Prenuptial agreements used to be relatively taboo. They were often perceived as a safeguard against so-called “gold diggers” and were therefore avoided by couples who believed that their unions would withstand the tests of time. However, prenuptial agreements are now generally considered to be an intelligent legal tool used to both strengthen marriages and protect both parties in the event that an unexpected divorce does occur for any reason.

Similarly, it used to be considered taboo to stash away funds in case of divorce. However, more and more women especially are choosing to save a certain amount of income in an “emergency fund” that can be used in the unforeseen event of divorce. Rather than negating the strength of a marriage, these funds are constructed in order to ensure that a self-respecting individual remains financially stable should his or her marriage suddenly and unexpectedly take an irreversible turn for the worse.

Divorce can be expensive and draining. It is also no secret that many individuals do not see their divorces coming. Therefore, this kind of fund can be beneficial. But an emergency fund can also make some people feel burdened with a sort of guilt.

Only you can decide whether it makes sense for you to save a certain amount in case of divorce. Perhaps this is a healthy option for you and perhaps it is something you just cannot bring yourself to do. Whatever makes sense to you is what is important. Either way you choose to approach the concept of an emergency fund, please know that there is no shame in either approach as long as it is one that is healthy for you.

Source: Madame Noire, “Should Married Women Have A Separate “In Case Of Divorce” Emergency Fund?” Tanvier Peart, March 31, 2015