Roses Are Still Red: Finding Financial Clarity After Divorce

By Angela Grannan on February 11, 2026

For many people, February is about celebrating love. But if you’re newly divorced (or still in the thick of it), this month may feel heavy or complicated. You might be moving through a mix of grief, relief, and uncertainty, and it’s completely okay to feel all of it.

Divorce reshapes your emotional and financial life, often faster than you expect. And while the transition can be overwhelming, it can also be a meaningful moment to pause, take ownership of your finances, and begin laying the groundwork for your next chapter. It’s important to remember that you are not alone in this process. Your advisors, CPA, attorney, and personal support network are here to walk with you as you rebuild, reorganize, and regain your footing.

Here’s how to get started.

Assemble your team

This is so important. These people are there to help you and lift you up, so put together a team with knowledge and empathy who are on your side–divorce attorney, certified divorce financial analyst, financial advisor, CPA, child and individual therapist, etc. Don’t forget to lean on friends and family, too. They know you best and can provide a shoulder to cry on and a reality check when you need one.[1] 

Build a new budget

It is very likely that your income will drop after a divorce. The average drop is 41% for women and 23% for men.[2]  Therefore, it is essential that you develop a new budget based on your needs, not your wants. Your financial advisor can provide you with a very detailed list of potential expenses. Your expenses need to stay within your post-divorce income. Now would be a good time to lean on a family member or friend. Have them review your budget to ensure you haven’t missed anything and to provide a reality check on your expenses.[3] 

Once you build a budget, it will probably become clear whether you can afford to stay in the family home. This is a difficult decision. We all have emotional ties to our home, especially when younger children are involved. But you must consider all the expenses related to the home–mortgage, insurance, taxes, upkeep, etc., and how these expenses match up against your post-divorce budget. This is another opportunity to lean on your team. Review the numbers with your financial advisor and make a decision that makes the most financial sense.[4] 

Know what you own and what you owe

Make a list of all of your assets, their value, and how they are titled.  Be sure to review the beneficiary designations to ensure they have been updated appropriately. Make sure you have a comprehensive list of all your account logins and passwords. Do the same exercise for your liabilities. All of this information will help you and your financial advisor develop a long-term financial plan. [5]

Update estate planning documents

Be sure to update beneficiary, successor trustee, POA, etc., designations on insurance policies and estate planning documents.   This will ensure that your assets are distributed according to your wishes.  

Divorce is stressful.  It is important to know that there are people out there who want to help you navigate this difficult time.  Assemble a good team and lean on friends and family!  Getting on the right path financially is both a math problem and a mindset.  If you would like help getting started, please reach out to your financial advisor or Kristin Donnelly, Certified Divorce Financial Analyst.

[1]How to Recover Financially After a Divorce? 7 Ways to Recover Fast

[2] Rebuilding Wealth After Divorce: A Complete Guide to Your Financial Fresh Start

[3] How to Recover Financially After a Divorce? 7 Ways to Recover Fast

[4] How to Recover Financially After a Divorce? 7 Ways to Recover Fast

[5] Starting Over Financially After Divorce: Practical Advice and Tips – Jen Hatmaker