--- title: Our Blog - AMF Divorce | Investments description: Investments | From mortgage professionals to therapists to attorneys, the team at A.M. Financial works closely with these types of professionals. --- ## A.M. Financial - [Services](https://amf-divorce.com/divorce-transition-services) - [Service Plan](https://amf-divorce.com/service-plan) - [Frequently Asked Questions](https://amf-divorce.com/frequently-asked-questions) - [Our Blog](https://amf-divorce.com/our-blog) - [About Amy](https://amf-divorce.com/about-amy) - [Contact Us](https://amf-divorce.com/contact-us) - [Services](https://amf-divorce.com/divorce-transition-services) - [Services](https://amf-divorce.com/divorce-transition-services) - [Service Plan](https://amf-divorce.com/service-plan) - [Frequently Asked Questions](https://amf-divorce.com/frequently-asked-questions) - [Our Blog](https://amf-divorce.com/our-blog) - [About Amy](https://amf-divorce.com/about-amy) - [Contact Us](https://amf-divorce.com/contact-us) [Book a Meeting](https://calendly.com/amymahlenmelander/consultdivorcefinancialplanning) Posts about # Investments ## [Post-Settlement Financial Support](https://amf-divorce.com/our-blog/post-settlement-financial-support) December 02, 2025 For many people, the hardest part of divorce seems like the negotiation itself, and sorting through assets, discussing support, weighing options, and finally reaching an agreement. But as a [CDFA](https://amf-divorce.com/our-blog/empowering-clients-and-attorneys-in-high-conflict-divorce-cases-the-role-of-a-cdfa),... [CONTINUE READING](https://amf-divorce.com/our-blog/post-settlement-financial-support) ## [The Importance of Financial Disclosures in Divorce](https://amf-divorce.com/our-blog/the-importance-of-financial-disclosures-in-divorce) October 02, 2024 Divorce is often accompanied by [emotional](https://amf-divorce.com/our-blog/managing-the-money-crazies-in-divorce-navigating-emotional-turbulence) and financial challenges. These dynamics can feel overwhelming, especially if informal agreements were made between you and your spouse. Despite any... [CONTINUE READING](https://amf-divorce.com/our-blog/the-importance-of-financial-disclosures-in-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) ## [Avoid Tax Landmines While Transferring Assets Post-Divorce](https://amf-divorce.com/our-blog/avoid-tax-landmines-while-transferring-assets-post-divorce) March 30, 2023 Your divorce is final, you can finally breathe and start to rebuild. The next item on your to-do list is complying with your agreements and facilitating the division of property. Transferring... [CONTINUE READING](https://amf-divorce.com/our-blog/avoid-tax-landmines-while-transferring-assets-post-divorce) ## [Saving for Retirement after Divorce](https://amf-divorce.com/our-blog/retirement-after-divorce) June 01, 2022 In working with clients throughout Colorado, many divorced women do not save much for retirement. This is especially true if 100% of their income is coming from maintenance payments. It’s important... [CONTINUE READING](https://amf-divorce.com/our-blog/retirement-after-divorce) ## [What is a Certified Financial Divorce Analyst?](https://amf-divorce.com/our-blog/certified-financial-divorce-analyst-a-m-financial) June 01, 2022 Going through a divorce can often feel lonely and confusing. Even if you know others who have been through a divorce, the process has evolved significantly in the last decade, and friends and... [CONTINUE READING](https://amf-divorce.com/our-blog/certified-financial-divorce-analyst-a-m-financial) ## [Property Division Values, Part 2: Non-Retirement Assets](https://amf-divorce.com/our-blog/property-division-values-part-2-non-retirement-assets) June 01, 2022 When dividing assets in divorce most people, individuals, mediators and attorneys alike, tend to focus on the property division spreadsheet. Current values of assets are listed along with... [CONTINUE READING](https://amf-divorce.com/our-blog/property-division-values-part-2-non-retirement-assets) ## [What do the current economic conditions mean for housing prices?](https://amf-divorce.com/our-blog/current-economy-housing-prices) June 01, 2022 If you are going through a divorce or planning to sell your home for any reason, you may be curious how rising interest rates and [market uncertainty](https://mahlenfinancial.com/market-uncertainty-impact-my-divorce/) impact housing prices now and in the future.... [CONTINUE READING](https://amf-divorce.com/our-blog/current-economy-housing-prices) ##### 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) - [Services](https://amf-divorce.com/divorce-transition-services) - [Our Blog](https://amf-divorce.com/our-blog) - [About Amy](https://amf-divorce.com/about-amy) - [Contact Us](https://amf-divorce.com/contact-us) - [Schedule a Meeting](https://calendly.com/amymahlenmelander) ©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. ```json { "@context" : "http://schema.org", "@type" : "BlogPosting", "articleBody" : "For many people, the hardest part of divorce seems like the negotiation itself, and sorting through assets, discussing support, weighing options, and finally reaching an agreement. But as a CDFA, I’ve learned that implementing those decisions is often just as challenging. The truth is that divorce does not feel complete simply because the papers are signed. A settlement is a roadmap, but someone still has to do the driving. For many people, that journey feels overwhelming, confusing, and emotionally exhausting, especially when navigating it alone. Post-settlement financial support can often make all the difference. With a clear plan, steady guidance, and someone to walk through each step with you, the transition becomes far more manageable. A knowledgeable partner who understands the financial implications of this stage of the process can help ensure that every detail is handled correctly, every requirement is met, and every decision aligns with your long-term financial stability. Why Post-Settlement Support Matters Even the cleanest, most straightforward divorce agreement requires careful follow-through. Clients often underestimate the sheer volume of tasks that come after the decree is entered, including opening new accounts, transferring investments, retitling assets, updating beneficiaries, establishing new insurance, and taking care of the dozens of small but important steps that make the financial transition complete. This work is particularly stressful because it comes at a time when people are often emotionally drained. It’s common for individuals to feel unsure where to begin, afraid of making a mistake, or simply too overwhelmed to keep track of the deadlines and documentation required. Post-settlement support fills that gap with someone who understands the agreement, knows the financial landscape, and can guide the process from start to finish. What This Support Looks Like in Practice Working with individuals after their divorce helps them carry out the financial terms of their settlement. The process is highly personalized. By creating a clear sequence of steps, clients can move through each one. This includes setting up new accounts, establishing online access, completing transfer paperwork, and making sure that every asset is moved and titled correctly. A large part of this work also involves making transfers in a tax-efficient way, which is something many people understandably struggle to navigate on their own. Much of the support is hands-on and can include joining clients on calls with financial institutions to help ensure nothing gets missed or mishandled. Confirming beneficiary changes, review account titling decisions, and walking clients through updates to credit cards, phone plans, insurance coverage, and other elements of financial life that are impacted by divorce are common steps. For many, the process also includes preparing for the purchase of a new home, which requires thoughtful planning around cash availability, timing, and asset transfers. For those who want continued guidance, long-term financial planning, budgeting, and investment management are helpful services. Some clients choose to work together beyond the immediate post-divorce period so they can build a more solid financial foundation for the next stage of their lives. A divorce settlement outlines the plan. But the real transformation happens when that plan is carried out with care, clarity, and attention to detail. Post-settlement financial support ensures that every step is handled correctly and that individuals can move forward with confidence and not confusion. If you or someone you know needs support implementing the financial terms of a divorce, or if you’re an attorney seeking a trusted resource for clients after their case concludes, we’re here to help. Clients begin with a brief consultation where we determine the scope of support they need. Some choose comprehensive guidance throughout the entire implementation process, while others prefer help with specific tasks. Either way, they don’t have to navigate the transition alone. With the right support, the process becomes smoother, more organized, and aligned with their long-term financial goals.", "author" : { "@type" : "Person", "name" : "Amy Mahlen", "sameAs" : "", "url" : "https://amf-divorce.com/our-blog/author/amy-mahlen" }, "dateModified" : "02/12/2025", "datePublished" : "02/12/2025", "headline" : "Post-Settlement Financial Support", "image" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "height" : 400, "url" : "https://39875594.fs1.hubspotusercontent-na1.net/hubfs/39875594/Imported_Blog_Media/qtq80-uhWlNr.jpeg", "width" : 750 }, "mainEntityOfPage" : "https://amf-divorce.com/our-blog/post-settlement-financial-support", "publisher" : { "@type" : "Organization", "logo" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "url" : "" }, "name" : "A.M. Financial", "url" : "amf-divorce.com" } } ``` ```json { "@context" : "http://schema.org", "@type" : "BlogPosting", "articleBody" : "Divorce is often accompanied by emotional and financial challenges. These dynamics can feel overwhelming, especially if informal agreements were made between you and your spouse. Despite any pre-existing arrangements, financial disclosures during divorce are critical because they ensure transparency and protect both parties from future legal complications. In this post, we’ll explore why financial disclosures are required, how they safeguard both parties, and how they can prevent costly conflict down the line. Understanding Financial Disclosures In the divorce process, both you and your spouse are required to provide a comprehensive list of your financial information. This includes: Income: Salary, bonuses, and other sources of income. Expenses: Current living expenses, taxes, payroll deductions. Assets: Real estate, personal property, savings, retirement accounts, trusts, and business interests. Debt: Any existing liabilities such as mortgages, credit card debts, or loans. These disclosures provide a full financial picture and become the foundation for a fair division of assets as well as supporting information to base decisions upon. They are required for transparency and without them, one party may hide assets or income, which could lead to unequal settlement. Disclosures also serve to prevent future legal disputes, helping both you and your spouse understand the financial implications of your decisions. It’s somewhat common for couples to make informal financial arrangements during their marriage or separation, such as, I won’t touch your trust fund, or “You can keep the family business.” While these agreements might reduce conflict and complications at the time, they can create issues as the divorce moves forward. Informal agreements don’t always align with legal obligations, and in some cases, may even conflict with laws governing the division of marital assets. Financial disclosures make it easier for you and your spouse to consider all relevant information, and prevent either party from being disadvantaged due to an incomplete understanding of financial circumstances. Creating Financial Transparency By making financial disclosures, each party can be fully aware of the assets and liabilities at stake during divorce negotiations. This financial transparency reduces the likelihood of disputes after the divorce is finalized. When both spouses fully understand the financial landscape, there’s less chance that one will attempt to reopen the case due to an oversight. If disclosures are messy, individuals can discuss with an attorney if there are grounds to revise their decisions based on new information. This could result in additional costs, time, and stress for everyone involved. For example, one spouse may initially agree to forgo interest in a family trust but change their mind. Similarly, after consulting a financial expert, one spouse may realize they were unaware of certain property rights and the impact is has on either party’s situation moving forward. Considering Valuations Attorneys and financial professionals play a critical role in divorce proceedings, often recommending independent valuations of significant assets like businesses or trusts. These valuations support an accurate division of assets based on their current worth. Valuations can also clarify the financial implications of informal agreements. For instance, if one spouse initially agrees not to claim any interest in a business, a proper valuation may reveal that the business is more valuable than they realized, leading to a reconsideration by the party who previously had no interest. When extended family members are involved, financial disclosures can sometimes cause tension. For example, a spouse may initially express no interest in a family trust, only to change their mind after a better understanding of the situation. This can create friction, particularly if family members, such as in-laws, are reluctant to provide financial details or cooperate with the valuation process. In the long run, families often benefit from transparency, as it prevents disputes and protects both sides from future legal complications. In rare cases, there may be reasons not to disclose certain information immediately. For instance, if a spouse expects a large bonus or promotion, they may wish to follow their attorney’s advice on whether or when to disclose that information. Family business agreements should also be carefully reviewed with an attorney to determine what must be disclosed and what can be kept confidential. Financial disclosures are an essential part of the divorce process. They support transparency, can protect both parties from future disputes, and contribute to fair financial agreements. While informal agreements can complicate matters, formal disclosures and the guidance of financial and legal professionals help both parties avoid costly mistakes. Financial professionals can help with valuations and financial disclosures during divorce proceedings. They work alongside your attorney to ensure you are fully informed, educated, and protected throughout the process. Reach out to A.M. Financial or other Certified Divorce Financial Analysts to ensure you are making the best financial decisions during your divorce.", "author" : { "@type" : "Person", "name" : "Amy Mahlen", "sameAs" : "", "url" : "https://amf-divorce.com/our-blog/author/amy-mahlen" }, "dateModified" : "02/10/2024", "datePublished" : "02/10/2024", "headline" : "The Importance of Financial Disclosures in Divorce", "image" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "height" : 400, "url" : "https://39875594.fs1.hubspotusercontent-na1.net/hubfs/39875594/Imported_Blog_Media/qtq80-DvnTO4.jpeg", "width" : 750 }, "mainEntityOfPage" : "https://amf-divorce.com/our-blog/the-importance-of-financial-disclosures-in-divorce", "publisher" : { "@type" : "Organization", "logo" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "url" : "" }, "name" : "A.M. Financial", "url" : "amf-divorce.com" } } ``` ```json { "@context" : "http://schema.org", "@type" : "BlogPosting", "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.", "author" : { "@type" : "Person", "name" : "Amy Mahlen", "sameAs" : "", "url" : "https://amf-divorce.com/our-blog/author/amy-mahlen" }, "dateModified" : "14/05/2023", "datePublished" : "14/05/2023", "headline" : "How to divide non-retirement investments in your divorce", "image" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "height" : 400, "url" : "https://cdn2.hubspot.net/hubfs/39875594/Imported_Blog_Media/qtq80-vv73ar.jpeg", "width" : 750 }, "mainEntityOfPage" : "https://amf-divorce.com/our-blog/how-to-divide-non-retirement-investments-in-your-divorce", "publisher" : { "@type" : "Organization", "logo" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "url" : "" }, "name" : "A.M. Financial", "url" : "amf-divorce.com" } } ``` ```json { "@context" : "http://schema.org", "@type" : "BlogPosting", "articleBody" : "Your divorce is final, you can finally breathe and start to rebuild. The next item on your to-do list is complying with your agreements and facilitating the division of property. Transferring property can be tricky and sometimes trigger unintended tax consequences. Typically this happens to individuals who are not financially savvy, assume everything was addressed in their separation agreements including any form of taxes, do not seek assistance from a financial professional and are in a rush to get all the loose ends tied up to get on with the rest of their lives. The following information will help you steer clear of potential tax landmines during the transfer process: Tax-Free Transfers Property transfers pursuant to a divorce as outlined in a divorce agreement are tax-free under section 1041 of the tax code. Before you make the assumption that this is going to be easy, continue reading. This means the asset transfers tax-free, such as an investment, cars, furniture, retirement accounts, etc. For example, if Anna is awarded $100,000 (or 65 shares) of Joe’s Amazon stock, in order for the transfer to be tax-free Anna will need to open an account and have Joe instruct the institution to transfer the 65 shares of Amazon stock to Anna. Transferring the Amazon stock, the asset, to Anna is tax-free. Hidden Landmine If Anna tells Joe to sell the Amazon stock and write her a check for the proceeds, will this be a tax-free transfer? Technically, the cash, the asset transferring, will transfer tax-free. However, the hidden taxable event occurs when Joe sells the stock. Joe will receive tax documents stating how much of the Amazon stock sale is taxable which will be required to be reported as a gain (or loss if applicable) on his tax return. Since Joe purchased these shares of Amazon 10 years ago for $5,000, he will have realized a $95,000 investment gain which is most commonly taxed at 15%, therefore incurring a $14,250 tax bill. Retirement Accounts Retirement accounts have special tax advantages. Therefore, when investments are sold within a retirement account it is not a taxable event, unlike the prior example. However, a cash withdrawal from a retirement account is a taxable event and generates a 1099R tax form. Similar to the previous example, if Anna opens an IRA account and Joe signs a distribution form pursuant to divorce including a copy of their separation agreement, assets transfer from Joe’s IRA to Anna’s IRA will be tax-free. Hidden Landmine If Anna tells Joe that she needs the money from his IRA account and to write her a check, will this be a tax-free transfer? Unfortunately for Joe, any amount distributed from Joe’s IRA that does not go directly into another IRA with instructions that the transfer is pursuant to divorce will be fully taxable to Joe. For example, if Joe distributes $50,000 from his IRA to write a check to Anna, $50,000 will be reported as taxable income to Joe. Assuming a 24% tax rate, this transfer would cost Joe $12,000 in unforeseen taxes. Conclusion The best way to avoid unintended tax landmines during the highly stressful and expensive time of divorce, is to work alongside a Certified Divorce Financial Analyst who can help facilitate a smooth and effective post-divorce transfer plan. Let’s build a post-divorce financial strategy that works best for your future! You wouldn’t retire without a financial plan… it might be messy! Don’t divorce without one either! Get the information you need to get started here, or Click here to schedule a free initial consultation with Amy", "author" : { "@type" : "Person", "name" : "max.melomed@gmail.com", "sameAs" : "", "url" : "https://amf-divorce.com/our-blog/author/max-melomedgmail-com" }, "dateModified" : "30/03/2023", "datePublished" : "30/03/2023", "headline" : "Avoid Tax Landmines While Transferring Assets Post-Divorce", "image" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "height" : 400, "url" : "https://cdn2.hubspot.net/hubfs/39875594/Imported_Blog_Media/e261dd_a9b4b485aed74f1385412bc9a5f78644~mv2.webp", "width" : 750 }, "mainEntityOfPage" : "https://amf-divorce.com/our-blog/avoid-tax-landmines-while-transferring-assets-post-divorce", "publisher" : { "@type" : "Organization", "logo" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "url" : "" }, "name" : "A.M. Financial", "url" : "amf-divorce.com" } } ``` ```json { "@context" : "http://schema.org", "@type" : "BlogPosting", "articleBody" : "In working with clients throughout Colorado, many divorced women do not save much for retirement. This is especially true if 100% of their income is coming from maintenance payments. It’s important to consider how to prioritize saving for retirement despite competing priorities in your budget. In this post, you can learn why this happens and what you can do about saving for retirement after your divorce. Gender Income Gap One challenging aspect of saving for retirement for women is in a large part due to gender income gap issues. Traditional dynamics contribute to this reality, including lower pay for women, women having less financial knowledge, women needing more time away from work caring for family, divorced women financially providing for family, not receiving court awards or agreed upon shared expenses for children, and more. There are simply not enough finances to properly prioritize saving for retirement. It is extremely important to be aware of this challenge when 1.) negotiating asset division during your divorce and 2.) creating a future savings plan even if it means starting small. Putting off addressing this reality could mean working many more years than you would like or other undesirable outcomes. When you come up with a plan to save incrementally, your retirement savings can quickly add up. Prioritizing Children and Family If you are divorced and also a mother, your financial obligations to them may impact your ability to save for retirement. You may be overly taking care of your children and family’s financial needs to your own detriment. Some parties don’t help financially, even if they are under court order or if they do, do not comply fully with financial agreements, or don’t reimburse costs on time or at all. They may not agree that the child should receive medical care, go to day camp, play hockey, get a tutor, or attend counseling, for example. In which case, in a joint decision-making scenario, if the other party wants the child to participate in these activities, the financial responsibility falls on that party (often the mother). Getting retirement assets in your divorce For retirement planning, it’s critical to receive an equal portion of retirement assets in your divorce, even if you feel that getting the home or other cash options are better for you in the short term. You should push to receive at least 50% of the retirement assets in your divorce to lessen future savings needs that will be required. Even if you feel other assets are a priority at the moment, consider the long-term. Of course, it is difficult to save and when you’re in the thick of it, it is hard to see how important this is. Work with a financial specialist to model and project whether 50% of the retirement assets in your divorce can grow and mature into enough money for retirement, or if you may have to consider returning to work to supplement your income. When you consider your entire savings plan, take your own long-term needs into account alongside those of your children and family. Work with a financial expert to design a retirement savings strategy and budget that works for your unique situation. If you prioritize this now, know that there are substantial compounding effects over time. Contact Amy Mahlen of A.M. Financial to learn more about how we can help.", "author" : { "@type" : "Person", "name" : "Amy Mahlen", "sameAs" : "", "url" : "https://amf-divorce.com/our-blog/author/amy-mahlen" }, "dateModified" : "01/06/2022", "datePublished" : "01/06/2022", "headline" : "Saving for Retirement after Divorce", "image" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "height" : 400, "url" : "https://cdn2.hubspot.net/hubfs/39875594/Imported_Blog_Media/qtq80-U2oRxV.jpeg", "width" : 750 }, "mainEntityOfPage" : "https://amf-divorce.com/our-blog/retirement-after-divorce", "publisher" : { "@type" : "Organization", "logo" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "url" : "" }, "name" : "A.M. Financial", "url" : "amf-divorce.com" } } ``` ```json { "@context" : "http://schema.org", "@type" : "BlogPosting", "articleBody" : "Going through a divorce can often feel lonely and confusing. Even if you know others who have been through a divorce, the process has evolved significantly in the last decade, and friends and family don’t always have the most up-to-date advice and insights to offer. That’s one of the reasons many parties are choosing to work with more specialists and advisors in the process than ever before. Choosing the right partners can make all the difference in achieving the outcomes you want in your divorce. One of the important specialists to consider is a Certified Divorce Financial Analyst (CDFA), an advisor who holds one of the most desired and respected global divorce certifications. In this post, we’ll explore the role of a CDFA and how they can help you throughout your divorce. Training & Credentials A Certified Divorce Financial Analyst specializes in divorce finances in similar ways to a financial planner. However, while a financial planner is more of a generalist, a CDFA is trained specifically in divorce financial planning. In July 2020, the CDFA eligibility requirements changed to require a bachelor’s degree with three years of on-the-job experience, or five years of relevant experience if a CDFA does not hold a bachelor’s degree. Relevant experience must be in the fields of: Financial planning Family law Or experience in three or more of the following areas: Tax code Investment advisement or management Real estate, mortgage, or mortgage lending Life or disability insurance Financial therapy or coaching Based on these requirements, CDFA’s have deep experience and understanding of general finance along with specialized training around the financial dynamics of a divorce. Complementing other professionals CFDA’s work alongside attorneys and other important divorce professionals. However, attorneys are not financial professionals and are often not aware of specific intricacies surrounding tax, investment, transfer, and account regulations. Not to mention, you would not want them to bill you at their high rate to help with the financial support that is often needed throughout your divorce. Having a CFDA work alongside your attorney gives you access to specialized support and helps you feel comfortable making pressing financial decisions. A CFDA can serve as an expert in topics that may affect your long-term financial picture. He or she will often complete an analysis and provide recommendations on topics such as: Spousal or child support Dividing marital property/assets Proposing the value and division of retirement and pension funds Property limitations or requirements regarding the division of assets The economics of your divorce Setting financial goals and retirement objectives Divorce tax law, tax consequences, and tax liabilities Financial negotiation strategy Current and future cash flow (budgeting), and overall financial planning Specifically, CFDAs are helpful in divorces that are more financially complex, or those that require more education throughout the process (because one party isn’t as financially savvy or hasn’t been as involved in the finances). Choosing a CFDA Like the process of choosing any divorce professional as a partner in achieving the outcomes you desire, look for a CFDA who has related experience with similar types of clients, first and foremost. That way, they will offer relevant input and insights from firsthand experience. Check his or her qualifications to ensure a CDFA designation in addition to any additional certifications such as a CFPⓇ or ChFCⓇ.. Since many of the financial requirements of a divorce are state-specific, geographic experience is critical. Like any professionals you partner with, ensure you are aligned on preferred communication styles, whether that be weekly meetings, emails, phone calls, or a combination of the above. Referrals from friends, family, and your professional networks are always a good place to start. At A.M. Financial, we are a strong choice to partner with your financial needs with several prominent professional designations as well as over 15 years of experience supporting individuals and families with their financial planning needs of which 6 years working in the area of divorce. We know that each divorce is unique, and therefore we begin with a free consultation to understand your divorce specifics so we can best explain how we can support the outcomes you desire. Contact us to schedule that conversation today.", "author" : { "@type" : "Person", "name" : "Amy Mahlen", "sameAs" : "", "url" : "https://amf-divorce.com/our-blog/author/amy-mahlen" }, "dateModified" : "01/06/2022", "datePublished" : "01/06/2022", "headline" : "What is a Certified Financial Divorce Analyst?", "image" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "height" : 400, "url" : "https://cdn2.hubspot.net/hubfs/39875594/Imported_Blog_Media/qtq80-Onoc1l.jpeg", "width" : 750 }, "mainEntityOfPage" : "https://amf-divorce.com/our-blog/certified-financial-divorce-analyst-a-m-financial", "publisher" : { "@type" : "Organization", "logo" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "url" : "" }, "name" : "A.M. Financial", "url" : "amf-divorce.com" } } ``` ```json { "@context" : "http://schema.org", "@type" : "BlogPosting", "articleBody" : "When dividing assets in divorce most people, individuals, mediators and attorneys alike, tend to focus on the property division spreadsheet. Current values of assets are listed along with outstanding debt balances that are deemed to be marital. Typically, above all else, the focus and end goal is to split property 50-50. With so much emphasis on this spreadsheet that dictates the remainder of your financial future, is there anything missing that could dramatically skew the end results? Ignoring the financial components of a divorce settlement and the effect on your future is similar to playing slot machines in Vegas – hope to win, but there is a chance you will leave with a lot less than you came with and anticipated losing. In the first part of this series, retirement account valuation blunders were addressed when utilizing a 50-50 division approach. Here, we will examine non-retirement investments and what factors can alter the outcome down the road. Home equity and rental property will be outlined in upcoming posts. Part 2: Non-Retirement Investments Investments outside of the retirement category vary widely from checking accounts, certificates of deposits (CD), brokerage or mutual fund accounts, land, rental property, commodities such as gold, fine art, antique car collections, business ownership, etc. Are they all created equal? Or are they apples and oranges? Each asset previously listed is unique. The growth potential and place in an overall investment strategy differs drastically. Although these investments are not tax sheltered like retirement accounts, they are still subject to taxes in a different manner. When utilizing a 50-50 division of property approach during settlement, is awarding a $100,000 CD to Anna and $100,000 worth of Amazon stock to John realistic to rely upon for post-divorce results? Shortly after finalization, John sold the Amazon stock and used the proceeds to purchase a new home. The following April, he had an additional $12,000 tax bill because the stock was purchased 10 years prior for $20,000, so he realized a $80,000 capital gain that created a $12,000 tax bill. Anna was able to use her $100,000 for tuition to go back to school and help her parents with medical expenses over the following two years while only incurring $100 in additional taxes – a big difference! However, if Anna and John didn’t have current cash needs the end results would look very different in 10 years. Anna was never involved with the finances and making those types decisions made her nervous. During the next 10 years she left the $100,000 in a CD that ended up being worth $101,004 (based on today’s interest rates). John had a brother who worked at Amazon who encouraged John to keep the Amazon stock. Without purchasing additional Amazon stock, after 10 years it was worth nearly $260,000 because it grew an average 10% per year – more than a 150% difference! Conclusion The financial results that individuals experience post-divorce can be significantly distorted when a 50-50 division of property concept is solely relied upon. It is critical to understand financial components, your priorities and how suggested division plans affect your bottom line in the future. Financial education and professional analysis before signing the final papers is more important than ever to build a strong foundation for the next chapter in life. Let’s build a property division strategy that works best for you and your future! You wouldn’t retire without a financial plan… it might be messy! Don’t divorce without one either! Get the information you need to get started here, or Click here to schedule a free initial consultation with Amy", "author" : { "@type" : "Person", "name" : "max.melomed@gmail.com", "sameAs" : "", "url" : "https://amf-divorce.com/our-blog/author/max-melomedgmail-com" }, "dateModified" : "01/06/2022", "datePublished" : "01/06/2022", "headline" : "Property Division Values, Part 2: Non-Retirement Assets", "image" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "height" : 400, "url" : "https://cdn2.hubspot.net/hubfs/39875594/Imported_Blog_Media/e261dd_d28e6554adb0418a812e7205893dd778~mv2.webp", "width" : 750 }, "mainEntityOfPage" : "https://amf-divorce.com/our-blog/property-division-values-part-2-non-retirement-assets", "publisher" : { "@type" : "Organization", "logo" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "url" : "" }, "name" : "A.M. Financial", "url" : "amf-divorce.com" } } ``` ```json { "@context" : "http://schema.org", "@type" : "BlogPosting", "articleBody" : "If you are going through a divorce or planning to sell your home for any reason, you may be curious how rising interest rates and market uncertainty impact housing prices now and in the future. It’s a time when many homeowners are questioning whether it’s the right time to sell or even buy a new home post-divorce. Denver real estate expert, Shirley Jenkins, recently provided some insights on what to consider relative to housing prices in the current market conditions. In this post, Shirley answers four top questions you likely have in mind if you are considering selling your home in your divorce. How have rising interest rates impacted housing prices? Rising interest rates impact a buyer’s purchasing power. Every time interest rates go up, purchasing power decreases. For example, if someone is pre-qualified for $500K and interest rates go up even a quarter of a point, they now only qualify for about $485K, a fraction of that $500K. This dynamic can slow the housing market out of fear and slow home purchases because a buyer can’t afford the type of home they desire. Has an increase in interest rates been offset by a decline in prices? While it might seem like this should be the case, it is unlikely that we’ll see a decline in prices even with rising interest rates. This will vary slightly based on neighborhoods and price points with more competition. Similarly, interest rates aren’t impacting inventory like you might expect. Because real estate is hypersensitive to neighborhoods, mainly due to school districts and tax implications of certain areas, prices can be relatively stable in popular neighborhoods which have a great reputation, low inventory, and homes of a desirable age. This makes pricing a home difficult and you may have to test the market to find the right price in such a volatile market. Where do you expect interest rates and home prices to head through the end of this year and into 2023? Experts in the field believe that the market won’t change that much in the way of home prices over the next year, but interest rate hikes will likely continue to happen. The market will be somewhat status quo, with most trusted advisors predicting one interest rate hike still this year and one at the beginning of next year. Interest rates of 5-7% will become the new normal and will likely settle in the mid-6’s within the next 12-18 months. What else is important to know about selling a home in this environment? Keep market perception in mind, which can be a confusing phenomenon. Buyers and sellers perceive the market almost always six months in arrears. In other words, they perceive market conditions that were a reality six months ago. This leads to sellers being shocked that they can’t list their home as high as they would like. It’s difficult to keep up with the reality of real estate at the pace it changes. Said another way, it takes about six months to shift perspectives to actual market conditions.In these confusing and unpredictable market conditions, it is critical to find a realtor who truly trusts and understands how this market impacts your ability to buy and sell real estate, especially if you are going through a divorce. Amy Mahlen of A.M. Financial can support your decision by providing insight into the financial aspects your budget and what you can afford in this volatile market. If you have additional questions about the Denver real estate market and what to expect from this real estate market, contact Shirley Jenkins to learn more about how she supports clients in their real estate needs.", "author" : { "@type" : "Person", "name" : "Amy Mahlen", "sameAs" : "", "url" : "https://amf-divorce.com/our-blog/author/amy-mahlen" }, "dateModified" : "01/06/2022", "datePublished" : "01/06/2022", "headline" : "What do the current economic conditions mean for housing prices?", "image" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "height" : 400, "url" : "https://cdn2.hubspot.net/hubfs/39875594/Imported_Blog_Media/qtq80-3DOMC6.jpeg", "width" : 750 }, "mainEntityOfPage" : "https://amf-divorce.com/our-blog/current-economy-housing-prices", "publisher" : { "@type" : "Organization", "logo" : { "@type" : "ImageObject", "url" : "" }, "name" : "A.M. Financial", "url" : "amf-divorce.com" } } ```