Protecting Your Assets During Divorce
Divorce is more than an emotional shift, it’s a major financial turning point that can shape your future for years to come. One of the most critical parts of the process is making sure your assets are properly evaluated, fairly divided, and strategically managed. At Protegro, we help clients navigate this complex transition with expertise, clarity, and confidence.
Why Protecting Your Assets Matters
During a divorce, the assets you and your spouse accumulated—whether jointly or individually—come under review. Protecting your financial interests means looking beyond what appears to be “yours” or “theirs.” It requires a thorough understanding of ownership, valuation, and the long-term impact of every decision.
Without careful planning, you risk:
• Undervalued Assets: Overlooking the true value of property, investments, or retirement accounts.
• Unbalanced Settlements: Accepting an agreement that doesn’t consider long-term needs or tax consequences.
• Hidden Details: Missing assets or liabilities such as deferred compensation, business interests, or undisclosed debt.
Key Steps to Safeguard Your Financial Future
Get Clear on Your Financial Picture… Start by creating a complete inventory of assets and liabilities, including:
Bank accounts
Investments
Real estate
Retirement accounts
Life insurance policies
Personal property (vehicles, jewelry, art)
A financial professional can help ensure nothing is overlooked, especially complex items like business ownership or intellectual property.
Understand the True Value of What You Own: Fair settlements depend on accurate valuations. For assets such as real estate, investment portfolios, or pensions, work with experts who can provide precise valuations and long-term projections.
Consider Tax Implications: Different assets have different tax burdens. For example, dividing retirement accounts without proper planning can lead to penalties and taxes. A Certified Divorce Financial Analyst (CDFA) can help you evaluate the real, after-tax value of each asset before you make decisions.
Plan With the Future in Mind: Look beyond the immediate settlement. Consider whether your portion of the assets will support your long-term needs, retirement, housing, children’s expenses, and overall financial stability. Building a post-divorce financial plan ensures your settlement supports your goals.
Keep Emotions Out of Financial Decisions: Divorce is emotional, but financial choices should remain practical and forward-looking. Focus on decisions that strengthen your future, even if they require compromise in the moment.
Why Work with Protegro?
Wendy Pyne, RFC®, ChFC®, CDFA®, offers unmatched expertise in navigating the financial complexities of divorce. As a fee-only financial planner and fiduciary, she provides objective, personalized advice that prioritizes your best interests.
At Protegro, we:
Help uncover and accurately value all marital assets.
Provide clear, objective analysis of financial options during settlement discussions.
Design a post-divorce financial plan tailored to your goals and values.
Divorce is a pivotal moment in your financial life. With Protegro by your side, you’ll have the clarity and support to make confident, informed decisions that protect your future.
Contact Protegro today to start your journey toward financial empowerment.
