guidance. By understanding the complexities of asset division, income assessment, and long-term financial planning, you can work towards equitable resolutions while safeguarding your financial future. With the right support system in place, your high net worth divorce process can accelerate a smooth transition to the next chapter of life. We assist in resolving the financial aspects of high net worth divorces. Contact me, Amy Melander, CFP®, CDFA®, for a free consultation to learn more about our services.",
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  "articleBody" : "If you’ve made the decision to get a divorce, you may wonder where to start the intricate and emotionally-charged process. Beginning with a clear understanding of your goals and priorities can significantly impact the outcomes and ease the journey ahead. This post provides guidance on how to establish this clarity before your divorce proceedings begin. Get Clear on Priorities Uncertainty can complicate the divorce process. If you're unclear about your priorities, it becomes challenging to articulate your needs and negotiate effectively. Taking time to get specific, realistic, and clear-headed about your priorities is pivotal for successful negotiations. Consider using this worksheet as a framework to document what’s most important to you during this time, including your priorities around: Property Finances Children Completing this before the divorce begins, during a less emotional period, provides a solid foundation for decision-making. If you can also understand your spouse’s top priorities, you may be able to reach agreements faster. Establish Goals Understanding what truly matters to you is key to establishing goals for your division of property, investments, debts, and parenting plans. Focus on critical aspects that align with your long-term well-being rather than attempting to attain everything or focusing too much on your short-term needs. For example, while ensuring that your spouse is paying the mortgage this month might be top of mind for you, work with professionals to consider what you need in the parenting plan long-term to ensure your children continue to have a meaningful relationship with both parents. Take your goals a step further by understanding, to the best of your ability, what each of your goals entails and how you can reach them. For example, if refinancing or purchasing a home is your goal post-divorce, understanding requirements for mortgage lending and building a future budget will be important. By having a few clear goals, you can identify what is non-negotiable and what you're willing to compromise on during legal negotiations.Working with a financial professional can also help you understand what long-term financial wins truly mean and how to balance those with short-term financial needs. Align on Strategy Collaborate with your attorney and other professionals to develop a strategy that aligns with your goals. As mentioned, flexibility is key during negotiations, so craft an approach that emphasizes deeper interests rather than rigid stances. For instance, if you are seeking spousal support until your children reach a certain age, explore alternative ways to bridge any income gap rather than assuming it's solely your ex-spouse's responsibility. Navigating the complexities of divorce becomes more manageable when you establish clear goals and priorities from the outset. This clarity empowers you to make informed decisions, negotiate effectively, and work towards a future aligned with your long-term vision. By approaching your divorce with clarity and purpose, you pave the way for a more stable and empowered future.To support the process, use our worksheet as a starting point for setting and prioritizing your interests during divorce. For more personalized guidance, reach out to us for a free consultation.",
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  "articleBody" : "Divorce is an emotionally challenging journey that often begins with one of the most daunting tasks—communicating the decision to friends, family, and colleagues. The way this information is shared can significantly impact the journey ahead for everyone involved. It’s important to approach this sensitive conversation thoughtfully, considering the emotional readiness of those you're about to inform. Seeking support from professionals like a divorce coach, from the onset of the decision, can help navigate these tricky conversations. In this post, we discuss what to keep in mind as you prepare to share the news of your divorce with others. Timing Is Key First, consider when you’ll share the news of your divorce. To make this decision, determine the emotional readiness of the individuals involved. For example, parents might relate better due to their own experiences white children could have intense emotional reactions. Consider the stage of legal proceedings and any other ongoing events or commitments before initiating these conversations. For example, it might not be best to share the news with your teenage daughter the night before she has a big test. Rather, consider timing that allows your friends and family time to react and process in the ways they need. Mutual agreement with your ex-spouse on the approach and timing for informing others can also be beneficial in managing the situation cohesively. Share Sensitively Once you’ve considered the right timing, take steps to deliver the news honestly and concisely in a private setting, avoiding public spaces. Share limited information initially, without disclosing legal intricacies. This approach can help maintain focus on the key message. Consider your audience and tailor the information to suit the understanding and appropriateness for each group. If you can initiate discussions with mutual friends alongside your ex-spouse, you can alleviate the immediate pressure they may feel of choosing sides. Start with less challenging conversations, if possible, allowing you to practise in delivering a composed, sensitive, and factual message about the situation, before moving to more challenging audiences, such as your colleagues or children. Managing Reactions Expect diverse reactions from friends, family, children, and coworkers. Being prepared to receive and process these responses is crucial. While accepting support is important, setting boundaries on discussions, especially if certain details aren't ready to be disclosed, is a healthy approach. Make it a priority to protect your personal space and privacy during this emotionally charged time. Getting help from professionals can help you process reactions effectively. Consider speaking with a divorce coach, psychologist, or other professionals in the early days of your divorce. Moving Forward Communicating your divorce decision is a significant milestone in the journey toward healing and moving forward. Approach it thoughtfully, protect your emotional well-being, and seek professional assistance to ensure a smoother transition through this challenging period. Sharing news of a divorce is just the beginning. Often, after this initial step, you may feel a sense of relief because you can now openly discuss the situation with friends and family. Next, it's time to focus on the practical aspects of the process, such as organizing finances and legal procedures. At A.M. Financial, Amy Melander, CFP®, CDFA® works with individuals and couples who are facing challenging financial decisions during the divorce process to help them make informed decisions today regarding the future. If you're navigating through this challenging phase and need support, consider reaching out for a free financial consultation or for referrals to professionals, such as a divorce coach, to guide you through the next steps.",
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  "articleBody" : "Divorce is undoubtedly a challenging process, and when combined with financial decisions like refinancing, it quickly becomes even more complex. Typically, homeowners refinance to secure a lower interest rate and save money, but in some situations, individuals may consider refinancing with a higher interest rate. This may seem counterintuitive, but higher interest rates can sometimes serve specific purposes during a divorce. In this article, we explore the potential pros and cons of refinancing with higher interest rates and why consulting a financial professional is important during this uncertain time. Pros of Refinancing with Higher Interest Rates While it might initially seem counterintuitive to refinance to a higher interest rate, there are certain conditions where this financial decision might make sense. Immediate Cash Flow Relief: If you find yourself struggling with high monthly mortgage or loan payments during a divorce, refinancing to a higher interest rate, even with a larger loan, could provide much-needed monthly payment relief. This can be particularly helpful if you need a lump sum of cash for various divorce-related expenses, such as settling attorney fees or dividing home equity. A Short-Term Need: If you plan to sell your property or pay off the loan relatively quickly, opting for a higher interest rate in the short term may not significantly impact your overall interest payments. Many individuals refinance at higher rates with the expectation of refinancing again once interest rates decrease, or even before they put their home on the market for sale. Tax Benefits: With low interest rates, some individuals may not qualify to itemize their taxes. However, higher interest rates could allow you to itemize this expense, potentially reducing the effective impact of the higher interest rate. Consulting a financial professional can help you determine the after-tax or 'effective' interest rate. Divorce Benefits: Refinancing can protect you in a divorce by separating your finances from your ex-spouse. Holding a joint mortgage after divorce can lead to credit risks and complications in estate planning. Separating finances as much as possible in a divorce is typically recommended for a smoother transition and a healthier co-parenting relationship. In an extreme example, you need to update wills related to your property once your divorce is finalized because joint rights of survivorship will terminate automatically, and transfer to ‘tenancy in common’ in Colorado. If the non-resident spouse remarries while the house is still owned jointly and passes away, the ex spouse and new spouse would co-own the property! Income Tax Bracket Consideration: Generally, a higher interest rate refinance may benefit individuals in higher tax brackets, where tax deductions are more valuable. Conversely, it may not be advantageous for those in lower tax brackets or those primarily receiving tax-free maintenance and child support. Cons of Refinancing with Higher Interest Rates While the cons of refinancing with higher interest rates may seem obvious, there are some specific drawbacks to keep in mind relevant to divorce. Higher Long-Term Costs: The most significant drawback of refinancing with a higher interest rate is that you'll end up paying more interest over the life of the loan. Even with lower monthly payments, the total interest paid over the loan's duration can be substantially higher. Qualification Challenges: Higher interest rates can make it difficult for individuals to qualify for a new home loan due to income constraints, debt levels, or loan-to-value issues. Given the complexity of divorce and changing financial circumstances, qualifying for a higher interest rate can be challenging. Reduced Home Equity: Refinancing with a higher interest rate means building home equity at a slower rate compared to a lower interest rate. This can impact long-term financial stability and your ability to access home equity for other purposes. Credit Impact: If you struggle to make payments on time due to increased monthly obligations from a higher interest rate, due to the overall impact on your budget, refinancing can indirectly and negatively affect your credit score. While refinancing with higher interest rates is not typically recommended due to the potential for higher long-term costs and reduced financial benefits, it's important to run the numbers and carefully assess your specific financial situation and goals. This is especially true during a divorce, when asset ownership gets more complex. Consulting a financial professional, such as A.M. Financial, can help you model different scenarios that take variables into account including tax benefits, financial objectives, and budgets, allowing you to make informed decisions about refinancing. Contact us to learn more about how we can assist you during this challenging time.",
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  "articleBody" : "Divorce is a life-altering event that can have significant financial implications. One important factor to consider during this process is cost of living and related economic inflation. Understanding how your divorce may be impacted by the cost of living in your local area can alter your financial decisions and these considerations are essential when planning for the future. In this post, we outline three things that will significantly impact your cost of living and how you can prepare for these changes post-divorce. Housing Costs in Colorado One of the most significant costs you will incur post-divorce is affording housing on your own. Unless you have a sizable down payment for a new home, significant equity in your current home, or plan to drastically downsize, a new mortgage or rental payment is going to cost between $2,500 and $3,000 per month minimum - if you have children living at home. When securing a loan or determining your budget, your housing (mortgage or rent) should not be more than 25-30% of your total income. That means you need between $7,500 and $12,000 per month in total income to live in Colorado comfortably, without a contributing roomate. Therefore, it’s important to determine where your income streams will come from and the reliability of those income sources so you don’t get in over your head with a large mortgage payment. The Details of Your Settlement Working closely with an attorney and financial advisor during your divorce can help you develop a settlement strategy that aligns with your financial goals. For example, if you know that housing will be your biggest hurdle in managing the cost of living in Colorado on your own, you may design your settlement in a way that allows you to retain the marital home in exchange for other assets that may be less impactful to your existing situation. While you want to avoid short-term thinking, the way you design your maintenance and divide your retirement assets could also help you solve for cost-of-living needs and give you more time to get back on your feet. The details of your settlement and the advisors that support your financial strategy during this time can greatly impact the way you manage cost of living challenges post-divorce. Income and Tax Considerations When you consider all sources of income, from child support to maintenance, to earned income and passive income, you’ll be able to design a budget that illustrates whether you have the resources to recover and eventually thrive based on the cost of living in your area. Based on your income from all these sources, you’ll likely have new tax filing considerations post-divorce, which may or may not work to your benefit. It’s best to work with a financial advisor who can help minimize your tax liability, identify new deductions or exemptions, and prepare you for any changes in tax payments post-divorce. You may also decide that it’s essential to go back to work full-time or invest in career training to improve your financial situation in a high-cost-of-living environment. The cost of living considerations and economic inflation in a divorce require careful evaluation. Work with a team of professionals to consider everything from housing expenses to the specifics of your asset division, and sources of income along with the related tax implications. Seeking professional advice from divorce attorneys, real estate lenders, financial advisors, and tax professionals can help you navigate these considerations and make informed decisions for your future financial well-being. At A.M. Financial, we answer top questions you might have about your financial future and model different scenarios to structure what you need so you can recover and eventually thrive in a high cost-of-living state like Colorado. Contact us for a free consultation.",
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  "articleBody" : "Deciding the fate of marital property is a crucial aspect of any divorce settlement. The process often involves intense emotions and complex financial considerations, making it all the more challenging. One common alternative couples are considering to handle the marital home that has gained popularity in today’s unique market conditions: loan assumption. The recent increase in both interest rates and home prices has added additional pressure on homeowners navigating divorce, limiting their available options. As a result, many individuals are actively seeking creative and practical alternatives. In this blog post, we explore the nuts and bolts of loan assumptions to help you make an informed financial decision that aligns with both your financial goals and your unique divorce circumstances. What is a Loan Assumption? In addition to significant increases in housing costs that we have seen since the pandemic,, coupled with the reality of doubling housing costs for a divorcing couple, many couples are evaluating loan assumptions to minimize overall housing expenses. This option provides an opportunity to maintain current, affordable housing costs, retain homeownership, and/or to provide stability for children. Is a Divorce in Your Future? Get Prepared with These Essential Tips. A qualified loan assumption is when one party of a joint debt, such as a shared mortgage, qualifies to retain and retitle the original loan into their name, solely. This essentially releases the other debtor (typically a former spouse or domestic partner) from the mortgage payments and debt obligation. Many homeowners are looking to explore this option in a divorce under the assumption that the individual retaining the loan will be able to keep the original loan terms, where they hope to keep previous low mortgage rates and their associated lower, current mortgage payments. Clients in the Colorado area are looking into loan assumptions to determine if they are an option as they go through their divorce. Oftentimes, bank representatives may even confirm the availability of a loan assumption. However, according to the Certified Divorce Lending Association, loan assumption options may not always meet client expectations post-divorce. It’s important to work with a Certified Divorce Lending Professional (CDLP) or mortgage planning assistance to determine which mortgage path is best for you during your divorce and to determine what information you can rely on to make decisions in your divorce that remain reliable post-divorce for agreements to be carried out. Keep these important considerations in mind as you evaluate a loan assumption in you divorce: Not All Institutions Offer Loan Assumptions A CDLP can help you review your loan documents to determine if your current institution offers loan assumptions. Sometimes calling your loan provider and inquiring can be misleading (see bullet point 5 below). Some Types of Loans Are More Likely to Provide Loan Assumption Government mortgage loans such as FHA, VA, and USDA loans often offer loan assumption programs. When it comes to VA loans, if the individual assuming a VA loan is not a veteran, the veteran will forgo their VA entitlement as long as the VA loan assumed is operating until it is paid in full. This limits a veteran’s ability to obtain another VA loan on a future property. Conventional loans may offer loan assumption programs, but are not required. Actual Loan Assumption Terms May Not Reflect Original Terms While institutions may offer loan assumption, they are not required to provide a loan assumption with the original loan terms, such as the original low interest rate. They can sometimes offer a loan assumption with higher rates or any other terms their current procedures deem necessary at the time. No Cash/Equity Buy-Out Absolutely no cash can be taken out during a loan assumption. Therefore, if the spouse who is not retaining the home requires an equity cash payment in order to produce an equitable and agreeable division of asset terms, a loan assumption can not be used to meet those needs. Mortgage Sales Practices Can Be Misleading Mortgage sales is a practice and financial institutions do their best to keep their current customers’ business. Be aware of bait and switch behaviors where mortgage professionals offer you one thing and, after further inquiry or qualification processes, offer you something different then expected, with higher rates then the original loan, a traditional refinance loan, or possibly no offering at all. Once again, working with a Certified Divorce Lending Professional for mortgage planning assistance can help protect you from these practices and provide reliable post-divorce information. Is Assuming a Loan Best for You? Even armed with this information, decisions around a loan assumption can be challenging. As you consider whether this is the right financial path in your divorce, keep the following in mind: While you do normally save on fees in a loan assumption (as compared to a refinance), you lose the option of re-amortizing your loan over a new 30-years. The latter approach could result in lower payments and provide you with more cash flow as you transition into new financial responsibilities on your own. Modeling the option of loan assumption against refinancing with different teams and current interest rates is important. Find a Certified Divorce Lending Professional to help you align your lending strategy to your long-term financial goals. While a loan assumption doesn’t require a full refinance, you do have to qualify for the payments on your own. This includes an evaluation of your income, assets, credit scores, and more. Typically, loan assumptions are a more affordable option than a refinance, because there are fewer fees, no appraisals needed, no application fees, and no fees paid to title/insurance companies. Consider the timing of your divorce alongside the timing of this decision. More traditional refinances typically take 30 days and loan assumptions can take 3-6 months. During this time, interest rates can also change, which could impact your strategy. Deciding the fate of marital property in divorce is a complex and emotionally charged process. However, amidst the challenges, loan assumptions have emerged as a popular alternative to refinancing or selling the marital home in today's unique market conditions. By staying informed and seeking professional guidance, you can navigate the complexities of divorce and make sound financial choices for a stable future. At A.M. Financial, we can help model various approaches and show you how they will impact your budget, cash flow, and long-term goals. Contact us to learn more about how we can support your evaluation of a loan assumption or other financial aspects of your divorce in a free consultation.",
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  "articleBody" : "The divorce process begins with a period of transition where expenses still need to be shared, followed by the need to establish new services and accounts in separate names. This includes setting up utilities, streaming services, Amazon Prime accounts, cell phone plans, car insurance, managing child expenses, making individual car payments, opening new bank accounts, transferring rewards points accounts (such as hotel memberships), and more. This phase of financial transition is often fraught with stress, tension, and frustration for several reasons. The logistical load of managing these changes, coupled with the emotional toll it takes on you and your former partner, can make untangling shared accounts and finances a challenging endeavor. In this blog post, we explore strategies that can help alleviate the burden of transitioning finances during a divorce. By implementing these strategies, you can navigate this process with greater ease, and focus on rebuilding your financial independence. Proactively make a plan A proactive approach is key when it comes to transitioning finances during a divorce. Couples who anticipate potential issues and create a plan ahead of time often experience a smoother transition. This entails working together to identify shared expenses through a thorough expense review. Start by creating a list of shared of expenses and the plan for moving forward. Decide whether it makes sense for one party to retain the original account and the other to open a new account or if the account should be closed and both parties open new accounts. By setting deadlines for transitioning high-priority items first and then creating a list of lower-priority items, you and your former spouse have a clear understanding of expectations and the income required to cover future expenses. Research is often necessary to navigate the transfer of expenses, accounts, and subscriptions. For example, you may need to reach out to insurance or cell phone companies to determine the costs of separate plans. Is a Divorce in Your Future? Get Prepared with These Essential Tips. These deadlines may align with the start of support payments, temporary orders, when the divorce is finalized, or occur at the time of one party moving out of the marital home. Taking these proactive steps allows for a more organized and informed approach to financial transition during divorce, reducing stress and resulting in a smoother process. Collaborate with a professional A financial professional can help facilitate the process of transitioning finances during a divorce. This expert can provide a comprehensive review of current expenses and identify specific expenses that require attention. Involving a financial professional can help provide a more objective approach, help diffuse conflicts, and assist in setting clear expectations for all parties involved. They can draft new budgets that allocate the new expenses to each individual, taking into account their respective financial situations. Communication is key to planning and implementing your transitions while seeking to maintain a good working relationship with your spouse. For couples who are experiencing high conflict during this process and account transitions are not possible, you may want to seek legal advice. In these cases, a financial professional can assist in setting up a system to track and reimburse expenses, whether in the short- or long-term. Additionally, they can help establish a consensus on a timeline that aligns with significant milestones such as moving out, finalizing the divorce, or the start of support payments, resulting in a practical and mutually agreed-upon plan for all parties involved. Navigating the financial aspects of divorce is undoubtedly a challenging and emotional journey. While it can be a time of excitement and newfound independence, it can also bring about high levels of tension and frustration. By combining these strategies with open and honest communication, as well as a willingness to put in the necessary work and research, you can help alleviate some of the strain during this transitional period. Leveraging expert guidance to navigate complex financial transitions can lead to greater satisfaction with the outcomes, and a sense of control over your financial future while establishing a respectful relationship with your ex-spouse. At A.M. Financial, we understand the importance of financial stability during and after divorce. Contact us today to learn how our experienced team can assist you in working through the financial aspects of your divorce.",
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  "articleBody" : "While it is always important to build a budget, it’s essential when you go through a significant financial change like one that follows a divorce. Budgets should include everything from necessary, known expenses to measurable, planned expenses and also include estimates for items that are often overlooked or harder to predict. Planning future financial needs is crucial in your divorce because it helps you illustrate the details of your financial situation and helps you build a case to receive maintenance. During and following your divorce, budgeting can give you peace of mind and security during a time of uncertainty. In this post, we outline standard expenses to include in your budget, as well as eight items that are often overlooked as you plan your financial situation. Standard Budget Items Some expenses are easy to plan for post-divorce because they are predictable, easy to estimate, and known financial commitments. These items include: Mortgage or rent Car payments, gasoline, and insurance Food Entertainment Utilities Clothing However, splitting your household into two and taking on the sole responsibility for some expenses can lead to costs being underestimated, overlooked, or not well-defined. That’s why it is critical to include additional budget estimates for items that are harder to predict. 8 Items Often Overlooked Building an accurate budget means understanding whether you’ll have enough money to comfortably live and respond to the unexpected. Here are eight critical budget costs that are often overlooked, especially during and after a divorce. Insurance Costs If your health insurance was covered through your spouse’s employer, you may be surprised about your out-of-pocket costs post-divorce. Usually, decent plans are offered by many employers at minimal costs to employees because employers help pay monthly premiums. When you are on your own, these expenses quickly rise. One option includes filling out COBRA, which is an extension of your current insurance plan through your ex-spouse’s plan where you are required to pay for the full monthly premium (available for up to two years after divorce). Another option is your state’s health insurance exchange (in Colorado, this is called Connect for Colorado). If you need specific coverage for prescriptions, check how your new insurance covers those prescriptions. On the auto and home insurance side, if you buy a new home or car as you start to rebuild your own life, you may incur higher insurance costs that you didn’t anticipate. Childcare Costs Following your divorce, you may no longer be able to build a schedule in which you don’t need childcare, even if you previously worked out a schedule with your spouse or other family members. Typically, your need for childcare will increase as a single parent. This is critical to calculating as it is included in your sworn financial statement. Child care is also included on the child support worksheet in Colorado and influences obligation amounts. Therefore, it is critical to have a clear expectation of these costs during the year (and how the costs may vary during the school year and throughout the summer). Especially if you are expected to work more hours than you did during your marriage, it is important to get ‘credit’ through child support from the other parent. Also, consider pet care. If you plan to rejoin the job force, for instance, you’ll need to pay for services for your animal while you are working, even though your spouse and you may have been able to share these responsibilities and build work schedules around them in the past. Emergency Savings Account Having up to six months of living expenses in an emergency fund provides peace of mind. You may need to rebuild this by putting money aside each month to create an emergency fund for things like job loss or a significant home repair. Retirement Savings Many divorcees need to rebuild their retirement savings. Participating in an employer retirement plan can make this easier as they often provide matches to help you reach your retirement goal. If you have been out of the workforce for a long period of time and you are trying to support a case for maintenance, it is important to include necessary retirement savings needed on your sworn financial statement in order to reasonably retire if your current assets and growth are not sufficient to do so. Memberships Often, memberships to everything from fitness clubs to Amazon Prime include a family rate. After a divorce, you’ll take on 100% of these costs as you secure your own memberships and subscriptions to important experiences and opportunities. Plan accordingly because small costs can add up quickly. Gifts and Special Occasions When your budget is tighter, you may feel the impact of holiday gift giving or a vacation a lot more than you did with two incomes. Consider setting aside some month each month in your budget to pay for these experiences and gifts. Home and Car Maintenance While it is easy to plan for monthly car and home payments, and even approximate gas and electrical costs, budgeting for unexpected repairs is trickier. Without extra money set aside, you could find yourself significantly dipping into your emergency savings fund for things like this. Consider the total cost you want to spend on home updates in a year and budget accordingly, on a monthly basis. For auto issues, plan for at least one significant expense a year and set aside money monthly to fund this emergency repair. Future child expenses If you have young children, some of the following items might not be on your radar yet, but they should be addressed in your parenting plan and future budget when they become applicable. Planning for and having agreements outlined in your parenting agreement reflecting how some of the following items will be handled can be extremely helpful. You are not obligated to agree to these expenses, but being proactive and setting expectations is key to successfully funding these future costs, lowering future stress and can provide the framework for a better co-parenting relationship. You can define these expenses as part of your divorce decree and parenting plan agreements: Cell phone costs Car insurance College savings/costs Future Budget Planning Creating a successful budget is critical to your financial future. At A.M Financial, we help ensure that you are set up for future success after your divorce with thorough planning and advanced financial expertise. Capturing 100% of your expenses, no matter if you are a single parent or past retirement age and on a fixed income, helps reduce stress and create more certainty about your finances. Contact our team to learn how we can help with this critical part of your financial planning.",
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  "articleBody" : "Divorce can be a difficult time for you and an even more challenging time for your kids. Most children crave consistency, naturally respond positively to rituals, and can be distressed when their expectations don’t meet reality. Feelings can be even more heightened during holidays, birthdays, and during annual milestones (such as vacations, back-to-school, and more). Kids also respond differently based on their ages at the time of the divorce. Along with holidays and rituals comes gift-giving and recognition through presents. Whether that be presents they receive or watch their parents receive, these activities are often important for their lives to feel “normal” despite their new family structure. In this post, we provide insights into ways you can create consistency for kids through carrying on a new version of gift-giving, post-divorce. Keep family rituals in tact, when possible Especially in the first year post-divorce, creating consistency for the kids can reduce their anxiety and uncertainty about the new parenting situation. Kids are used to both receiving gifts as well as seeing their parents receive gifts. Maintaining some gift-giving (if financially able) with your co-parent during this initial year or two is a way to foster a healthy relationship with the other parent by keeping known rituals intact. Gifts can be small, yet meaningful, such as a framed photo of your child or personalized journal. Some kids blame themselves for the divorce or even feel bad for their parents, and watching their parent without a gift to open on their birthday or other holiday can further cultivate anxiety, stress, and self-blame for kids. While divorce can be financially disruptive, maintaining existing rituals in the ways kids receive gifts can make them worry less about change. At the same time, if your children are accustomed to being showered by gifts, begin to identify new forms of displaying love other than material items. This will be especially important as single parenting ramps up and family time can be more limited. Doing things together and spending quality time in each other’s company will begin to mean so much more than material things. Follow your child’s lead After keeping things in tact as much as possible in the first year or so, it’s important to follow the lead and observe how your kids are adjusting to gift-giving and receiving. Most kids love to get gifts, but begin to notice whether they prefer your time and attention rather than material items and lean into their tendencies and cues. As far as kids honoring their parents with gifts, they might ask to buy a birthday gift for your co-parent to honor them, while other kids may be comfortable creating a hand-drawn card and not ask about gifts at all. Follow their lead and don’t push the topic. Let them direct the process so it feels authentic for everyone involved. If they do show interest in picking out a gift for their parent, allow them to choose something in a reasonable price range and encourage them to wrap and present the gift without getting involved in the process. Help them consider gifts of time and experiences as well. Consider a conversation Some co-parents may want to set limits and expectations around gift giving to eliminate competition and create certainty, especially for the children. Some co-parents may even decide to use this same strategy to set limits on the gifts they give their kids, setting a financial limit on big holidays that they collectively commit to, or maybe even pooling money for a bigger gift that can be shared between families. Other families may define expectations around co-parent gifts and commit to taking the kids shopping for the other parent’s birthday, for example. While these conversations may only work in constructive co-parenting situations with high trust and respect, it may be worth attempting a dialogue to ensure that expectations are clear and fair across families. The way kids are impacted in a divorce shouldn’t be taken lightly. While there is so much you can’t control about how they feel and how they will respond, honoring family rituals around gifts and celebrations is one thing you can impact. Look to create consistency initially and then allow the rituals evolve based on the responses from your co-parent and your kids. If you have other questions about financial planning for the kids post-divorce, involving gift giving or other topics, contact Amy Mahlen for a free consultation.",
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  "articleBody" : "While the goal of every divorce is a fair and equitable division of overall assets, the specific portfolio of that division is unique in every divorce. Most divorce professionals will build a property division spreadsheet to capture details, but there is so much more to consider. Although there are several categories of assets, extra value is often placed on retirement assets (401Ks, pension plans, and IRAs) and home equity, as the value of those assets tends to be higher and therefore can dramatically impact the parties’ futures. In this post, we help you understand what to do with non-retirement investments and how to ensure you have the right help to make these important decisions. Which non-retirement investments should I evaluate? Non-retirement investments include cash, certificates of deposit, stocks, mutual funds, money in brokerage accounts, rental property, land, businesses, and valuable assets such as cars, jewelry, precious metals, antiques, collectibles, and more. While your 401K might not have much emotional weight to it, often some of the non-retirement assets can have personal and sentimental value. Some may remind you of the marriage and you may choose to get rid of them along with the attached memories, while other items could be irreplaceable and may have strong sentimental value, such as an antique. Consider which non-retirement assets have unique value and future potential value along with others that might leave you with maintenance expenses and tax implications. What to consider as you negotiate an ideal division of assets A trusted financial advisor and divorce attorney are critical allies who can advise you on a non-retirement investment negotiation strategy. While you may understand some assets better than others, such as cash versus rental properties, you don’t want your understanding of the investment to solely drive your decisions around asset division. Instead, let the professionals help you understand the full scope of each asset and how each of them align with your risk profile and financial goals. For example, your goals may align better with some assets than others. You may need cash for a new home purchase, but don’t want to deal with the maintenance of a vacation home, and therefore need a negotiation strategy that helps you create the life you want and the assets that support that future vision. Lastly, the tax implications of certain investments may change their overall, long-term value or create surprise tax consequences. By working with a CFDA, you’ll understand what to expect and how to use these projected figures to negotiate intelligently, creating the outcomes you want in both the short and long-term. While a 50/50 split might be the default thinking in most divorces, it’s critical to look beyond an even division of assets, and that’s where a financial expert can help. Educate yourself by working closely with a financial advisor who can be objective, alongside your attorney, and help you remove emotion from your decisions. A third party and help you fully understand the current and future financial implications of your division of assets. Contact us to schedule a consultation to learn more about how we can help.",
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