💳 Joint Account vs. Authorized User: What Every Divorcing Spouse Should Know When you’re married, sharing finances is common. But not all “shared” accounts are created equal.The difference between a joint account  and being an authorized user  on a credit card can have major consequences during and after divorce. Here’s what you need to know to protect yourself, your credit, and your financial future. 💳 1. The Basics: Authorized User vs. Joint Account Authorized User: An au

Clarity Financial Wellness founder Stephanie Daukus, MBA, earns the Certified Divorce Financial Analyst® credential, expanding her ability to help clients navigate divorce finances with clarity and confidence.

If your spouse controls all the money, you may feel trapped. Maybe you don’t have access to funds without him knowing. Maybe they've already cut you off after filing for divorce. Or maybe you’re worried they'll accuse you of “spending my money” or say, “If you hire a lawyer, you’ll have to pay for it yourself.” Here’s the truth: you are not stuck. If you’re thinking about filing , there are practical steps you can take right now to set yourself up for success. If you’ve alrea

For many couples, the family home is the largest - and most emotional - asset. When divorce happens, one of the first big questions is: Should I keep the house? The Main Options 1. Sell the Home and Split the Proceeds This is often the cleanest approach. You each walk away with your share of the equity and can start fresh. But selling isn’t always simple - you’ll need to consider real estate commissions, closing costs, possible capital gains taxes, and whether you’re in a pos