HOW DO I GET MONEY AFTER I FILE FOR DIVORCE?

Filing for divorce is stressful enough without worrying about how you'll pay the bills in the months that follow. Many people assume they have to wait until the final settlement to see any money, but that's rarely the case. Courts understand that life doesn't pause during divorce proceedings, and there are several legitimate ways to access funds and support while your case is pending. Here's what you need to know. ## Temporary Orders Can Provide Immediate Relief One of the first things your attorney may do is request temporary orders from the court. These are interim rulings that address financial matters while the divorce is ongoing. Depending on your situation, a judge can order your spouse to contribute to household expenses, pay spousal support (sometimes called temporary maintenance), or cover attorney fees—especially if there's a significant imbalance in income between the two of you. Temporary support typically continues until the divorce is finalized or the orders are modified. If you were the lower-earning spouse or stayed home to raise children, this can be a financial lifeline. Don't assume you can't afford legal help; many family law attorneys offer initial consultations, and some jurisdictions have legal aid organizations for those with limited income. ## Accessing Shared and Joint Accounts If you and your spouse have joint accounts, you generally have a legal right to the money in them. However, this is an area where caution matters. Withdrawing modest amounts for legitimate living expenses—rent, groceries, utilities, childcare—is usually acceptable. Draining accounts out of spite or to hide assets, on the other hand, can backfire badly in court. Before the divorce becomes contentious, it's wise to: - Document all account balances with statements and screenshots - Withdraw enough to cover a reasonable period of living expenses - Open an individual account in your own name for incoming funds - Change direct deposit information for your paycheck - Notify your bank and monitor for unauthorized withdrawals Keep records of everything you spend and why. Judges look favorably on transparency and penalize those who try to hide or waste marital assets. ## Your Own Income and Assets Don't overlook the money that's already yours. If you work, your paycheck remains yours to use for necessities. If you have individual accounts, retirement funds from before the marriage, or personal property, you may be able to tap those resources—though check with your attorney first, since some withdrawals (particularly from retirement accounts) can carry tax consequences or affect the property division. If you're not employed and need income quickly, consider part-time or temporary work. Courts generally expect both spouses to take reasonable steps toward self-support, and earning income during the divorce can strengthen your position later. ### Selling Personal Property In some cases, selling personal items—such as a vehicle you no longer need, furniture, or jewelry—can generate short-term cash. Be careful here: anything acquired during the marriage may be considered marital property, and selling it without your spouse's knowledge or the court's blessing could create problems. If you go this route, disclose it and keep the proceeds traceable. ## Credit, Loans, and Lines of Credit If support orders are slow to arrive or your accounts are frozen, credit can bridge the gap. Options include a personal loan, a credit card in your own name, or borrowing from family. Before committing, weigh the risks carefully. Debt taken on during divorce may or may not be shared depending on your jurisdiction and the purpose of the borrowing, so use it for clear necessities and document everything. Avoid these common mistakes: - Running up joint credit cards, which can leave you liable for half the debt - Taking cash advances against marital assets without legal advice - Ignoring bills, which can damage your credit when you'll need it most ## Ask Your Attorney About Interim Relief Every divorce is different, and the right financial strategy depends on your state's laws, your income, and your spouse's cooperation. Your attorney can request expedited hearings, fee-shifting orders, or emergency relief if you're facing hardship. The most important thing is to act early, document everything, and be transparent with the court. Financial stability during divorce isn't guaranteed, but with the right steps, you don't have to wait until the final decree to regain control of your money. ## Related reading - [Understanding Prenuptial and Postnuptial Agreements: A Practical Guide for Couples](/blog/prenuptial-and-postnuptial-agreements) - [Can We Just Skip Christmas? How to Survive the Holiday Season Without Losing Your Mind](/blog/can-we-just-skip-christmas-four-tips-for-surviving-the-holiday-season) - [Should I Get a Prenup? A Practical Guide to Prenuptial Agreements](/blog/should-i-get-a-prenup) - [Remarriage and Military Retirement: Will Your New Marriage Affect the Benefits You Receive From Your Ex?](/blog/if-i-get-remarried-do-i-lose-military-retirement-benefits-from-my-ex) - [What Happens When My Ex Stops Paying? A Practical Guide to Child Support and Maintenance Issues](/blog/what-if-my-ex-stops-paying)