Why a Postnuptial Agreement Is Crucial for Any Marriage

While movies and TV shows have made “prenuptial agreements” a household term, many people don’t know that you can create a nearly identical agreement after you’ve said your vows.

A postnuptial agreement is a similar contract that breaks down who gets what in the case of a divorce; its only difference from a prenup is the time at which you create it. Here’s why a postnuptial agreement is crucial for any marriage.

Promotes Honest Communication

It’s hard to talk about financial issues. They can make you feel embarrassed, but there’s no cause for shame. Honesty and communication are the keys to a happy marriage, so starting with a postnuptial agreement ensures cooperation and discussion from the start. Broaching sensitive topics is tricky, but a postnuptial agreement gives you a reason to open up.

Encourages Thoughtful Spending

One of the biggest potential conflicts in a marriage is a difference in financial philosophies. If one spouse stays frugal while the other splurges, a frank and uncomfortable conversation is all but guaranteed. A postnuptial agreement requires spouses to talk about money before any of these issues come up, which can help couples spot areas of conflict before they get out of control.