Financial Planning When Deciding to Remarry

Life after divorce often brings healing, personal growth, and fresh starts. For many, this includes the exciting prospect of remarriage. While beginning a new chapter with a new partner is a cause for celebration, it’s also a time for careful planning, especially if you have ongoing obligations from a previous marriage.

Throughout Florida, remarrying can affect divorce agreements, child support, spousal support, and more. Understanding the impacts ahead of time can help you avoid unnecessary complications. Before walking down the aisle again, speak with an experienced West Palm Beach family attorney to ensure you’re making informed decisions that support both your current happiness and your future security.

How Remarriage Can Affect Spousal Support

One of the most significant areas affected by remarriage is alimony, which is sometimes referred to as spousal support. Under Florida law, if the spouse receiving alimony remarries, alimony may be terminated. This can happen automatically or through a court-approved modification requested by the paying party.

If you’re receiving alimony and are considering remarriage or even cohabitation, it’s wise to consult with a family lawyer in advance. A review of your divorce decree and the type of alimony awarded can help you understand what could change and when.

Also, it’s important to note that even if you’re the one who is paying alimony, remarriage can still impact your financial picture. This may prompt a review of obligations, especially if your new marriage leads to a substantial change in income or expenses.

Children and Planning Steps to Take

While child support generally does not end upon remarriage, a new spouse’s income may become a factor in rare situations, such as when you seek a child support modification or are involved in a custody dispute. Or if the remarriage changes your living situation significantly (e.g., you’re moving to a different city or state), it could impact existing custody or time-sharing agreements.

Judges always look to the best interests of the child when evaluating custody modifications. If remarriage results in a household change that disrupts established routines or schooling, you may need court approval for modifications.

Before you remarry, it’s essential to:

• Review your prior divorce agreements and understand which terms could be impacted by remarriage.
• Update your estate plan, including wills, powers of attorney, and beneficiary designations.
• Consider life insurance needs, especially if you’re paying or receiving alimony or child support.
• Have open financial discussions with your future spouse to align goals and avoid surprises.

For some couples, establishing a prenuptial agreement is a smart move before entering a second (or third) marriage. A prenup allows both parties to define how finances will be handled in the marriage and what will happen in the event of a divorce or death. Talk to a West Palm Beach family attorney to determine if a prenup makes sense for you.

Are you excited to get married again? Remarrying is a big decision, and while the emotional side is exciting, the legal and financial aspects deserve careful attention. Have a conversation with the family lawyers at Bruce S. Rosenwater & Associates to have your situation reviewed. Schedule your confidential consultation today.