Divorce and Money for Women: How to Take Control of Your Finances Before, During and After the Split. 

Divorce can be financially terrifying—but it doesn’t have to be. Learn how to take control of your money before, during, and after divorce with smart tips, real resources, and empowering guidance from Purse Strings.

Hello, Club! It’s Erica here, host of The Crazy Ex Wives Club podcast, and today I want to expand on one of our juiciest, most important conversations to date—money, divorce, and, you guessed it, purse strings! Whether you’re just starting to wonder if “the D word” might be in your future, wading through paperwork, or already rebuilding, you’re in the right place. We’re talking mindset, resources, and practical steps—plus a bit of real talk and a lot of encouragement.

Let’s get empowered together!

Facing Finances With Courage: Why Money Is So Central

Money fears are front and center for nearly everyone considering or going through divorce. I get it—uncertainty about bills, budgets, and bank accounts can keep you awake at night. But here’s the truth: facing your finances head on, even if you’re terrified, is one of the most empowering things you’ll ever do.

Many women (myself included) get to adulthood without ever learning financial literacy. Whether we handed the reins over in partnership, or just never had reason to open our own credit card, so many of us are figuring it out on the fly. The good news? It’s NEVER too late to learn, organize, and take control.

Step One: Getting the Lay of the Land Before You Say the D Word

Maybe you’re unhappily married but not sure if divorce is in your future. Maybe you’re just tired of feeling in the dark about your own money. Here are smart, actionable tips to start with today:

• Know Where the Money Is: Review all income, outflow, savings, and debts. Where are your accounts? Whose name is on the house? Are there life insurance policies or hidden investments?
• Get It on Paper (or Computer!): Collect your financial paperwork—bank statements, mortgage docs, insurance, account logins. If it’s online, start gathering passwords.
• Use Secure Storage: Keep your info safe and accessible—a file in your personal email or even a flash drive.
• Download a Checklist: (We have a great freebie: “How to Prepare for Divorce Before You Mention the D Word”—grab it from our show notes or at crazyexwivesclub.com.)

Taking these steps gives you a full picture—so you can be proactive instead of panicked if things ever change.

When You’re In the Thick of Divorce: Bring In the Pros

Once you’re navigating split finances, the right professionals become key. Yep—sometimes your attorney isn’t enough!

Consider These Specialists:

• Certified Divorce Financial Analyst (CDFA): Specially trained to look at the long-term impact of dividing assets. They’ll catch tax pitfalls, project future costs, and make sure your settlement works BOTH now and later.
• Certified Divorce Lending Professional: If your divorce involves real estate, they’ll help document schooling, alimony, or child support as income—and keep you from becoming “house poor.”
• Reputable Resources Only! Don’t just Google. Find vetted pros (like at pursestrings.co) to ensure you’re getting expert, not influencer, advice.

Budgeting, Basements, and Breathing Room

Divorce almost always means doing more with less—but that doesn’t have to mean struggle forever.

Here’s how I approached it (mistakes and all):

• Find Your “Basement”: What’s the absolute minimum to cover food, housing, utilities, insurance, and survival—not Starbucks or “extras.” Knowing this number brings breathing room.
• Track What’s Coming In and Out: Regular budget check-ins help you plug “money leaks” and spot where to adjust.
• Emergency Fund = Non-Negotiable: Keep a stash (in a high-yield savings account if you can) for surprise bills—hot water heaters burst and cars break down!

Sometimes, renting for a season (instead of buying before you’re ready) is actually the smartest play—less stress, less cost, more freedom!

Don’t Rush—and Don’t Make it About “Winning”

It’s tempting to just “get it over with,” or to fight tooth and nail for what feels like a victory. But rushing leads to regrets. And trust me: nobody “wins” when the focus is on making the other lose.

• Take your time.
• Get support—emotional and professional.
• Focus on the future, not just today’s numbers or hurts.
• Let go of the idea that homeownership proves anything—peace and stability worth far more.

Let’s Keep the Conversation Going

You’re not alone. We’ve been there, and there’s an entire club rooting for you. Grab those checklists, check out Purse Strings’ resources, and remember—every step you take is a step toward more confidence and control.

If you haven’t yet, check out our episode with Dr. Barb Provost and Maggie Nielsen from Purse Strings—and don’t miss their podcast, “Women and Money: The Sh*t We Don’t Talk About,” for more candid wisdom. You’ve SO got this.

Until next time,
Erica

The Club: A Divorce Community to Help you Get Clear, Get Grounded and Move Forward. 

Psst… Have you heard? There is a new online space for you to get the support and guidance you need on your divorce journey. The Club is your space to heal, grow and get clear on what you want - whether you are unhappily married or taking those first steps through divorce. The Club offers on-demand programs, monthly live connection calls and a quarterly curated healing kit. Everything The Club offers helps you get clear and get confident on what you want in your next chapter. 

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Learn More About This Week’s Guest: Dr. Barbara Provost and Maggie Nielsen

Dr. Barbara Provost and Maggie Nielsen are a dynamic mother-daughter duo committed to empowering women with the tools they need to make confident financial decisions. As a consultant, educator, and entrepreneur, Barbara connects women with trusted financial professionals to help them plan for a future full of choices. Maggie, with her curious mindset and passion for personal growth, inspires others through motivational talks and equips women with the financial knowledge they need to thrive. Together, they are dedicated to helping women build lives free from financial stress thanks to the support of their community of trusted professionals.

Connect with Dr. Provost and Maggie

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pursestringsco/ 
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pursestringsco 
• TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@pursestringsco
• YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCusras98haVpJ-P4C4d4IXw 
• Website: www.pursestrings.co 

Looking for More Support? Let’s Connect

• Instagram: https://instagram.com/crazyexwivesclub 
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thecrazyexwivesclub
• Website: https://crazyexwivesclub.com 
• Contact: [email protected]
• Free 15 Minute Consult: https://calendly.com/ericabennett/15min