Before you decide if you should connect with a CDFA®…you might want to know what that actually is – because in the financial industry, specific divorce services are relatively new.
If you want the “internet-speak” of what a CDFA® is, here you go:
Certified Divorce Financial Analysts (CDFA) help people going through a divorce (and their lawyers) understand how their financial decisions will impact their future finances. This credential is issued and overseen by the Institute for Divorce Financial Analysts (IDFA), which has been around since 1993 and offers specialized training to accounting, financial, and legal professionals in pre-divorce financial planning. (Source)
But what does that actually mean???
In the financial world, you’ve probably heard of a CFP or Certified Financial Planner. These advisors have a broad expertise across all facets of financial planning.
A CDFA® has specialized training in the financial and tax aspects of divorce – which means we’re the professionals you should call if you’re even thinking about separating from your spouse.
Here’s what you can expect.
During the initial meeting we’ll discuss your family situation and where you are in the divorce process. We will also discuss other divorce professionals that might need to be involved (such as an attorney, mediator, etc.).
We’ll talk about how involved you’ve been in your family finances in the past. (Remember that it’s okay if you haven’t been the one in control – we’re working together on this and I’m here to support you.) At this point we’ll come up with a gameplan for gathering documents and outline steps that need to be taken. We will also go over expectations and the timeline of events.
Timing is EVERYTHING
I can’t stress this enough: Before you even mention the word “divorce” to your spouse, you need to contact a CDFA®. Once the wheels are in motion, some people can get very territorial about finances; accounts can get drained or frozen. It’s better to have as much as possible in place before you start down this path.
Dealing with finances on a GOOD day can be stressful. Understanding your financial situation as you move through a divorce can compound that stress. I’m here because I have your best interests at heart, and I want to take some of that burden from you.
I’m in your corner.