If you’re about to file for divorce or are already in the process, you are aware of the fact that virtually every aspect of your life is about to change – and it’s happening fast. When you become a single mom in the near future, you may be going back to school or work, or adjusting to supporting yourself and your children. Surely, you’re going to be confronted with new questions and challenges to overcome.
As you sit down with your spouse and your divorce attorney, take these things into consideration, or simply make mental notes so you can start making plans for your future.
The Marital Home
Perhaps you’ve raised your children in the marital home and the
last thing you can imagine is moving out and downsizing. You may want
nothing more than to stay in the home, but maybe you can’t afford
to stay. Ask yourself the following:
- Can I afford the house?
- Can I afford to maintain the home?
- Can I qualify for a mortgage using my income and credit alone?
- Where will my ex live? If it’s too far from the kids, should we ensure that we are closer to each other?
Spousal Support or Alimony
If your ex is to pay
child support, the amount he pays will be based on his income. Spousal support or alimony
is another story. Unlike child support, it’s not automatic. Often,
spousal support comes down to your income and earning ability, the length
of the marriage, your ex’s income, and your ex’s ability to
pay spousal support.
Even if you are eligible for child support and spousal support, what would happen if your ex didn’t make one or both payments? What if he lost his job? Unfortunately, some exes are not consistent when it comes to their obligations.
As a single mom, be sure to create your own source of income and start saving. Regardless of your ex’s obligations toward you, you want a cushion. If you don’t have a job, you should find ways to earn money. If you are employed, you can ask for a promotion, find extra work, or even work a second job if it will improve your financial health. Most single mothers will attest that it’s not fun relying on their ex for survival.
On the other hand, perhaps you’re the breadwinner. Perhaps you’ll be paying your ex-husband spousal support. While it’s less common, it does happen. If you’re wondering if you’ll be paying spousal support, talk to a divorce attorney to understand what your future obligations will look like post-divorce.
At Cairns Law Offices, we help people obtain cheap, no-fault divorces in Pennsylvania. If you’re looking for divorce representation, contact us today!
