Although there can be clear signs that a relationship will or needs to end, most are not prepared to go through a dissolution. Family law experts from around the nation including those in the state of Illinois would agree that one imperative aspect in preparing for divorce is being well aware of how one’s life might change post separation. While it is certainly important to focus on the process itself as well including determining how to divide property, determine the complicated questions like child custody and other difficult issues, it is also just as necessary to consider how all this will impact one’s life after the dust clears.
One thing that might surprise many is the fact that auto insurers often charge married drivers less than single drivers. This can actually amount to quite a bit a year in savings. While the reasoning behind this policy is unclear, many are working to change the behavior.
Many same-sex couples, singles and a new federal agency are pushing individual states to examine the appropriateness of such behavior. The director of the federal insurance office indicates it is an issue of fundamental fairness.
Being fully aware of the potential life changes stemming from divorce can help minimize the difficult adjustments later and even ease the process of starting a single life. This preparation includes preparing a budget based off a single earner income in some situations to appreciate how finances might be affected. It is also important to consider how certain purported benefits to marriage like filing joint taxes or even applying for auto insurance will change.
Being aware of the law and how company policies might impact one’s new single life is helpful in easing the process of change. Gaining advice about the divorce process as well as how the individual’s future will be impacted is important for those seeking or going through the divorce. This could improve their decision-making process and ease the emotions and issues associated with a divorce.
Source: The Wall Street Journal, “Auto Insurers’ Marriage Discount Faces Scrutiny,” Leslie Scism, Feb. 10, 2014.