What Can I Sell to Pay for My Divorce?
Divorce can be a challenging legal matter and an emotionally taxing experience. If you think you may have to spend a lot of money on legal help, that only adds to your stress.
The good news is, there are ways to get this process done while being mindful of your total cost. If money is an object, consider whether you have any hidden treasures in your attic or other valuable assets you wouldn’t mind cashing in. In this article, we guide you through the process of turning material items into financial relief.
Divorce is expensive
Understanding the various costs you might incur during your divorce process is crucial for effective planning and budgeting. Here are some of the most common expenses associated with divorce:
Filing fees
When initiating a divorce, you'll need to pay a fee to file your case in court. Court filing fees vary depending on your jurisdiction and can range from $100 to $400. If the fee poses a hardship for you, however, you may qualify for a fee waiver.
Divorce attorney fees
Hiring an attorney to represent you during your divorce is often one of the most significant expenses. Most divorce lawyers charge a retainer fee, and even phone calls and emails with an attorney are subject to an hourly rate. Depending on your divorce case's complexity and the attorney's experience, fees can vary widely, from a few thousand dollars to tens of thousands or more.
If you can resolve contested issues and negotiate a settlement agreement with your spouse without much outside help, you may be eligible for an uncontested divorce – a far more affordable option than the legal process associated with a contested divorce.
Relocation costs
If you or your spouse decide to move out of the family home, there will likely be costs associated with finding a new place to live, such as deposits, moving expenses, and potentially even storage fees.
Mediation or counseling fees
Some couples opt to use mediation or counseling to help them navigate the divorce process more amicably. These services can be invaluable, but they come at an additional cost.
Miscellaneous expense
Divorce often involves various other expenses, such as hiring a financial planner, appraisers for property valuation, or even a private investigator.
Money-saving strategies
Given the potentially high costs associated with divorce, it's essential to explore money-saving strategies that can help ease the financial burden. Some options to consider include the following:
- Divorce loans: Some lenders offer specialized loans designed to cover divorce-related expenses. This option can provide immediate financial relief, but be sure to carefully consider interest rates and repayment terms.
- Working with legal aid: If you're unable to afford an attorney, you may qualify for free or low-cost legal assistance through a legal aid organization.
- Asking for filing fee waivers: As mentioned above, you might be eligible for a filing fee waiver based on your financial situation. Although a few hundred dollars may not seem like a lot of money, every dollar counts, especially when you have your next life chapter to think about. Check with your local court to see if you qualify.
- Working with Hello Divorce: Hello Divorce offers affordable online plans and mediation services that can help you navigate the divorce process without breaking the bank. Our streamlined approach enables you to control costs while still receiving valuable guidance and support.
Liquidating assets to pay for divorce
During a divorce, you may need to find creative ways to generate funds to cover your expenses.
Here are some items you might consider selling or liquidating, along with tips on how to do so and whether it's even possible:
Life insurance
If you have a life insurance policy with a cash value, you may be able to cash it out or take out a loan against the policy to cover your divorce expenses. Keep in mind that cashing out your policy may result in tax implications, and taking a loan against it could reduce the death benefit for your beneficiaries. Be sure to consult with a financial advisor before making any decisions.
Home
Your home can be a significant source of funds during a divorce. You might consider taking out an equity line of credit, which allows you to borrow against your home's value. Alternatively, you could sell your home and split the proceeds with your spouse, or you could rent out a room – or the entire property – to generate additional income. Each option has its pros and cons, so it's essential to weigh them carefully based on your circumstances. Be aware that you may need court approval to sell your home during divorce.
Car
If you have an old car you're not using, selling it can provide you with some much-needed cash. Services like Cash for Cars offer a convenient way to sell your vehicle, providing upfront payment and even handling the towing, if necessary. It’s a good idea to research the current market value of your car to make sure you're getting a fair price.
Jewelry
Selling old jewelry, including wedding rings, can be a practical way to raise funds during a divorce. Online platforms like Worthy specialize in helping people sell their valuable jewelry, offering a secure and hassle-free process. They'll appraise your items, provide a market value estimate, and even handle the sale on your behalf. Just remember that parting with sentimental items can be emotionally challenging, so be prepared for the emotional aspect of this decision as well.
Talk to us at Hello Divorce
Hello Divorce offers payment plans that make our services accessible to clients with varying financial situations. Our goal is to take the drama out of divorce, providing a streamlined and supportive online divorce approach that empowers you during this challenging time.
Don't hesitate. Seize the opportunity to gain valuable insights and explore the cost-effective flat-fee solutions Hello Divorce has to offer by scheduling your free 15-minute phone call today.
