Facing Financial Independence After Divorce
“Every new beginning comes from some other beginning’s end.”
Sue was 52 and navigating a new chapter after her recent divorce. After 25 years of shared finances, she was now managing her household, income, and retirement planning solo for the first time.
It’s not that Sue wasn’t capable—she’d built a great career and raised two incredible kids. But the financial tasks her ex used to handle—investments, budgeting, and insurance—felt overwhelming.
Sue’s story isn’t uncommon, which is why I share it. Divorce is one of the most significant financial hurdles women over 50 face. From untangling joint accounts to reassessing retirement plans, there’s no handbook for starting over.
But there is a way forward.
Starting Over Financially: It’s Not Just Numbers, It’s Confidence
For many women, divorce brings a wave of anxiety:
How do I manage everything on my own?
What’s my financial future going to look like?
Am I going to be okay?
Let me tell you this: you can do this.
The key is taking one step at a time with clarity and confidence.
Step One: Take Stock of What You Have
Divorce often leaves finances feeling fragmented. Start by creating a clear picture of your new financial reality:
List Your Assets. Include savings, retirement accounts, property, and investments. Everything that has a dollar value.
Know Your Income. Document your paycheck, alimony, child support, or other sources like social security and other monthly or annual payments.
Understand Your Expenses. Map out monthly costs, from housing to groceries to utilities.
This process can feel daunting, but putting it all on paper is empowering. It helps you see where you stand and identify what needs attention.
Step Two: Rebuild Your Plan
With a clear financial snapshot, it’s time to realign your goals. Here are actionable steps to take:
Reassess Your Budget. Your income and expenses are likely different now. Focus on essential expenses first, then decide what’s realistic for discretionary spending like hobbies or travel.
Adjust Retirement Goals. Divorce can impact your retirement timeline. Reevaluate your savings, especially if accounts were split, and consider whether to increase contributions or extend your retirement date.
Revisit Insurance Coverage. Update health, life, and disability insurance to ensure you’re fully protected.
Build an Emergency Fund. Start setting aside 3–6 months of essential expenses to cover unexpected costs. Even small contributions add up over time.
Step Three: Seek the Right Support
Managing finances solo can feel isolating, but you don’t have to go through it alone. Here’s how to find support:
Work with a Financial Professional. A Certified Financial Planner® can design a roadmap tailored to your new circumstances and goals. You don’t need all the answers—they’ll guide you.
Join a Support Group. Connect with other women who’ve been through divorce. They can offer insights, resources, and encouragement.
Lean on Trusted Friends or Family. Talking through your worries with someone who cares can bring clarity and comfort.
Sue’s Step Forward
When Sue first started rebuilding her financial independence, she felt like she was piecing together a puzzle without the picture on the box. But step by step, she gained clarity and confidence.
Together, we:
Organized her finances.
Adjusted her spending to match her new income.
Built a plan for her retirement goals.
And, most importantly, she found space in her budget for something she’d always wanted: a wine trip to Italy.
Now, Sue feels secure about her finances—and excited about her future.
If You’re Feeling Overwhelmed, You’re Not Alone
Life after divorce can feel like starting from scratch, but it’s also an opportunity to build something that’s truly yours.
💡 Start by taking one small step today. Whether it’s creating a budget, reviewing your retirement plan, or reaching out for help, every bit of progress matters.
Let’s Move Forward Together
If you’re navigating divorce or another major life transition, I’m here to help you regain control of your finances and rebuild your confidence.
Click here to schedule a free consultation.
Or, reply here with your biggest financial concern. Together, we’ll create a plan that feels right for you.
You Can Do This
Divorce is hard, AND it’s also a chance to discover just how resilient and capable you are.
Let’s take the first step toward your next chapter—one filled with confidence and security.
With Warmth & Strength,
~Jess
P.S. Know someone else going through this? Share this newsletter with them—it might be the encouragement they need today. 🙏
Whenever you’re ready, there are 3 ways I can help you!
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