Paths Through Divorce (2/7): Money Talks for Married Couples

Paths Through Divorce: Money Talks For Married Couples

Financial advisor and Certified Divorce Financial Analyst Kathy Costas explains that many married couples rarely discuss their “money story,” even though each partner brings a preexisting relationship with money shaped by upbringing, scarcity or abundance, spending habits, debt, and past financial setbacks. She says these differences often surface at inflection points like paying for children’s college, deciding when and how to retire, managing the shift from saving to spending, or handling an inheritance and related estate planning. Costas notes financial stress is a major cause of divorce and argues couples should have these conversations early with a trusted advisor to find common ground, align risk attitudes, and then address practical planning items such as Social Security, estate plan updates, and long-term care. She also emphasizes educating the less-involved spouse to prepare for potential widowhood and future decision-making.

00:00 Money Story Kickoff

00:51 Your Money Upbringing

01:42 Inflection Points Trigger Talks

01:51 College Funding Clash

03:05 Retirement Anxiety

04:05 Inheritance And Estate Plans

04:33 Finding Common Ground

04:57 Plan Nuts And Bolts

05:12 Shared Financial Literacy

05:42 Why It Matters

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