How To Separate Your Finances After a Breakup
Written by
Cindy Lamothe
Edited by
Amen Oyiboke
Commitment to Our Readers
GOBankingRates' editorial team is committed to bringing you unbiased reviews and information. We use data-driven methodologies to evaluate financial products and services - our reviews and ratings are not influenced by advertisers. You can read more about our editorial guidelines and our products and services review methodology.
20 Years
Helping You Live Richer
Reviewed
by Experts
Trusted by
Millions of Readers
Breakups are a deeply emotional time, especially if you’ve been together for a long time. The added stress of separating your finances can also feel messy, if not managed right. Thankfully, experts say it’s possible to do so effectively.
“Separating finances after a breakup requires a systematic and strategic approach to protect financial health and prevent potential future complications,” said Kevin Shahnazari, founder and CEO of FinlyWealth.
Andrew Gosselin, CPA and senior contributor at Coupon Mister, agreed. “Separating finances after a breakup or divorce can feel like wading through a complicated maze, but with some focus and practical steps, it doesn’t have to be overwhelming.”
The goal, he explained, is to untangle everything, protect your financial future, and move forward without unnecessary complications.
Here are the best ways to go about separating your finances after a breakup.
Conduct a Financial Audit of All Accounts
The first critical step, according to Shahnazari, is conducting a comprehensive audit of all shared financial accounts, including joint bank accounts, credit cards, loans, and investment portfolios.
“This means obtaining complete statements and understanding each account’s current balance and liability structure,” he said.
Gosselin recommended starting by getting everything in one place.”Write down all the bank accounts, credit cards, loans, property, investments, and anything else tied to both of you.
“If there’s a home, figure out its value and the remaining mortgage. Include cars, valuable items, or even smaller shared things like electronics or furniture. Having this list helps you see the full picture and ensures nothing gets overlooked.”
Remove Your Former Partner On Access to Your Accounts
“Immediate action should focus on removing your former partner’s authorized access to your accounts,” said Shahnazari. This involves contacting banks to revoke joint account access, updating all passwords, and establishing new individual accounts.
“For credit cards with shared authorization, request the credit card company to close joint accounts and open individual lines of credit.” He said this prevents potential unauthorized transactions and protects your credit score.
Prioritize Debt Allocation
Shahnazari explained that debt allocation becomes a crucial consideration during financial separation. “If there are joint debts, such as mortgages or personal loans, you’ll need a clear strategy for division.”
He noted this might involve refinancing existing debt, negotiating buyout terms, or developing a structured repayment plan that delineates each party’s responsibilities.
“Professional mediation or legal consultation can be instrumental in creating fair and legally binding debt separation agreements,” said Shahnazari.
For shared debts, Gosselin recommended deciding who takes responsibility. “Maybe one person keeps the car and agrees to handle the loan, or you sell the car and use the proceeds to clear the debt. The idea is to leave no shared liabilities hanging over either of you.”
Protect Your Credit
“Protecting your credit is paramount during this process,” said Shahnazari. “I recommend obtaining a comprehensive credit report to identify all shared financial instruments and monitoring for any unexpected changes.”
Freezing joint credit lines and establishing individual credit can prevent potential financial vulnerabilities during this transitional period.
“Financial separation is not just a transaction, but an opportunity to reset and rebuild your financial foundation with clarity and strategic intention.”
Negotiate Investments or Retirement Funds
According to Gosselin, assets like investments or retirement funds require careful negotiation.
“If there’s an investment account worth $10,000, you could split it evenly or trade it for something of equal value, like a car or other property,” he said.
Seek Professional Assistance
If things get complicated, Gosselin said it’s worth involving a lawyer or mediator. “A lawyer can draft agreements to formalize what you’ve decided, while a mediator can help keep discussions fair and productive if emotions run high.”
These steps, he noted, ensure clarity and protect both parties from future disputes.
“Once you’ve reached an agreement, make it legally binding. This isn’t about mistrust — it’s about ensuring there’s no room for misinterpretation later.”
The process might feel slow and frustrating, but he observed that taking the time to address each piece carefully will save you from bigger problems down the road.
“It’s about being practical and methodical. By creating a clear financial break, you set yourself up for a fresh start, free from unresolved obligations or financial surprises. It’s not always easy, but it’s worth it to regain control and move forward with confidence.”
More From GOBankingRates
