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Being Retired but Wanting a Divorce: Understanding the Impact on Your Benefits

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Navigating Divorce Can Be Challenging

Learn the implications of getting a divorce while being retired. Choose from any of the topics below.

  • Considering a Divorce During Retirement?
  • Social Security Benefits
  • Pension Benefits 
  • Other Assets
  • How Can I Keep My Retirement Benefits When I Divorce?
  • Speak With a Legal Paraprofessional Regarding a Divorce

Considering a Divorce During Retirement?

Retirement is often viewed as a time to relax and enjoy the fruits of one’s labor. However, for some individuals, it may also be a time of transition and change, such as the decision to divorce

Divorce can significantly impact one’s retirement benefits and financial security, especially for those who are already retired.

In this article, we will discuss the impact of divorce on retirement benefits, including Social Security, pensions, and other assets.

Social Security Benefits

Social Security benefits are a crucial source of income for many retirees. However, divorce can affect an individual’s eligibility for Social Security benefits and the number of benefits they receive.

  • Eligibility: An individual who is divorced may still be eligible for Social Security benefits based on their own work record, or they may be eligible for benefits based on their former spouse’s work record. The eligibility for benefits based on a former spouse’s work record is only available if the marriage lasted at least 10 years.
  • Amount of Benefits: The number of benefits an individual receives may be affected by divorce. If an individual is eligible for benefits based on their own work record, their earnings history will determine the number of benefits. If an individual is eligible for benefits based on their former spouse’s work record, their earnings history will determine the number of benefits.

 

Pension Benefits

Pensions are another vital source of income for retirees. However, divorce can also have a significant impact on pension benefits.

  • Qualified Domestic Relations Order (QDRO): A Qualified Domestic Relations Order (QDRO) is a legal order that is used to divide a pension in a divorce. A QDRO is used to divide a pension plan covered by the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA), and it typically requires the plan administrator’s approval. The QDRO is a separate document from the divorce decree and must meet specific requirements to be valid.
  • Impact on Benefits: The impact of a QDRO on pension benefits will depend on the specific terms of the order and the type of pension plan. For example, a QDRO may provide for a lump-sum distribution or a specific percentage of the benefits to be paid to the former spouse.

Other Assets

Divorce can also impact other assets, such as retirement accounts, investment portfolios, and real estate.

  • Retirement Accounts: Retirement accounts, such as 401(k) plans and IRAs, can be divided in a divorce. The process for dividing these assets will depend on the type of account and the specific terms of the divorce settlement.
  • Investment Portfolios: Investment portfolios, such as stocks and mutual funds, can also be divided in a divorce. The process for dividing these assets will depend on the specific terms of the divorce settlement.
  • Real Estate: Real estates, such as a primary residence or vacation home, can also be divided in a divorce. The process for dividing these assets will depend on the specific terms of the divorce settlement.

 

Additional Helpful Resources

  • Social Security Administration: The Social Security Administration provides information and resources on Social Security benefits, including information on eligibility and the impact of divorce.
  • Pension Rights Center: The Pension Rights Center provides information and resources on pension benefits, including information on Qualified Domestic Relations Orders (QDROs) and the impact of divorce.
  • American Bar Association: The American Bar Association provides information and resources on the legal aspects of divorce, including information on dividing

How Can I Keep My Retirement Benefits When I Divorce?

When it comes to divorce and retirement benefits, it is essential to understand how the law applies to your situation. You should consult a legal professional or financial advisor to protect your rights.

Generally speaking, you can keep your retirement benefits when you divorce if they were acquired during the marriage.

The court may order that the benefits be divided between the two spouses, depending on state laws. Additionally, you may also be entitled to a portion of your spouse’s retirement benefits depending on their age and other factors.

Lastly, make sure to keep records of all pension plans and investments in case they need to be used as evidence in court. Taking these steps allows you to maintain ownership of your retirement benefits after a divorce.

Tip: If you seek information about a divorce, consider using a much more affordable alternative to a family lawyer and speak with a legal paraprofessional.

 

Stephanie Villalobos, LP

A step that can be taken if you see yourself wanting a divorce is to contact an experienced divorce paraprofessional at De Novo Law. The team of legal paraprofessionals will be able to concentrate on the case at hand so that you can easily make significant decisions concerning your divorce and retirement benefits.

Call us today at 480-725-2200 to schedule your consultation.

Affordable and Experienced Family Law Legal Services
Schedule an Appointment Today!

DISCLAIMER: The content of this site is for informational purposes only and is not intended to provide legal advice.  De Novo Law, LLC and its Legal Paraprofessionals are not attorneys and are not authorized to provide legal advice or representation beyond the areas and scope of practice for which license is held.  The transmission or receipt of any electronic correspondence or information does not create a legal paraprofessional-client relationship.

CONTACT US

Contact De Novo Law at any time to setup a free one-on-one consultation so we can discuss your concerns.

Please Call Us at (480) 725-2200 or Fill Out the Form Below to Schedule a FREE Initial Consultation with an Affordable Legal Paraprofessional to Assist with an Arizona Divorce or other Family Law Matters.

De Novo Law Blog

Grey Divorce is Becoming More Common in Arizona

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What Does a Gray Divorce Mean?

A “Gray Divorce” is a term used to describe divorces among couples aged 50 and older. This type of divorce has increased by over 50% since the 1990s and is becoming increasingly common as baby boomers enter their retirement years.

Gray Divorces typically occurs after one or both spouses have been married for at least two decades and are often linked to changing financial circumstances, a shift in priorities, or a lack of emotional connection between the couple.

Many couples going through a Gray Divorce face unique challenges compared to younger couples, such as dividing assets accumulated over many years or re-entering the workforce after an extended absence.

With more people living longer and healthier lives, Gray Divorce will likely become even more prevalent in the coming years.

Continue reading to learn more about gray divorce and the differences, challenges, and potential outcomes.

 

So Why is ‘Gray Divorce’ Becoming More Common Now?

Gray divorce is becoming more common due to a variety of factors. Today’s couples are living longer, healthier lives and are more likely to stay married for longer periods of time. This means that when they finally decide to separate, they have had many years together and may be at the point in their relationship where it is simply too difficult to continue.

Additionally, increased financial independence among women means that there may be fewer incentives for them to stay in an unhappy marriage. Furthermore, societal norms have shifted over time, with divorce becoming more socially acceptable than it was in the past.

Finally, changes in laws surrounding divorce have made it easier for couples to move on from their relationships without facing as much stigma or financial burden as before.

All of these factors contribute to why gray divorce is becoming more common now.

Older couple considering how to file for gray divorce and using a legal paraprofessional


 

What are the Common Consequences of a Gray Divorce?

While each individual situation is unique, there are some common consequences that those involved in a gray divorce in Arizona may experience.

These can include financial destabilization due to having to divide assets and retirement plans, feelings of guilt or shame due to ending a long relationship, difficulty adjusting to single life after so many years together, and strained relationships with adult children who may be conflicted about their parents’ decision.

There is also the potential for depression or anxiety due to the new reality of being single after decades in a marriage.

Gray divorcees must learn how to cope with these complex emotions and adjust to their new lives.

How Can You Prepare for a Gray Divorce?

Preparing for a gray divorce in Arizona can be difficult, but it is important to take the time to do so.

First, it is important to understand what kind of financial situation you will be in after the divorce. This includes understanding how property division, child support, if applicable, and alimony payments may affect your finances. It is also important to create an inventory of all joint assets and debts that must be divided.

Seeking advice from a financial advisor or legal paraprofessional can help you understand the legal implications of a gray divorce and what steps you need to take to protect your rights and interests.

Finally, make sure to take care of yourself emotionally during this process by talking with family members or friends who are supportive and understanding about your situation. Doing so will ensure that you are emotionally ready for this transition and have the resources available to move forward successfully.

How Can You Protect Your Pension When Divorcing?

When divorcing, it is important to protect your pension. One way to do this is to seek legal advice and ensure that you understand the distribution of assets between yourself and your spouse. You should also ensure that both parties correctly document and sign any agreement regarding the division of pensions.

Additionally, you should keep all financial documents related to your pension in a secure place, such as a safe deposit box or other secure storage solution.

Finally, discussing the options with a financial adviser who can help you determine how best to protect your pension interests in the event of a divorce may be beneficial.

Tip: If you are seeking information about a gray divorce without a lawyer, consider using a much more affordable alternative to a divorce lawyer and speak with a legal paraprofessional.

Property division and splitting social security benefits and retirement funds

How Does Getting Divorced Affect Social Security Limits?

Getting divorced can affect Social Security limits in Arizona. Depending on the circumstances, one spouse may be eligible to receive benefits from their former spouse’s account, even if they are no longer married. This is known as a “former spousal” benefit.

To qualify for this type of benefit, the couple must have been married for at least 10 years, the applicant must be unmarried at the time of application, and both parties must have been eligible for Social Security benefits. Additionally, applicants must be at least 62 years old and meet other eligibility requirements to receive any payments from their former spouse’s account.

It is important to note that these benefits do not replace those earned by working; they are supplemental income available through Social Security.

How Does Divorce Affect Your Life Insurance?

In Arizona, divorce can have a significant impact on your life insurance. Understanding how the divorce process impacts your existing policies and any new life insurance you may be considering is important.

When divorcing, both parties must review their existing policies to determine if changes need to be made or if the policies should remain in place. Suppose one party has a policy that names the other as a beneficiary. In that case, it is important to update these details to ensure that the intended beneficiaries are still receiving the benefits after the divorce is finalized.

Additionally, consider taking out new life insurance policies or updating existing ones depending on each person’s financial situation after the divorce.

Stephanie Villalobos, LP

A step that can be taken if you see yourself facing a grey divorce is to contact an experienced divorce paraprofessional at De Novo Law. The team of legal paraprofessionals will be able to concentrate on the case at hand so that you can easily make major decisions concerning custody arrangements.

Call us today at 480-725-2200 to schedule your consultation.

Affordable and Experienced Family Law Legal Services
Schedule an Appointment Today!

DISCLAIMER: The content of this site is for informational purposes only and is not intended to provide legal advice.  De Novo Law, LLC and its Legal Paraprofessionals are not attorneys and are not authorized to provide legal advice or representation beyond the areas and scope of practice for which license is held.  The transmission or receipt of any electronic correspondence or information does not create a legal paraprofessional-client relationship.

CONTACT US

Contact De Novo Law at any time to setup a free one-on-one consultation so we can discuss your concerns.

Please Call Us at (480) 725-2200 or Fill Out the Form Below to Schedule a FREE Initial Consultation with an Affordable Legal Paraprofessional to Assist with an Arizona Divorce or other Family Law Matters.