How Financial Habits Differ Between Married and Divorced Individuals
Financial behavior often plays a meaningful role in the stability of long-term relationships. A survey conducted by Credit.com titled Marriage, Divorce & Credit examined how money management differs between married and divorced individuals. The survey gathered responses from 1,061 consumers, roughly evenly divided between those who were married and those who were divorced.
Participants came from a variety of financial, employment, racial, and educational backgrounds. While the survey was not intended to represent the entire U.S. population, it revealed several notable trends regarding money, credit, and communication within marriages and after divorce.
Financial Teamwork and Shared Responsibility
One of the most striking findings involved how couples approach financial decision-making. Only a small percentage of divorced respondents—about 5%—said that money alone caused their divorce. However, more than half indicated that financial differences played a role in the breakdown of the relationship.
Among married respondents, 54% reported that finances were handled as a shared responsibility. In contrast, only 28% of divorced respondents said that they made joint financial decisions while married. This disparity suggests that approaching finances as a collaborative effort may contribute to marital stability.
Credit Score Compatibility
The survey also examined credit score alignment between spouses. While it is common for one spouse to have a higher credit score than the other, married respondents were far more likely to report similar credit scores. About 51% of married participants said their credit score closely matched their spouse’s, compared to just 23% of divorced respondents when they were married.
This does not necessarily mean that married individuals have better credit overall. Instead, it suggests that financial compatibility—particularly in credit behavior—may play a role in relationship success or, conversely, contribute to marital strain.
Debt Brought Into the Marriage
When asked about the types of debt brought into marriage, both married and divorced respondents reported similar patterns. Common debts included credit cards, auto loans, student loans, mortgages, and medical debt. The primary differences appeared in the areas of medical debt and personal loans, where divorced respondents reported higher prevalence.
These findings underscore the importance of understanding not only the amount of debt each partner carries, but also the nature of that debt when entering a marriage.
Communication About Finances
Communication emerged as another key distinction. Approximately 22% of divorced respondents said they were unaware of their spouse’s credit score during the marriage, compared to 15% of married respondents. A lack of financial transparency can lead to misunderstandings and mistrust over time.
Open discussions about finances before and during marriage—including whether a prenuptial agreement may be appropriate—can help couples set expectations and avoid future conflict. Awareness, communication, and joint planning often serve as safeguards against financial disputes.
Financial Awareness During and After Divorce
Overall, the survey highlights the significant role that financial decisions play both during marriage and in divorce. Monitoring credit, managing debt, and protecting assets are critical not only during a divorce, but also before and after the process is complete.
If you are facing divorce and have concerns about your financial future, it is important to seek guidance early. At Stange Law Firm, PC, our attorneys help clients understand the financial implications of divorce and work to protect their long-term interests.
To discuss your situation, contact Stange Law Firm, PC at 855-805-0595 or reach out online to schedule a consultation.
