If one or both partners of an engaged couple have significant assets or their own business, signing a prenuptial agreement is invaluable. While it may not be the most romantic thing to talk about, it helps to discuss money and assets, and it can make a divorce much less messy in the event the marriage dissolves.
According to Business Insider, everyone should consider a prenuptial agreement, but having a prenup in certain situations is important. These circumstances include if one or both spouses have:
- Large investments
- A business
- Rental property
- Kids from a previous marriage
- Property from a former marriage
Having a written commitment about how to divide things can keep a divorce less complicated. Some things to discuss with a financial planner, attorney and future spouse are how to separate individual and marital assets, who is responsible for debts, spousal support, taxes and who pays for the legal fees.
According to U.S. News, it is important both partners are open and upfront about the assets and debts they have. If the court finds out anyone was not fully disclosing everything, the judge can invalidate the agreement.
Although the purpose of a prenup is often more for the benefit of the one coming into the marriage with money, the agreement can also benefit the spouse who entered the union with very little. Without the prenup, there is a chance the spouse ends up with nothing. A prenuptial agreement is also beneficial for couples who do not have very much. Assets and debt will increase over the years of the marriage, so having a contract in place is often helpful.
