What happens to my retirement in a divorce?

What happens to my retirement in a divorce?

Divorce is one of the times you can access your IRA or 401(k) before retirement and pay no tax. This happens if the judge assigns part of your account to your spouse in the divorce settlement. You spouse may receive some, all or none of your retirement account, depending on your situation.

How do I protect my retirement assets from divorce?

Protecting Your Money in a DivorceHire an experienced divorce attorney. Ideally, this person will emphasize mediation or collaborative divorce over litigation. Open accounts in your name only. Sort out mortgage and rent payments. Be prepared to share retirement accounts.

Does my wife get half my 401k divorce?

Any funds contributed to the 401(k) account during the marriage are marital property and subject to division during the divorce, unless there is a valid prenuptial agreement in place. For example, if your spouse also has a retirement account worth a similar amount, you may each decide to keep your own accounts.